Diljit Dosanjh’s road to international fame is a master class for new artists

As Diljit Dosanjh's growing footprints at the global level have added to the delight of his admirers, let's decode his journey to stardom with reference to his memorable international collabs!

The last couple of years have been an exciting time for Diljit Dosanjh as his music prowess is being recognised at the global level. Diljit's versatile vocals, diligently picked collaborations, and sold-out concerts in US, Canada, and Australia have made him a force to reckon with at the international level. His journey marked by authencity, hardwork and smart strategies is a masterclass for emerging artists on how to make it big in the music industry. The actor- singer's rise from Punjabi music circles to the most celebrated international platforms testify how re-invention and experimenting while staying true to your roots is the winning formula.

Think global, act local. Diljit's road to stardom epitomises this slogan as he started off by first creating a solid fanbase in Punjab and then in pan India by being unapologetically himself - singing and speaking in Punjabi, dressing like a true desi, and creating content that resonated with his core audience. Diljit strengthened his roots first and the world ententually took notice of him. 

Another key contributer to Diljit's global fame has been his carefully picked collaborations. Rather than going after random features for clout, the actor-singer aligned with culturally relevant and intentional associations where he found natural synergy and fine tuned vibes. These collaborations included full-fledged recorded songs, appearances in concerts and shows, or something as simple as Instagram Reels. Whatever the format might be, they struck a chord with his fans and went viral in a jiffy.

Also Read: How Diljit Dosanjh won us over with his Dil-Luminati tour!

These collaborations are proof!

Diljit Dosanjh x Camilo

Diljit Dosanjh’s first-ever international collaboration came with Columbian singer Camilo for the song Palpita in 2023. The fusion of Punjabi and Latin music created waves in the global music space. Camilo, who is known for songs like Tutu, Si Me Dices Que Si, Vida de rico, Indigo and PLIS among others, not only lent her voice but also featured in the music video. 

Diljit Dosanjh x Sia

Diljit’s collaboration with Australian singer Sia for the track Hass Hass for another music venture captivated the audience thanks to its catchy lyrics and foot-tapping music. The song quickly jumped the ranks on all charts as soon as it was released and continues to be a staple at every party and club. The highlight of the song is Sia’s vocals in Punjabi.

Diljit Dosanjh x Rapper Saweetie

Diljit’s song with US rapper Saweetie, Khutti is another fan favourite collaboration. Fans went gaga over the stylish track, and Saweetie’s rap. The US rapper is known for songs like Sway With Me, Best Friend, ICY GRL, Tap In and Do It For the Bay among others. Khutti was a chartbuster as it continued to rule charts for months after its release. 

Diljit Dosanjh x Ed Sheeran

In a crossover no one expected, Mumbai witnessed Ed Sheeran singing Diljit Dosanjh’s superhit number Lover with the actor-singer himself! The British singer who enjoys a massive fan following in India, courtesy of his songs Shape of You, Perfect, Photograph, and Thinking Out Loud among others, surprised his fans in the country when he joined forces for a live performance during the former's concert in the city of dreams. The duo performed the song Lover and made everyone go gaga for their chemistry. The next collaboration then saw them performing a fusion of Naina and Shape of You at Birmingham.  

 Diljit x Jimmy Fallon 

Diljit made his debut on the legendary The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon last year where he performed his superhit songs, including Born to Shine and G.O.A.T, among others. The videos from his appearance and fun moments with host Fallon went viral in no time and marked an important moment in the singer’s career so far.

Diljit Dosanjh’s latest collaboration with Hollywood star Will Smith is breaking the internet. The Instagram Reel featuring the duo flexing their bhangra moves on the song Case has raked over 34 million views and is still trending.

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Diljit has announced his arrival on the global stage in style and has emerged as the most celebrated Punjabi artist in the world. In 2023, the singer scripted history as he became the first Indian artist to perform at the iconic Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. His Dil-Luminati tours last year also proved to be a massive success as well!

Besides these international collaborations, what makes Diljit stand apart is his ability to re-invent himself without comprising on his authenticity. Despite singing predominantly in Punjabi, Diljit’s music has a global appeal thanks to his unique style and swag that transcend language. One doesn't need to know Punjabi to enjoy his tracks like Lover or GOAT; you just vibe and the energy connects!

Another thing that has worked for the actor-singer and should be a lesson for emerging artists is his clean PR image and choosing the kind of work that compliments his ambition as an artist. The evolution of his fashion choices and his strategic selection of films has done wonders to how the world views him as an artist today. His performnce in intense projects like Jogi and Amar Singh Chamkila after winning over the audience with light hearted comedies like Good Newwz and the Jatt and Juliet franchise exemplify his range and depth as an actor. 

Overall, Diljit’s success saga is product of his fearless originality, hustle and ambition. For any upcoming artist, his career serves as a textbook for building an international career from sratch by growing smartly and never losing your essence!

What do you think of Diljit's journey? Let us know in the comments below!

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