The albums that define
indian classical music.
Our picks for where to start with indian classical music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top Indian classical music artists
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The indian classical music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Ravi Shankar
Three Ragas
'Three Ragas' serves as a foundational entry point, highlighting the core aspects of Indian classical music in just three pieces. Each raga presents a different mood and technique, illustrating Shankar's skill and the genre's emotional richness.
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Ravi Shankar
Live: Ravi Shankar at the Monterey International Pop Festival
A mesmerizing blend of intricate ragas and rhythmic tabla, transporting listeners into the depths of Indian classical music.
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Asha Bhosle
You've Stolen My Heart – Songs From R.D. Burman’s Bollywood
Asha Bhosle's vocals weave through vibrant Bollywood soundscapes, blending traditional melodies with contemporary rhythms.
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Hariharan
Qaraar – Ghazals by Hariharan
A lush tapestry of Carnatic melodies and heartfelt ghazals, imbued with emotive vocal expression and intricate arrangements.
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Hariharan
Halka Nasha
A lush blend of traditional Indian melodies and contemporary arrangements, evoking deep emotion through intricate vocal performances.
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Oregon
Crossing
A rich tapestry of world music influences interwoven with avant-garde improvisation and lush melodic structures.
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Oregon
Out of the Woods
A serene blend of jazz, folk, and world music infused with improvisational spirit and rich melodic textures.
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Anoushka Shankar
Traveller (Anoushka Shankar album)
A vibrant fusion of Indian classical melodies and contemporary rhythms, evoking a journey through diverse cultural landscapes.
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Anoushka Shankar
Rise
A fusion of Indian classical and contemporary sounds, weaving intricate sitar melodies with modern rhythms and emotional depth.
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Ram Narayan
Rag Lalit
A profound exploration of Rāg Lalit, melding intricate melodies with emotive depth that resonates across time and space.
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Rahul Sharma
Namaste
A serene blend of traditional Indian classical melodies with modern electronic textures that evoke a meditative state.
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A. R. Rahman
Vande Mataram
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A. R. Rahman
Raunaq
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Manna Dey
Ki Emon Katha
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By decade
Where Indian classical music landed in each era.