In a world increasingly shaped by fleeting trends and digital noise, few artists manage to strike a chord that lingers long after the song ends. Enter The Bala Boys—Singaporean twin brothers Sriram and Ganesh Bala, whose story is not just about music, but about purpose, passion, and the pursuit of healing through sound. Fusing Carnatic music with meditative affirmations and global soundscapes, their journey from childhood music classes to the heart of New York City’s Times Square is a masterclass in vision, resilience, and authenticity.
Bala Boys: A Musical Bond Born of Blood and Spirit
Raised in Singapore in a home filled with the rhythms of Indian classical music, Sriram and Ganesh Bala were immersed in melody and spirituality from a young age. Their father, Bala Narayan, a skilled mridangam player, exposed them to not only Carnatic traditions but also a diverse palette of musical genres, including jazz, hip-hop, and Western classical.
By the age of 14, they had already performed alongside legends like Vikku Vinayakram and later collaborated with icons such as Zakir Hussain and the violinist duo Ganesh and Kumaresh. Yet, their foundation remained deeply rooted in Carnatic music, further nurtured by mentorship under maestro Abhishek Raghuram, both in-person and via Skype during summer breaks in India.
From Singapore to Berklee: A Global Launchpad
Fuelled by discipline and an unrelenting thirst for knowledge, the twins earned scholarships to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. It was there that their vision expanded beyond tradition. At Berklee, they immersed themselves in musical diversity, becoming integral members of the Berklee Indian Ensemble, which later earned a Grammy nomination for the album Shuruaat.
Graduating in 2021, they set off for Los Angeles, a city buzzing with artistic energy. The journey was never about stardom—it was always about the music. They began sharing their unique covers of Tamil songs and Carnatic medleys on social media, unknowingly creating ripples that would soon become waves. Their rendition of “Kannathil Muthamittal” was shared by R Madhavan, and support poured in from artists like AR Rahman, GV Prakash, and Rashmika Mandana.
“Om and Affirmations”: Music That Heals
In 2024, the Bala Boys reached a milestone few independent artists ever do—they were featured on a billboard in Times Square, promoting their debut wellness album, Om and Affirmations. Unlike mainstream music, this album is a meditative journey. It blends the sacred vibrations of the word “Om” with healing affirmations, crafted using traditional Indian ragas fused with ambient, modern textures.
Their music is not just heard—it’s felt. Listeners from around the world began sharing how their compositions alleviated anxiety, supported meditation, and inspired emotional clarity. In an age where fast beats dominate the charts, the Bala Boys chose to slow things down, intentionally guiding people back to themselves.
Bala Boys: A One-Way Ticket to the Motherland
Despite gaining traction in the West, the Bala Boys never lost sight of their roots. In 2023, they purchased a one-way ticket to Chennai, India, determined to connect directly with the land and the people that first shaped their identity.
“We are here to meet the makers of the music that raised us,” Ganesh shared. Their commitment is unwavering: performing for the fans who supported them, engaging in organic collaborations, and soaking in the rich cultural energy of Tamil Nadu.
Performing at packed shows, such as their recent one at Radio Room in Chennai, they chose authenticity over algorithms. They weren’t looking to trend—they were looking to belong. And their breakfast? Always pongal and sambar—a delicious homage to their roots.
Twin Souls, One Sound
When asked what it’s like working with a twin, they smile. “Twin telepathy might be real,” laughs Sriram. Their chemistry is undeniable. In the studio, ideas flow effortlessly. On stage, their harmonies feel as if they were born singing together. And they were.
Together, they balance each other. Ganesh often takes on the role of producer and technical overseer, while Sriram dives deep into emotional interpretation. It’s this synergy that allows them to create music that is intellectually rich and emotionally resonant.
Inspiration and the Road Ahead
The Bala Boys cite musical legends like Ilaiyaraaja, Yuvan Shankar Raja, Harris Jayaraj, and Thaman as key inspirations. But they also draw from global artists, creating a fluid, borderless language of music. Their mission is simple but profound: to make music that heals, unites, and celebrates identity.
Their upcoming projects include collaborations with international artists, the launch of an original album, and a world tour that promises to bring their healing harmonies to live audiences across continents. They’re also partnering with a new platform to use music as a vehicle for positivity and mental wellness.
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