Echoes of the Future

Words by Nicky Alcenat

Gayathri Krishnan moves between worlds with a rare ease. With her practice weaving sound, изпълнение, and storytelling into experiences that feel both ancient and futuristic. With a voice that recalls the smoothness of early 2000s R&B pop while carrying the earthiness of her Carnatic roots, Krishnan embodies a duality that is at once familiar and singular.

I first encountered her online, where her following grew quietly from a cult circle into a full-blown fandom. What captured me wasn’t just her music, but her presence, elegant and stylish, but never contrived, radiating a confidence that feels entirely her own.

A Los Angeles native of Southeast Asian heritage, Krishnan draws on a musically gifted lineage while carving out her own path. Her compositions blur the boundaries of tradition and technology, memory and innovation, transforming audiences from mere listeners into participants in her vision.

In between shows and meetings in New York City, she was gracious enough to pause and share her thoughts with Blanc. Her talent, that much is certain — what intrigued me was the chance to look beyond it, to explore the inner landscape of an artist who is not only a star on the rise, but a voice redefining what it means to belong.

How did going to Berklee College of Music shape you musically?

Going to Berklee gave me the confidence to fully be myself. What I loved most about the school was how everyone embraced their uniqueness. It made me realize that I can blend all my musical inspirations and share my multifaceted self with the world.

Have you had any mentors in the music industry or creatively in general?

I don’t have one specific mentor, but I like to ask the people around me for advice. Even though they might not be in the music industry, I feel like there’s always pieces of advice I can use from everyone. I ask my dad a lot about business advice, and he reminds me to stay grounded and calm.

What would you say inspires your personal style (aesthetically)?

I love clothes that are comfortable and that I don’t have to think about. I love the silhouette of a tight top and really baggy jeans or pants. I’m drawn towards earth tones and monochromatic looks, but these days I’m trying to step outside of my comfort zone and add pops of color to my outfits. I also looove chunky silver jewelry. It makes me feel so put together.

Where is your ideal/dream place to perform?

I’d love to perform at the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Hollywood Bowl in LA, and the Sydney Opera House. I’m really drawn to warm, inviting spaces, and I love the magnetic energy that artists like Cleo Sol and Solange brought onto those stages—something I hope to bring to my own shows too.

What inspires you when writing music?

Most of my music is inspired by my real life and the emotions I experience. I feel the most connected to my music when I create from this vulnerable headspace, and I think listeners can feel it too.

If you weren’t a musician, what would your occupation be?

If I weren’t a musician, I’d still be expressing myself creatively. I think I’d start a music or recording school as a community space for others, a goal I’d love to pursue alongside my own artist project. One of my biggest blessings has been my parents and their support of my art, and I’d love to extend that same love to others. I also love the idea of being a chef, running a small, niche restaurant. And I’ve always loved dance—so maybe I’d even be a professional dancer.