MC Square says underground music has become mainstream

Mumbai, Aug 22 (IANS) Rapper MC Square, who is currently seen as a mentor in the fifth edition of “Hustle”, believes music cannot be boxed into the label of ‘commercial’ based on its popularity or earnings and that “underground music has become mainstream.”

The artist, who has been part of the underground hip-hop scene, said the lines between mainstream and underground music have blurred, with audiences now embracing music across genres.

Asked if he agrees that the show “MTV Hustle” is still niche considering a majority chooses commercial music over Hip-Hop, MC Sqaure said: “I feel that art is such a thing that if it earns four paise, then it is called commercial. I don’t believe in the definition of commercial as such—that a particular type of music is commercial.”

“Nowadays, you must have seen that even underground music has become mainstream music,” added the rapper, whose real name is Abhishek Baisla.

“There are many such examples in front of us. Even our own songs have many such examples. So, it is nothing like this that it is for a particular audience. Those who like to listen to songs also watch this show. And you get to listen to other songs as well,” he said.

The rapper, who has crooned numbers such as “Ram Ram,” “Chhore Ncr Aale,” and “Naina Ki Talwar” added: “You get to listen to the talks as well. The talks are also very good, and you get to learn. So, it is for everyone. It is not for a niche audience.”

Talking about Hustle 5, the show has a new theme “Apna Homeground”. Rapper Badshah is seen as Rap Supremo. Joining Badshah, is OG Squad Boss EPR alongside MC Square, Paradox and Agsy. Aspiring rappers battle it out to become India’s biggest hip-hop star.

The first season premiered in 2019, and was judged by Raftaar, Nucleya and Raja Kumari, accompanied by host Gaelyn Mendonca.

–IANS

dc/