Radio stations can contribute in promoting non-film music: Papon

Playback singer Papon feels FM channels can play a huge role in promoting non-film music, which otherwise struggles to get heard.

The 41-year-old singer, who hails from Assam, says music apps can also be a huge platform for pushing non-filmy music.

"They're definitely niche (music apps) but they are also much bigger than what they were five years ago. Non-film music or platforms that push non-film music can only be a part of the mainstream if we have radio stations that play non-film music. That's the only solution," Papon told.

"If platforms like that push different styles of music, from different parts of the country, more people will get to hear it. And that's what we need," he added.

Papon was roped in to be a part of Saavn's 'Artist-in- Residence Program', designed exclusively for breakthrough artists.

"The Artist-in-Residence programme is a very positive step, and I'm very excited to be a part of it. This association comes at a great time for me as I have been working on some new ideas that I can't wait to share with my fans.

"We're planning something exciting for my forthcoming EP, The Story Now and Saavn is helping me put it together," he said.

On the film front, the singer has given hit songs like "Jiye Kyu" from "Dum Maaro Dum" and "Kyu?" from "Barfi" with Pritam and Papon says he would love to collaborate again with the music composer.

"Pritam and I have been talking about working together, and I would love to do something with him soon but it's too soon to divulge any details."