After years of doing private performances with her family, Tina Sugandh is releasing her first debut album TablaGirl in January next year. Already her single Break Me is heating up the charts. Tina, who was busy with day jobs while growing up, recalls how her parents would organise “musical weekends” for her. “If you stood in the middle of my house during my childhood, you would hear complete chaos because my mom and dad, my sister and I would be in four different rooms singing four completely different songs!” While she admits people are still surprised to see a woman behind the tabla, considered a predominantly male instrument, Tina believes her endeavours have inspired many girls to give the instrument a shot. “I remember always getting a few doubtful looks as I would sit behind the tabla because I was so tiny!” Writing her own lyrics and melodies, Tina took three years to complete her debut album. Synthesising ghazal, qawwali and bhangra with western influences, she has created a sound that’s entirely her own. “I want the tabla to become as mainstream as the congas,” she says passionately. A feat this striking musician is sure to achieve.

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