In Hollywood, 1971

Experience the enchanting sounds of Ravi Shankar's "In Hollywood, 1971," a captivating live album that transports you to a private concert held in the legendary sitar maestro's Hollywood home on June 12, 1971. This remarkable recording, released by Northern Spy Records on September 30, 2016, features Shankar in an intimate setting, accompanied by the talented Alla Rakha on tabla and Kamal Chakravarty on tanpura.

The album is a testament to Shankar's virtuosity and his ability to captivate audiences with his mesmerizing performances. It consists of four extended pieces: "Hollywood Raga Vibhas," "Hollywood Raga Parameshwari," "Hollywood Dhun," and "Hollywood Raga Sindhi Bhairavi." Each track showcases Shankar's mastery of the sitar and his deep understanding of Indian classical music, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.

"In Hollywood, 1971" is a rare opportunity to witness Ravi Shankar's artistry in an intimate setting, making it a valuable addition to any music enthusiast's collection. The album's duration of 1 hour and 59 minutes allows for a deep dive into Shankar's musical world, providing a unique glimpse into his live performances. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ravi Shankar or new to his music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ravi Shankar, born Robindra Shankar Chowdhury, was a titan of Indian classical music, renowned globally for his mastery of the sitar. Born in Varanasi, India, in 1920, Shankar's journey began at the tender age of 10, performing with his family's dance troupe across Europe and the U.S. His virtuosity and compositions, including several original ragas, captivated audiences worldwide, making him the most famous ambassador of Indian classical music in the West during the latter half of the 20th century. Shankar's influence extended beyond his performances, inspiring countless musicians, including those from the Beatles, with whom he collaborated. His compositions for films like "Gandhi" further cemented his legacy. Beyond his musical prowess, Shankar was a dedicated teacher, nurturing a new generation of musicians. His personal life included his daughters, the acclaimed singer Norah Jones and sitar player Anoushka Shankar, both of whom carry forward his musical heritage. Shankar's contributions earned him India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999, and his impact on global music remains unparalleled.