AP Dhillon, born Amritpal Singh Dhillon, is a name that resonates with millions across the globe, particularly within the Punjabi music scene. An Indo-Canadian rapper, singer, and record producer, AP Dhillon has taken the world by storm with his chart-topping singles like “Majhail” and “Brown Munde.” His journey from a small village in Punjab to performing on international stages is nothing short of remarkable.
AP Dhillon’s rise to stardom is a testament to his passion, perseverance, and an unyielding belief in his dreams. His story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring artists everywhere, showing that no matter where you come from, talent and determination can propel you to unimaginable heights.
AP Dhillon: Early Life and Roots in Punjab
Amritpal Singh Dhillon was born in Mullianwal, a small village in the Gurdaspur district of Punjab, India. Raised in a Sikh family, AP Dhillon’s early years were grounded in the values of hard work, community, and resilience. He attended Little Flower Convent School before pursuing Civil Engineering at Baba Kuma Singh Ji Engineering College in Amritsar.
Like many immigrants, AP Dhillon sought better opportunities abroad, which led him to Canada. Once in British Columbia, he completed a Diploma in Business Administration and Management from Camosun College in Saanich.
While his academic journey might suggest a conventional path, fate had other plans for AP Dhillon. Like many young people, he worked at a retail store – Best Buy – before taking the brave leap into the music world. His passion for music was always present, but it took courage to turn that passion into a career.
The Beginning of a Revolutionary Career
AP Dhillon’s musical journey began in 2019 when he released his debut single, “Fake,” alongside Shinda Kahlon under their independent label, Run-Up Records. It was an uncertain start, but the fire in him burned brightly. His collaboration with Gurinder Gill and Shinda Kahlon on the track “Faraar” further established him in the Punjabi music industry.
His breakthrough came in 2020 with the release of “Deadly,” a track produced by Gminxr that soared to number 11 on the UK Asian chart. Following this, Dhillon teamed up with Gurinder Gill on “Droptop,” further solidifying his presence in the UK’s music scene. The success of these tracks laid the foundation for what would soon become a meteoric rise.
However, it was the song “Majhail,” a collaboration with Gurinder Gill and Manni Sandhu, that catapulted AP Dhillon into the global spotlight. The track not only topped the UK Asian and Punjabi charts but became an anthem for Punjabi music lovers worldwide. This was quickly followed by “Excuses,” a collaboration with Intense, which further elevated his status as a leading artist in the Punjabi music industry.
“Brown Munde” and Global Recognition
In September 2020, AP Dhillon released “Brown Munde,” a song that changed everything. This track became a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing the pride and power of the Punjabi diaspora.
With collaborations featuring big names like Nav, Sidhu Moose Wala, and Steel Banglez, the song was more than just music – it was a movement. It topped the UK Asian charts and earned Dhillon international acclaim. The song’s music video captured the essence of the Punjabi community’s strength and unity, particularly in the face of adversity.
The success of “Brown Munde” wasn’t just confined to the UK and Canada; it resonated with fans across the globe. AP Dhillon had officially arrived on the international stage, and there was no turning back.
Pioneering Success with Collaborative Projects
AP Dhillon’s first collaborative EP, Not by Chance, was released in 2020 alongside Gurinder Gill and Money Musik. All seven tracks from the EP stormed the NZ charts and peaked at the top five of the Official Punjabi Music chart in the UK. This was a monumental achievement, highlighting AP Dhillon’s versatility and his ability to connect with a global audience.
In 2021, AP Dhillon and his team embarked on the “Over The Top – The Takeover Tour,” performing live in major cities across India. This marked a significant milestone for Dhillon, as he shared his music and story with thousands of adoring fans. His performances were electric, and the tour solidified his place as a leading figure in the Punjabi music industry.
Dhillon also partnered with the brand Boat, demonstrating his expanding influence beyond music. His ability to blend music with brand partnerships showcased his growing appeal as a multifaceted artist and entrepreneur.
Beyond Music: Collaborations with Major Platforms
In 2022, AP Dhillon expanded his influence by collaborating with Amazon Prime Video to promote The Boys (season 3). An exclusive version of his track “Insane” was featured in the trailer, marking a new era in his career as he began to blend music with major entertainment platforms.
But perhaps the most groundbreaking moment in Dhillon’s career came in 2023 when he became the first Punjabi language artist to perform at the Juno Awards in Edmonton, Canada. His performance of “Summer High” at the prestigious event was not just a personal milestone but a monumental achievement for Punjabi music on a global scale. It signified the growing acceptance and appreciation of Punjabi culture in mainstream music.
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