#KetchupTalks: Darshan Magdum on Boy Throb, Grammys & being ‘stuck in India’

From sharing covers of the most popular songs to getting recognised by stars, the internet's favourite star singer, Darshan Magdum, talks about joining Boy Throb and more.

We all recognise the impact music has on our lives. Most of us can’t actually sing, but we know that “music makes us lose control” and, at its best, makes us feel grateful to be alive. That’s something Darshan Magdum, the internet’s unlikely star singer, has embodied fully as he continues to perfect the very thing people now love him for: his music.

Darshan began by covering popular pop songs in karaoke style, green screen and an earnest smile while hitting notes that barely matched the original. At first, the internet responded with sarcasm, mock praise, and memes. But somewhere along the way, the irony faded and the affection became real. His refusal to care about the hate and his commitment to simply having fun resonated with audiences. Slowly, the negative comments turned wholesome. Since becoming a viral face online, Darshan has collaborated with both emerging and established artists. From casual jam sessions with Sarvesh Rotkar and the Indian band We Are Outstation to international names like Matthew Ifield, Darshan has been brushing up on his vocals. This is while he continues to do covers that were shared by Bruno Mars and ROSÉ, along with getting a shoutout from Maroon 5 on stage, his journey has been anything but ordinary.

That journey eventually led him to Boy Throb, a boy band featuring Evan Papier, Anthony Key, Zachary Sabania, and Darshan, all creators who first gained popularity online. While Anthony and Evan previously tried their luck on American Idol, Boy Throb seems to be their most successful act yet. One of the band’s biggest running gags is that their fourth member is “stuck in India,” while they ask for their followers' help to secure a U.S. visa for Darshan so they can finally perform together. We had the opportunity to have a chat with Darshan to learn more about his collaboration with Boy Throb, being part of the music industry globally, and more.

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Here's what he had to share:

Your covers have almost become a genre of their own online. How would you describe your creative growth since you first started posting?

When I started, I was just singing for fun. I didn’t think too much about it. Over time, I learned to focus more on feeling and emotion, not just vocals. I’ve become more confident in my style and more comfortable being vulnerable. Now I trust myself more as an artist.

Joining Boy Throb was a big moment for you. How did this collaboration happen, and why did it feel right?

It happened very naturally. There wasn’t a big plan — it was about having similar ideas, humour, and love for music. It felt right because I didn’t have to change who I am. It added something new to my journey instead of limiting me.

Boy Throb calls itself the “people’s boy band” and is very digital-first. What inspired this, and how have fans reacted?

We’re all very connected to the internet, so a digital-first band felt real and honest. We didn’t want to force a traditional boy band image. Fans like that it feels close and personal, like they’re part of the journey.

You were at the Grammys just three months after forming the band. What was that experience like?

It was honestly unreal. Personally, it showed me that big things can happen very fast. As a group, it motivated us even more. It felt like the beginning of something bigger, not the end goal.

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How has moving from being a solo creator to part of a group changed you as an artist?

It taught me how to work with others while still being myself. I’ve learned to listen more and share ideas. Being in a group has helped me understand my own identity as an artist better.

What’s next for you and Boy Throb, and how do you see yourself growing with the band?

We have a lot of new music coming and we’re experimenting more. Personally, I want to stay honest and emotional in my music. I see my solo growth and the band’s journey going together.

Lastly, will we see all four of you performing together soon?

I can’t say much yet, but it’s something we want and are working toward.

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When do you think the band will perform together on stage? Let us know your thoughts below.

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