India joins the global music spotlight

Crowd enjoying concert / Pexels

In 2024, India’s live music scene witnessed a remarkable rise, with more international artists performing across the country. This trend highlights India’s growing prominence as a major stop for global musicians and underscores the country’s expanding cultural and economic influence in the global music industry.

Ed Sheeran’s tour 

One of the biggest highlights of last year was Ed Sheeran’s concert in Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Racecourse, drawing massive crowds. This year, too, the British singer-songwriter is set to perform in seven Indian cities for his 'Mathematics Tour'.

His popularity in India is undeniable.

Sheeran’s connection with India has been notably strong, underscored by his collaborative performances with prominent Indian artists. In March 2024, during his sold-out concert in Mumbai, Sheeran shared the stage with renowned Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh. Together, they delivered a memorable rendition of Dosanjh’s hit song "Lover", blending Sheeran’s acoustic style with Punjabi rhythms, much to the audience’s delight. Sheeran’s admiration for Indian music and culture has endeared him to his Indian fanbase, making him one of the most beloved international artists in the country.

Dua Lipa’s debut

In November 2024, Dua Lipa captivated fans in Mumbai with her debut performance, delivering an electrifying stage presence and a lineup of her chart-topping hits. Her dynamic energy and connection with the audience left attendees thoroughly impressed.

In a special moment that resonated deeply with the crowd, Dua Lipa paid tribute to Indian reel culture by incorporating a snippet of Shah Rukh Khan’s iconic song "Wo Ladki Jo" into her performance. This unexpected nod to Bollywood delighted fans and demonstrated her effort to connect with the local culture. The gesture not only impressed her Indian audience but also highlighted the global influence of Indian cinema and music.

Coldplay’s return 

Coldplay is set to return to India in January 2025 with their 'Music of the Spheres' World Tour, nearly a decade after their last performance. They will play three shows in Mumbai on Jan. 18, 19, and 21 at Dnyandeo Yashwantrao Patil Sports Stadium and two shows in Ahmedabad on Jan. 25 and 26 at Narendra Modi Stadium.

Tickets sold out quickly, with over 13 million fans vying for limited seats, leading to technical glitches and secondary market price surges. 

To reach more fans, the Jan. 26 Ahmedabad concert will be livestreamed on Disney+ Hotstar. This tour underscores India’s growing importance as a destination for global music events and highlights the increasing demand for live performances by international artists.

Maroon 5’s energetic shows 

Maroon 5 made their debut performance in India on December 3, 2024, at Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Racecourse. The concert featured a dynamic setlist of their most popular songs, showcasing the band’s ability to connect with fans across diverse cultures.

The event marked a significant moment in India’s live music landscape, emphasizing the country’s growing appeal as a destination for international artists. Maroon 5’s energetic show further solidified the presence of Western pop acts in India’s diverse music scene.

Lollapalooza India 2025

In 2025, the famous music festival Lollapalooza will debut in India, with performances in Mumbai on March 8 and 9. This global festival, which has been held in countries like the U.S., Chile, and Brazil, will bring a star-studded lineup to India. Artists like Green Day, Shawn Mendes, Louis Tomlinson, and Glass Animals will perform, marking their first shows in the country.

Lollapalooza’s arrival in India highlights the country’s growing importance in the global music scene. With an expanding middle class and a youthful, music-loving population, India is becoming a key destination for international artists. The festival will not only bring world-class music but also boost India’s live music industry. Alongside music, fans can look forward to food, art, and cultural experiences set against Mumbai’s vibrant urban backdrop, promising an unforgettable weekend of entertainment.

The year 2024 was a milestone for India’s live music scene, with performances by major Western artists like Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa, and Maroon 5.