Indian jazz-pop legend Asha Puthli returned to Mumbai for the Red Bull Music Academy lecture. Hosted by media producer Deepti Datt, in the candid chat Asha discussed her career, breaking through in the ‘70s, her love for jazz music, and much more.

From taking up a job as cabin crew with British Airways to earn her ticket out of India, to be being discovered by the erstwhile head of Columbia Records through a magazine she was reading, and establishing herself as a leading solo Indian artist in America long before there was a niche for this, Asha’s story is one born out of sheer determination and passion.

Over five decades she has released 10 albums, over 25 singles and made numerous guest appearances across genres.

She released her debut album in 1973 which followed by her finding critical acclaim with her third, The Devil Is Loose. Asha’s career became an embodiment of the modern idea of fusion, bridging gaps between genres and cultures with her voice.

Her music has been sampled by the likes of Notorious B.I.G., Jay Z, 50 Cent and Diplo, and she has recently completed a tribute album to jazz legends.