Indian singer makes history singing Punjabi in animated film 'Smurfs'
What's the story
Indian-origin singer-songwriter Subhi has created history by becoming the first South Asian artist to sing a Punjabi song for an animated Hollywood film.
Her unique contribution will be featured in the upcoming movie Smurfs, which is set to release in July 2025.
"I have not created a song for an animated film before this... Also, this is the first Hollywood film for which I have written and created music," Subhi told Mid-Day.
Musical fusion
Subhi's Punjabi hook in 'Higher Love' for 'Smurfs'
Subhi has lent her voice to the song Higher Love, a fresh take on Belinda Carlisle's Heaven Is A Place On Earth.
The track features an all-Punjabi hook sung by Subhi with English vocals by Natania. Cardi B and DJ Khaled also feature in the song.
A distinct blend of mainstream hip-hop vibes and rich South Asian musical elements will treat Smurfs fans.
Career transition
Subhi's journey from Wall Street to Hollywood
Subhi's career took a major turn in 2012 when she decided to take music seriously.
She credits her internship with Mira Nair and work on Nair's Broadway musical, Monsoon Wedding, as pivotal experiences that shaped her decision.
"I was doing an internship with [Nair] and was also working on Wall Street... Working on Mira's Broadway musical, Monsoon Wedding, gave me a little more insight," she said.
Musical fusion
Subhi's unique blend of Indian and American music styles
Subhi has created a unique style fusing Indian and American music. She started her musical journey in Chicago, where she soaked in the local jazz and blues scene, while also writing songs in Hindi.
Despite her deep-rooted love for Bollywood, Subhi admitted it was difficult to balance careers in two different worlds.
"As a desi, Bollywood is in my blood," she said, adding the concept of building a career in this industry always appealed to her.
Global distribution
'Higher Love' produced by DESI TRILL, distributed by UMG
The track Higher Love comes from DESI TRILL, a groundbreaking music label blending Hip-Hop, R&B, and South Asian sounds. The song is distributed worldwide by Universal Music Group (UMG).
DJ Khaled, who is excited about the collaboration, said, "I'm excited to be a part of this iconic collaboration... It feels like a full circle moment now having children of my own who watch the Smurfs as well."