Indian jazz-pop legend Asha Puthli returned to Mumbai in October last year for her first ever Red Bull Music Academy lecture. Hosted by media producer DeeptiDatt, in the candid chat Puthli discussed her incredible career, breaking through in the ‘70s, her love for and relationship with jazz music, and much more.

From taking up a job as cabin crew with British Airways to earn her ticket out of India, to be being discovered by the erstwhile head of Columbia Records through a magazine he was reading, to establishing herself as a leading solo Indian artist in America long before there was a niche for this, Puthli’s story is one born out of sheer determination and passion.

Asha Puthli’s is a name that is legendary for many reasons. Over five decades the singer, songwriter and actress has released ten albums, over 25 singles and made numerous guest appearances across genres – including a breakthrough performance on Ornette Coleman’s seminal album Science Fiction.

Born and raised in Mumbai, Puthli made it to America on a dance scholarship with Martha Graham, obtaining a passport by working as cabin crew with British Airways. She released her self-titled debut album in 1973 before finding critical acclaim with her third, The Devil Is Loose. Never afraid to try something new, Puthli’s career became an embodiment of the modern idea of fusion, bridging gaps between genres and cultures with her voice.

Her music has been sampled by the likes of Notorious B.I.G., Jay Z, 50 Cent and Diplo, and she has recently completed a tribute album to the jazz legends she worked with throughout her career: Duke Ellington, Ornette Coleman, Lionel Hampton and Cy Coleman.

Watch the lecture here:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIflaDZwalA&t=2526s