CHANDRA FINDS HER LIGHT IN “THE SUN”
Chandra, a 22-year-old R&B and neo-soul singer originally from the Chicago suburbs and now based in New York City, is a rising artist to watch in 2025. Her sound is both innovative and comforting, drawing on influences from her classical Indian training, spiritual practice, and a deep connection to neo-soul.
From the age of four, Chandra trained in Indian classical music, laying the foundation for her musical journey. While attending high school, she joined a band called 48 Under, igniting her decision to pursue music more seriously. After moving to New York to study at Columbia University—where she is now a senior—Chandra has continued to evolve as an artist, skillfully balancing her academics with her passion for creating music. “The dream for me is just to live a life that feels true to me,” she shares, reflecting on her goal to remain grounded and authentic as she looks ahead to life after college.
In 2024, Chandra’s music gained widespread recognition when she won Columbia University’s annual Battle of the Bands, which earned her a spot opening for J.I.D and AG Club at Bacchanal, the university’s spring concert. “J.I.D is a legend,” she recalls. Preparing for the performance proved to be a transformative experience. “Performing for Battle of the Bands meant taking all the demos I had and arranging them with a full band setup,” she explains. “It helped me learn so much about communicating with musicians and bringing the music I created in my bedroom to life. It was just so sweet, and all my friends showing up made it even better.”
Chandra’s music blends influences from a wide range of genres. “I’ve always been drawn to melody,” she explains, referencing her background in Carnatic music, which is melody-driven rather than harmony-driven. Her love for R&B, especially artists like Brandy, Jhené Aiko, and Erykah Badu, has shaped her sound, while elements of Joni Mitchell also make their way into her compositions. “I think my music feels equal parts dreamy and groovy,” she says, citing her evolving style, which has grown alongside her journey as an artist.
“The Sun,” the lead track from her debut EP, released on January 24, 2025, encapsulates Chandra’s musical evolution. Written two years ago, the song explores the idea of slowing down and embracing a warm, overwhelming love. “I’m an overthinker, so this song was really about taking a step back and embracing love in its simplest form,” she explains. With “The Sun” setting the tone, her debut EP delves into themes of trust, self-acceptance, and emotional connection, all wrapped in her signature dreamy, soulful sound.
For Chandra, this is just the beginning. With her debut single out and a full EP on the horizon, she’s eager to share more of her music with the world. “I’m just enjoying the process and staying true to who I am,” she says. Be sure to check out “The Sun,” available now on all streaming platforms, and keep an eye out for Chandra’s upcoming releases.