PIONEER NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
Born and raised in Chembur, Mumbai, Atharva Phadke has carved an inspiring path as a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Now based in Los Angeles, Phadke is a teaching assistant at the prestigious Musicians Institute, where he also graduated in 2024. When not teaching or mentoring students, he performs with his band, works as a session musician, and continues to release genre-defying music.
His passion for music began early and never dimmed. After teaching himself guitar at 15 and working as a voice-over actor during his teenage years, Phadke briefly joined Whistling Woods International for a bachelor’s degree in music. However, driven by a desire for artistic freedom, he chose to drop out and focus on writing, performing, and honing his unique musical voice.
In 2020, he embarked on a 7-city solo tour with the music-travel startup Motojojo, culminating in a standout performance at Unheard Festival in Dharamshala, which was featured among renowned media. That same year, he released his debut single “The City”, followed by “Fear” in 2021 — a track that poignantly addressed anxiety and was highlighted by Rolling Stone India. Phadke continued to explore social themes through his music, with releases like “Hygiene” (on social alienation), “Soon” (on war), and his recent 2024 release “Indian Man”, which speaks to strength and freedom.
His mother is a lawyer and his father is a senior officer in the Maharashtra Police while his sisters are veterinarians and experts in media law. Phadke chose a different path of music. His journey is one of authenticity, resilience, and unrelenting passion — proving that dreams, no matter how unconventional, can indeed come true.
