Ed Sheeran’s Collaboration Inspires Tribute: Jonita Gandhi Hopes for an Honorary Indian Title

London, United Kingdom – Canadian Singer jonita Gandhi is poised for a new career high, a collaboration with global music superstar Ed Sheeran, set to release as part of his latest EP, Play: The Remixes. The announcement comes as Gandhi prepares for a performance at London’s O2 Arena alongside the acclaimed A.R. Rahman.

Who Is Jonita Gandhi?

Jonita Gandhi, a 35-year-old singer, has captivated audiences with her vocal talent for over a decade. She initially gained recognition by uploading song covers to YouTube, a path increasingly common for contemporary artists. Her repertoire spans over 150 songs in more than ten languages,and she has collaborated with a diverse range of international artists including The Chainsmokers,Sigala,and Leigh-Anne Pinnock. Gandhi has also shared the stage with prominent performers such as Shawn Mendes and Michael Bublé.

Notably,Gandhi has successfully navigated a dual career path,thriving as both a prominent playback singer within the Indian music industry and an independent artist,a rare accomplishment in a field frequently demanding specialization.

Initial Reaction and Creative Process

Gandhi confessed that she initially met the news of the collaboration with disbelief. according to Gandhi, her initial reaction when her manager, ayushman Sinha, informed her about the prospect was one of surprise. As the project progressed, Gandhi fully immersed herself in the recording process, meticulously crafting vocal layers, harmonies, and exploring various creative options.

“I was thinking, I’m going to give them options for everything,” Gandhi explained. “They probably won’t use anything.” To her surprise, the production team incorporated all of her contributions.

A Stressful But Rewarding Week

The completion of the vocal tracks coincided with an exceptionally busy period for Gandhi, filled with performances, events, and travel.She found herself working on the collaboration in between commitments, often utilizing hotel rooms and airport lounges as makeshift recording studios.A moment of panic arose when she discovered missing files,prompting a thorough review to ensure all recorded harmonies were successfully transmitted to Sheeran’s team.

The dedication paid off when she received a direct message from Ed Sheeran, exclaiming, “YOURE SO FUCKING GOOD !!!”

Screenshot of Ed Sheeran’s email to Jonita Gandhi, shared on Instagram on October 17, 2025.

Sheeran’s Respect for Indian Culture

Gandhi emphasized Sheeran’s genuine interest and respect for Indian culture.She recalled his visit to India two years prior where he actively engaged with local musicians and industry professionals to gain a deeper understanding of the Indian Music Scene.

“It’s so easy otherwise to just kind of do the whole cultural appropriation thing,” Gandhi stated,”but I feel like he doesn’t do that.” She playfully suggested that Sheeran should be granted honorary Indian citizenship, given his widespread adoration from Indian audiences.

Sheeran gave Gandhi considerable creative latitude in developing her contribution to the track, allowing her freedom to express her unique artistic vision.

The EP also features contributions from other talented Indian artists, including Karan Aujla, Hanumankind, Santosh, and Dhee.

From Toronto to Mumbai

Despite her widespread success in India, Gandhi retains a distinctly Canadian accent, often surprising those who assume she was raised in India. She leverages her independent releases to share her personal narrative, maintaining complete control over her artistic depiction, from musical composition to visual styling.

Gandhi attributes her success to a combination of supportive parents, mentorship from industry icons like Sonu Nigam and A.R.Rahman, and a pragmatic approach to her career.

Bridging Cultures Through Music

Gandhi envisions herself as a cultural ambassador, using her platform to connect diverse musical traditions. She has already demonstrated this versatility by performing in languages she does not natively speak, including a hit song, “Halamithi Habibo” with Anirudh Ravichander, which has garnered over 750 million views on YouTube.

looking ahead, Gandhi expressed interest in collaborations across various musical genres, including Spanish, African, and K-Pop. She plans to incorporate her Indian heritage into these future projects.

Her dream collaborations include Burna Boy, Jacob Collier, Bruno Mars, Rosalía, Diljit Dosanjh, and Tori Kelly.

The Evolution of Cross-Cultural Music Collaborations

Recent years have witnessed a surge in cross-cultural musical collaborations, driven by the accessibility of global music platforms and a growing appreciation for diverse musical styles. According to a 2023 report by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), streaming has become the dominant form of music consumption, facilitating the discovery of artists from around the world.

these collaborations are not merely about blending sounds; they represent a broader trend of cultural exchange and mutual influence. Artists are increasingly seeking to break down barriers and create music that transcends geographical boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jonita Gandhi and her Collaboration

• what is Jonita Gandhi known for? Jonita Gandhi is a versatile singer known for her YouTube covers, playback singing in Indian films, and collaborations with international artists.
• Who is Jonita Gandhi collaborating with? She is collaborating with Ed Sheeran on his latest EP, Play: The Remixes.
• What did Ed Sheeran say about Jonita Gandhi’s vocals? Ed Sheeran praised Gandhi’s vocals, sending her an keen message stating, “YOURE SO FUCKING GOOD !!!”
• How does Jonita Gandhi view cultural appropriation in music? Gandhi appreciates Ed Sheeran’s respectful approach to Indian culture and his efforts to understand the Indian music scene.
• What other artists are featured on Ed Sheeran’s EP? The EP also features contributions from Indian artists like Karan aujla, Hanumankind, Santosh, and Dhee.

