Divine is a name that is synonymous with rap music in India alongside a handful of fellow musicians. He’s also credited with putting hip-hop from the country on the map. He has toured around the world, been featured on a BBC Radio show, been the inspired a Bollywood feature film, contributed music to a few, and now even runs his own company/record label. Gully Life: The Story of DIVINE, an upcoming release based on the rapper’s life, traces the rise of Vivian, from his humble beginnings in Mumbai to global super-stardom.
‘Gully Boy’ released recently. ‘Gully Boy’ put you on the national map. For the people who did not even listen to the music they were like, there are these two boys, and this is their song. Do you think ‘Gully Boy’ has created a change in the scene for hip-hop?
Yeah, I feel like the music has gone out everywhere. A shout out to Zoya Akhtar and Ranveer Singh, who took this up and put it out there. The platform is here, people are also listening. It’s our turn now to give it back, make good music and put it out there. I’m expecting good music from everywhere, all parts of India. It’s coming and fun to listen to as well.
I think a year ago I was at the Red Bull Bus tour, when you were there. You performed, Raftaar performed. I remember you had said your diss track is also coming. You said your diss track is on its way and I was eagerly waiting, everyone was eagerly waiting.
I knew you were going to come here. See, I have a song called ‘Remand’. I’m not particularly dissing anyone. My song that is there on the album will come. Whoever is making music, should continue doing so. I don’t promote negativity, I’ve never promoted negativity. I’m a guy who likes to promote good music and that’s what I’ll stick to. Giving attention to an individual is not necessary. There is a whole world outside, there are so many guys who love my music and I make music for them and I make music to inspire myself and then others.
Gully Life: The Story of DIVINE takes an in-depth look at how a young rapper from Mumbai became one of the most sought-after musicians in India and a global superstar – in a matter of a few years. Produced by Red Bull Media House in association with Supari Studios, the film chronicles the ups and downs of one of India’s favourite musicians, in a journey that’s as fascinating as it is endearing.
Editor: Veeru Krishan Mohan
Cameraman: Sanjoy Deb
Assistant Cameraman: Gautam Sharma
Producer: Bilal Jaleel
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