Meet Zarir Warden

Born and raised in Mumbai, Zarir is a man of many talents.Lead vocalist and manager of his band ONEmpire, he has also dabbled in a solo project. We caught him at his home turf, the recording studio, and asked him about what tugs at his heartstrings.(pun absolutely intended)

What does a typical day in your life look like?

It's very different as compared to someone with a 9-5 job. Not only am I a performer with the band, but also our manager. The first half of my day generally goes in replying to emails, talking to prospective clients, setting up the logistical stuff for a gig, etc. I try and get a workout in atleast 4-5 times a week in the evening. I tend to work late into the night, so that's a typical day for me.

What is your favourite part about being a musician?

Definitely, being on stage. The adrenaline rush, the feeling that you get when people are in front of you and when people come there to watch you and to listen to you, that's the best part about it. Every time we get on stage, every time we see the people who have bought tickets and come to that specific venue to listen to us, it reminds us why we do what we do.

Who is your favourite artist to cover?

I can't possibly choose one. From the older artists, I definitely love to cover Queen. But I'm very careful with what I cover. There are some songs you just don't touch, and I'm very particular about what we as a band, and me as a singer take on to cover, we have to do justice to it or don't do it at all. Bon Jovi is another favourite artist of mine to cover.

When did you decide this is what you wanted to do with your life?

I was actually working in my family business before all this. Back in 2010-11, I was already doing music but on a much smaller scale. But when people started recognising us and hiring us more, I realised that this could actually potentially be a career for me. I gave myself a deadline of about two years to do it, but that's when I realised that this is what I needed to do, because the rush I get on stage is something I just don't get otherwise.

Who were some of your biggest musical influences growing up?

I have to say artists like Freddie Mercury, Michael Jackson and bands like Bon Jovi. Not just because they were great singers, but for me it's always been about how people perform, and the energy they bring out for each performance. I watch a lot of live concert videos and learn from that.

What is your go-to outfit for the stage?

That's a trick question. Very often, we have to wear formal wear for our gigs. I love wearing suits and tuxes, so I don’t mind that at all. I definitely enjoy the more casual shows where we can just dress up like a pop-rock band. Maybe a tee layered with a flannel shirt, and I love my distressed jeans. I'm very into my hi-top sneakers, which I have a huge collection of.

Apart from music, what's the one thing you're passionate about?

Sports. It's played a massive part in my life. Way before music, I used to be a competitive badminton player from a very young age. I still play today, but more to stay fit. I played basketball through school and college. I'm also very passionate about watching football and tennis. I'm probably the biggest Roger Federer fan you'll meet.

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