What are your thoughts on this exciting collaboration? Do you think more cross-cultural music projects are the future of the music industry?

How does Jonita Gandhi’s collaboration with Ed Sheeran exemplify strengthening ties between India and Canada?

The Ripple Effect of “Eyes Closed”

Jonita Gandhi, the acclaimed Indian-Canadian singer, is riding a wave of recognition following her stunning collaboration with Ed Sheeran on the remix of his hit song, “Eyes Closed.” This partnership has not only catapulted her further into the international music scene but has also sparked a desire within her too receive an honorary title within India, acknowledging her contributions to bridging musical cultures. The “Eyes Closed” remix, released in late 2023, quickly became a global sensation, showcasing Gandhi’s vocal prowess alongside Sheeran’s signature style.This collaboration represents a important moment for both artists and for the growing fusion of Western and Indian musical influences.

Jonita Gandhi’s Journey: From YouTube Cover Artist to Global Sensation

Gandhi’s rise to prominence is a testament to the power of online platforms and dedicated artistry.

* Early Beginnings: She initially gained recognition through YouTube covers, building a loyal fanbase with her renditions of popular Bollywood and Western songs.

* Breakthrough with AR Rahman: A pivotal moment came with her collaboration with the legendary A.R. Rahman, contributing vocals to several of his projects. This association provided invaluable exposure and credibility.

* Bollywood Success: gandhi has as established herself as a sought-after playback singer in Bollywood, lending her voice to numerous chart-topping films.Notable tracks include songs from Chennai Express and Dilwale.

* Autonomous music & Global Reach: Alongside her Bollywood work, Gandhi continues to pursue independent music projects, expanding her global audience and experimenting with diverse genres. This independent spirit is key to her appeal.

The Meaning of an Honorary Indian Title

Gandhi’s aspiration for an honorary title – potentially a Padma Shri,one of India’s highest civilian awards – stems from a deep connection to her indian heritage. Despite being born and raised in Canada, she actively embraces and promotes Indian culture through her music.

* Cultural Depiction: An honorary title would symbolize recognition of her role as a cultural ambassador, representing India on the international stage.

* Inspiring Future Generations: Such an honor would inspire aspiring artists of Indian origin worldwide,demonstrating that success is achievable while staying true to one’s roots.

* Boosting Indo-Canadian Relations: Gandhi’s story embodies the successful integration and contribution of the Indian diaspora,potentially strengthening ties between India and Canada.

* Precedent for Recognition: Several artists of Indian origin, like Priyanka Chopra Jonas, have received such honors, setting a precedent for recognizing talent that transcends geographical boundaries.

the “Eyes Closed” Remix: A Musical Fusion

the success of the “Eyes Closed” remix lies in its seamless blend of sheeran’s pop sensibilities and Gandhi’s Indian classical influences.

* Vocal Harmony: Gandhi’s vocals complement Sheeran’s perfectly, adding a unique texture and emotional depth to the song.

* production Elements: The remix incorporates subtle Indian instrumentation, enhancing the song’s overall sonic landscape without overpowering its original structure.

* Global Appeal: The song’s worldwide themes of love and longing, combined with its cross-cultural appeal, have resonated with audiences worldwide.

* Chart Performance: The remix has achieved significant chart success in multiple countries,including India,Canada,and the United States.

Impact on Indian Music Scene & Future Collaborations

Gandhi’s collaboration with Ed Sheeran has undoubtedly opened doors for other indian artists seeking international recognition. It highlights the growing demand for diverse musical voices and the potential for cross-cultural collaborations.

* Increased Visibility: The remix has brought increased attention to the Indian music scene, showcasing the talent and creativity of Indian musicians.

* Potential for Future Collaborations: Industry experts predict that this success will pave the way for more collaborations between Indian and international artists.

* Fusion Music Trends: The remix is contributing to a growing trend of fusion music, blending traditional Indian sounds with contemporary Western genres.

* Jonita Gandhi’s Future Projects: Gandhi is currently working on several new projects, including her own original music and potential collaborations with other prominent artists.She has hinted at exploring more regional indian languages in her future work.