5 minute read
Juhi Varma
Juhi Varma: The Rising Star of Electronic and Experimental Music
In the dynamic world of music, where innovation and versatility define an artist, Juhi Varma, popularly known by her stage name ZOHA, has carved a unique space for herself. At just 21, she is a talented guitarist, producer, and DJ, showcasing a diverse musical repertoire that transcends genres and styles. From her early fascination with music to independently releasing her own compositions, Juhi's journey is an inspiring tale of passion and perseverance.
A Musical Journey Rooted in Passion
Growing up in a musically inclined household, Juhi was exposed to various genres from an early age. Her mother’s deep appreciation for music played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic sensibilities. Her journey began with the guitar, an instrument she first picked up in the fourth or fifth grade. What started as a whim soon turned into a serious pursuit, leading her to receive formal training at the Delhi School of Music by the time she was in sixth grade. Her musical exploration took a significant turn at 15 when she developed an interest in electronic music. Fascinated by the process of music production, she took to YouTube to teach herself the intricacies of music creation. This self-driven passion led her to become proficient in production, and later, DJing, which she embraced at 19, stepping into the world of live performances.
Influences That Shaped Her Sound
Juhi's influences span across multiple genres and eras. As a guitarist, she draws inspiration from legendary musicians such as Slash, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Joan Jett, and Nancy Wilson. Her guitar teacher also played a crucial role in shaping her musical perspective. Beyond rock and blues, her musical palette extends to classical guitar, flamenco, ghazals, jazz, house, techno, and breakbeat music. Artists such as Monolink, Solomun, Nora En Pure, Gioli and Assia, Nina Kravitz, Avicii, TOKIMONSTA, and Sylvia Massy have also significantly influenced her approach to music production.
A Blend of Genres and Experimentation
When asked to define her musical style, Juhi describes it as an eclectic mix of multiple genres. She does not confine herself to a single genre, instead embracing versatility, with a particular inclination towards electronic experimental production.
Her creative process is deeply intuitive, often starting with a melody or chord progression and evolving into a full-fledged composition. She places a strong emphasis on evoking emotions and crafting narratives within her music, blending elements that bring her artistic vision to life.
The Studio and Stage Experience
As both a performer and a producer, Juhi enjoys the balance between studio work and live performances. While the studio allows her to refine her creativity and construct original compositions, performing live brings a different kind of excitement—one where she connects directly with the audience, creating an immersive musical experience. Whether in the studio or on stage, both aspects of her career hold a special place in her journey.
Notable Achievements and Collaborations
One of Juhi’s most significant milestones has been independently releasing her first two music videos and an EP. Her single "SAMURAI," directed by her best friend Shristi Dutta, was a visually compelling project that brought the essence of the song to life.
Another notable achievement was her EP My Sad Self, a collaborative effort created with her college friends for a film project based on Allen Ginsberg’s poem of the same name. This project marked a new artistic exploration for Juhi, as she composed music inspired by visual and literary cues.
Currently, she is working on a fruitful collaboration with Kia, experimenting with new soundscapes to enhance their artistic voice. Juhi and Kia are a dynamic singing duo, captivating audiences with their harmonious vocals and electrifying performances. Juhi is working on new projects that promise to showcase her evolving sound and artistic vision.
Challenges in the Music Industry
Like any emerging artist, Juhi has faced challenges in the music industry, particularly the undervaluation of artistic vision in favor of commercial viability. She believes that more spaces should be dedicated to fostering new and upcoming talent, especially in India. Despite these challenges, she remains steadfast in her artistic integrity, continuously striving to stay true to her craft while navigating the industry's demands.
Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
Juhi does not let stage fright hold her back; instead, she embraces the excitement of performing live. She advises aspiring musicians to believe in themselves and persist despite obstacles, emphasizing that growth in music is a continuous journey. With a new song in the works and a deep commitment to expanding her skills, Juhi is eager to explore uncharted territories in music. She envisions an evolving musical career, driven by curiosity and innovation rather than a predetermined path. One of her dreams is to perform at the Love Parade in Berlin, a festival known for its vibrant celebration of electronic music
A Promising Future
Juhi Varma, aka ZOHA, is undoubtedly a rising star in the realm of electronic and experimental music. Her journey—from learning the guitar to producing, DJing, and performing live—exemplifies an artist who is constantly evolving. With her unwavering passion and an unrelenting drive to explore new musical dimensions, Juhi is poised to make a lasting impact on the industry. As she continues to refine her craft and push creative boundaries, the future looks incredibly promising for this young and talented musician.
