In a world where dreams are too often shelved in favor of safe careers and predictable paths, Dhruv Shrikent chose courage over comfort. A former senior investment banker at Deutsche Bank, he was once deeply immersed in financial spreadsheets and billion-dollar decisions. But a song he wrote in 2013 changed everything. That moment sparked a metamorphosis, as Dhruv transformed into Druv Kent, a name now etched into the hearts of global music lovers.
Dhruv Shrikent: Breaking Barriers – A Song That Reshaped a Life
For most, music is a hobby. For Dhruv Shrikent, it became a calling too powerful to ignore. Despite a high-flying career in finance, the music he composed tugged relentlessly at his soul. “The songs moved me. They demanded to be heard,” he once said. After years of doubt, sleepless nights, and personal introspection, Dhruv made the most daring choice of his life—he gave up the corporate world to pursue music full time.
In 2015, just two years after his life-changing decision, Druv Kent became the first Asia-based English contemporary music artist to be supported by BBC Radio 2 in over 20 years—a historic breakthrough.
Druv Kent: A Global Sound Rooted in Indian Soul
What sets Dhruv Shrikent apart is the seamless fusion of Western folk-pop and Indian Sufi traditions. His lyrics—sometimes English, sometimes Hindi—are poetic reflections on life, love, loss, hope, and belonging. With four EPs and over 18 hit singles, Druv Kent’s music has topped the World Indie Music Charts, the Euro Indie Music Charts, and entered the US Top 20, touching audiences across continents.
His most recent song, “Hope,” from his upcoming EP Indian Spirit, is a musical tapestry of cultures, recorded across Singapore, the UK, Delhi, and Shillong. It offers a global yet deeply personal sound—a reflection of his Indian heritage and international spirit.
Dhruv Shrikent: Accolades, Collaborations, and a Commitment to Craft
From the start, Dhruv’s music attracted some of the industry’s biggest names. He has collaborated with:
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Greg Haver (Manic Street Preachers)
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Calum MacColl (Ronan Keating)
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Simon Edwards (David Gray, John Mayer)
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Doug Carr (Ace of Base, The Corrs)
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Tony Malm (Lambretta)
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Jon Tiven (BB King)
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Gaurav Godkhinde (Sanam)
These producers brought out the best in Druv Kent’s songwriting, guiding it into world-class arrangements that have won multiple awards for both live performances and songwriting—in both Hindi and English.
Live and Unfiltered: The Druv Kent Band
Live performance is where Dhruv Shrikent truly shines. With the six-piece Druv Kent Band, he has sold out theatres across Singapore, India, the UK, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia. From prestigious venues like the Esplanade and Victoria Theatre to festivals such as Kasauli Lit Fest and the Asia Television Awards, the energy he brings on stage is electric.
His band has also broken new ground in the post-pandemic world by pioneering commercially successful online gigs, bringing the joy of live music to global living rooms.
Dhruv Shrikent: Mentorship, Advocacy & Giving Back
Dhruv’s influence extends beyond music. He believes in giving back to the community that nurtured him. Through initiatives like the DK Battle of the Bands in Singapore, he has championed young creators of original music. As a judge on music competitions, public speaker at schools and universities, and mentor to aspiring artists, he’s nurturing the next generation of creative talent.
He’s also used his platform for social good, organizing charity performances and collaborating with the Shillong Chamber Choir to promote inclusivity and artistic freedom.
A Voice for Asian Creators on the World Stage
In a time when Asian artists are still fighting for equal recognition on the global music stage, Dhruv Shrikent is proof that world-class music knows no borders. His journey underlines the importance of belief—belief in your talent, your voice, and your dream.
His success challenges outdated stereotypes: that pop music must come from the West, or that Asia lacks the infrastructure for original music. “We can never break out internationally unless we believe we can create world-class music,” he says—and lives by it.
“Indian Spirit”: A New Chapter Begins
The upcoming 5th EP, Indian Spirit, is perhaps Dhruv’s most introspective work yet. Blending Indian rhythms with Western melodic structures, the record captures the essence of East meeting West. The songs are all-original, all-heart—and all Druv Kent.
Simultaneously, he’s working on a series of Hindi songs, tapping into the emotional soul of India and reflecting his deep connection to his roots.
#DareToDream: A Legacy Beyond Music
“#DareToDream” isn’t just a hashtag—it’s a manifesto. It’s what Dhruv Shrikent stands for. His journey from the boardrooms of international banking to the front rows of global music festivals is a living blueprint for those standing at the edge of change.
His message is simple but powerful: “When the song inside you refuses to be silenced, let it sing. Even if the world says no. Especially then.”
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