Free download is killing the audio industry: Gurukiran

Ace music director Gurukiran has been on a musical high as appreciation is still pouring in for his hit number, Pyaarge Aagbittaite. The Govindaya Namaha track is also a hot favourite among the denizens of Mangalore, where he’s all set to perform next week at the Kadri Jathre.
“The other popular numbers that I often belt out in Kudla include Bandal Badhai, Bari Olu and Kolle,” he says, adding that the city loves listening to songs in various languages and genres.Meanwhile, the Kadri Jathre — which is set to welcome several Sandalwood stars — is quite close to Gurukiran’s heart.
“I’ve been associated with this event since my childhood; I performed here last year too,” he says. The music director shares that he will introduce music lovers to his latest song, Hudgi Beku from Rangan Style, given the fact that the song begins with Tulu lyrics.
“It’s a major hit on a broadcasting site, but when it comes to the audio industry as a whole, I’m upset that it’s on a downward trend. Sales of CDs have dipped, owing to free downloads. I hope people realize that music is to be cherished and not killed,” laments Guru.
--Contributed by Madhu Daithota