It was a pleasure to interview Sayendra Basu, CEO & Founder of Cryptic Records, a Record Label based in India. With growing popularity and features on major international press, this 20-year-old is creating major waves in the music industry. Gaining over a million plays under a year and placement on major editorial playlists, the label has delivered sizzling songs that have received global appreciation. Starting the label at just 19 years, he is the youngest founder of an International Record label in India. We, at About Insider, talk to this young CEO about his views on Entrepreneurship and the industry.
DO YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF AS AN ENTREPRENEUR?
Well, in essence, yes I do. I have always seen myself as a creator and someone who wanted to do something different, unique, and take risks. I mean, I started with English Honours and ended up running a Record Label (laughs). However, yes, I do see myself as an entrepreneur as I have a dream and I did always love taking the road not taken.
WHY A RECORD LABEL?
Well, why not? Ever since I was a kid, I loved music. I was the one with the earphones always plugged in. I started my music production career in 2018 and while on that journey, I asked myself this simple question. There must be thousands of producers and musicians like me who know how to make music but do not know how to bring that creativity to the masses. I created Cryptic Records with the motto of connecting the musicians with the audience because I believe that everyone deserves to be heard.
WHAT WERE SOME CHALLENGES YOU FACED, STARTING SO YOUNG?
I consider myself lucky for whatever I have today. Being a student, the immediate problem was financial as well as of time. My hands were tied and I did many internships together to fund my idea and help it take off. While I balanced college in the day, I spent the night on my idea, fueled by coffee and the determination to see that idea take shape. I’m grateful to my parents and some of my friends, including my best friend Spinner Sunny for all the help and support. In the end, I believe the struggles make the success taste sweeter and more deserved.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO UPCOMING SINGERS AND MUSICIANS?
As a producer myself, I have learned certain things and as a label, I have learned some things.
- We are always looking for music that is unique and out of the box.
- Always make sure to choose a label that focuses on your genre/style or work with open labels like Cryptic Records.
- Do not run after brands or names. Love your music and believe in it. That is what matters.
- Do not give up hope if you are rejected by a label. Try other labels.
- As a producer, the first thing I’ll say is that equipment does not matter. I made my first song on a six-year-old laptop that crashed every time I made something. If you earn something, invest in your equipment. It’s essential.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO ENTREPRENEURS AND START-UPS?
First thing? Make sure your idea/product is demand-driven. Identify problems/requirements in society/select groups and come up with a solution. Make sure your idea is unique. You will always have competition. What matters is doing what they will never think of. Innovate. Go bonkers with your thoughts and ideas. Always think of the worst-case scenarios for everything you do so that you’re prepared to deal with any crisis that comes at hand. Trust me, it will. Always keep a backup job/internship. You have no idea how much that poor paying internship might save you when every dollar counts.
HOW IS IT BEING THE CEO OF A LABEL AT THIS AGE?
(Laughs) I still consider myself as nothing. There is much more for me to learn and to achieve. However, when I get messages from strangers or even my team telling me that I inspire them, it fills me with joy and it makes me happy knowing that in my way, I am contributing to society.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS AMAZING SESSION. BEFORE WE END, IS THERE ANYTHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO FROM CRYPTIC RECORDS?
Indeed there is. We have a bunch of amazing songs and collaborations lined up, as well as new and exciting episodes on our podcast with celebrity guest artists. Not to mention the pretty strong plans for a music festival. (whispers) it’s all a secret. I didn’t tell you anything (laughs)
To know more about Cryptic Records visit www.crypticrecords.in and don’t forget to follow them on Social Media – Facebook @CrypticRecords6 , Instagram @crypticrecords_ , YouTube @CrypticRecords , Spotify @CrypticRecords
