Music lovers of India are quite familiar with the name Sonu Sebastian. Many have witnessed his meteoric rise and enjoyed in awe, his breathtaking performances. As a creative artist who is constantly innovating his art form, he has carved a niche for himself in the entertainment industry and a place in the hearts of many. He is best known for his creation of the Water drums. His main instruments are Liquid drums, Percussion and is also a popular DJ.
Sonu was born on 31st December 1990, in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. He did his under graduation at Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam, following which, he studied music at the prestigious Cochin Kalabhavan under the tutelage of Anish Thaikudam and excelled at learning to play drums with Mr. Jimmy from Evans Music Academy, and Mr. Matthews from Jam Conservatory. He rounded off his learning by studying Sound Engineering and Music Production Program under the legendary sound engineer from south India, Mr. Francis Kollannur.
He had gone through his fair share of struggles during his humble upbringing, which has helped him shape his outlook towards life. His grandfather, a clarinet maestro and a well-known musician, served as an inspiration in his formative years.
Blast into the past
Sonu’s initial performances were parish-oriented and gospel music projects. He was the official drummer of the Jesus’ Youth gospel band. His persistence in training, dedication and passion eventually paid off when he was recognized on many forums and talent shows. During his early years, Sonu created a brand for himself through his live performances of musical fusion bringing together EDM (Electronic Dance Music) and percussion instruments. At a time when it was not yet popular, he introduced live rhythm and percussion style into the genre becoming the first musician to add 400 percussion sounds and hundreds of compelling rhythms. His unique blend of percussion instruments, fusion of styles like Rock, POP, Jazz, Latin and eastern music captured the hearts and minds of many.
Supreme love – Music
Sonu has collaborated with various artists, performing in over 2000+ events across the globe. As the title artist, his drums have lit up stages in grand music festivals like Sunburn, Island music festival (IMF), Thailand Full Moon EDM Musical Festival and also, the Bloom In Green festival. The list of countries he has performed include Switzerland, Paris, Germany, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and many more. He has also performed at the Abu-Dhabi Indian festival, Indian Tourism Festival in UAE, Asia vision Award Night in Dubai, UAE for four consecutive years, and also the Film Critics Award, India vs England one-day match, the 5th anniversary celebrations of Lulu Mall and Lulu Fashion Week in Cochin, Kingfisher October Fest, Yahoo year end party, Bangalore and Onam Celebrations in Switzerland (2019). He was also the official drummer for Kochi Tuskers.
What’s in the news
Sonu is in tune with the latest trends, and when he is not performing, he is in practice and constantly innovating his style and expanding his arsenal with unique additions to his shows. It was the strong desire to create varied experiences for audiences that led him to start working on his most unique offering, an experience that will set him miles apart from the rest. After various trials and errors, he successfully created the Water Drums.
Initially, these were illuminated with lights at the bottom, creating an illusion of water and light dancing to the beat of his drum. He later designed and developed flexible LED lights and LED display which further enhanced the visual experience. This combined with his captivating rhythm creates a festive atmosphere which is a sight to behold. A trendsetter, he is the first Indian Percussionist to introduce LED Water Drums, which he has fondly named ‘Orbiters’. He is an inspiration to aspiring musicians to follow their heart.
Today, he is one of the most sought-after artists at high-profile events, major clubs, music festivals; a heartthrob at college festivals, earning him the award for Best Guest Engagement Artist EMAK, 2020.
Live performances by Sonu is where one can see his passion for music come alive. His skill is tremendous and his energy on the stage is contagious! All his events are filled with spectacular visual and acoustic treats which has the crowd ecstatic.