What is the best Ravi Shankar album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Three Ragas" (1956). It's the most representative of what makes Ravi Shankar worth hearing.

What are the best Ravi Shankar albums?

The essential Ravi Shankar albums include "In New York", "In Concert 1972", "Sound of the Sitar", "Three Ragas" (1956) and "Improvisations" (1962).

How many albums does Ravi Shankar have?

Ravi Shankar has 102 releases in their discography, including 98 albums and 3 EPs.

Photo: Markgoff2972 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Ravi Shankar

Q: Who is Ravi Shankar for?

If you're into Indian classical music and Hindustani classical music, Ravi Shankar is worth your time. The sound features intricate melodic lines that build tension through subtle rhythmic shifts within expansive frameworks, creating an immersive auditory landscape.

The sound features intricate melodic lines that build tension through subtle rhythmic shifts within expansive frameworks, creating an immersive auditory landscape.

Hindustani classical music · Indian classical music

British Raj

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Start here

The album

Three Ragas (1956)

Presents a foundational understanding of Hindustani classical music with three distinct ragas, showcasing Shankar's signature sitar style and improvisational skill.

The song

“Raga Jog”

Features an engaging melodic line that highlights Shankar's intricate playing and serves as an inviting introduction to his musical approach.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Raga Yemen in Teental" — from Ravi Shankar's Festival from India (1968)

accessible entry with immediate hook
2

"I Am Missing You" — from Shankar Family & Friends (1974)

accessible entry with immediate hook
3

"Vandanaa Trayee" — from Collaborations (2010)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"Chase" — from Tana Mana (1987)

accessible entry with immediate hook
5

"Charu Keshi" — from Ravi Shankar: In Celebration (1996)

establishes the sonic palette early
6

"Vandanaa Trayee" — from Chants of India (1997)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Ravi Shankar

Ravi Shankar reshaped the global perception of Indian classical music, introducing its intricate rhythms and emotive melodies to audiences far beyond its traditional roots.

His collaborations with Western musicians helped to bridge cultural divides, fostering a greater appreciation for the depth and sophistication of Hindustani classical traditions.

His collaborations with Western musicians helped to bridge cultural divides, fostering a greater appreciation for the depth and sophistication of Hindustani classical traditions. By engaging listeners through cross-cultural dialogues, Shankar altered the trajectory of world music, making it more inclusive and expansive. His innovative approach combined virtuosity with accessibility, emphasizing the meditative and improvisational aspects of his art. Shankar's performances often featured long, expressive raga explorations that captivated both seasoned aficionados and newcomers alike. He skillfully navigated complex time signatures and nuanced tonalities, inviting an introspective experience that felt both personal and communal. In his songwriting, Shankar often explored themes of spirituality, nature, and the human condition, weaving them into narratives that transcended language barriers. His voice was one of sincerity, marked by a deep reverence for tradition while also embracing innovation. This balance created a storytelling style that resonated emotionally, allowing listeners to connect on various levels.

98 studio albums· 102 total releases· 6 decades· British Raj