memphisgundown.org – Indian hip-hop has seen a surge in popularity over the last few years, and at the forefront of this movement is Vivian Fernandes, better known by his stage name, Divine. Hailing from the streets of Mumbai, Divine’s journey to success is a testament to his talent, determination, and the rise of gully rap, a sub-genre of Indian hip-hop that focuses on the stories of the streets.
Early Life and Roots in Mumbai
Divine was born and raised in the chawls of Andheri, a densely populated neighborhood in Mumbai. Growing up in a tough environment, Divine’s early life experiences played a major role in shaping his lyrics. Raised by a single mother, he often speaks about the struggles of living in poverty and the challenges faced by the youth in India’s urban slums.
First Steps into the Music World
Divine’s love for music started with listening to international hip-hop artists like Tupac Shakur, Nas, and Eminem. However, it wasn’t until he discovered that he could channel his own struggles through music that he began rapping. His early tracks, which were in English, didn’t resonate with his community. That’s when Divine made the switch to Hindi, realizing the power of connecting with his audience in their own language.
Breakthrough with “Mere Gully Mein”
Divine’s career took off with the release of “Mere Gully Mein,” a collaboration with fellow rapper Naezy. The song, which was a raw portrayal of life in Mumbai’s slums, struck a chord with listeners across India. The music video, shot in the narrow lanes and crowded streets of Mumbai, showcased the authenticity of gully rap and made Divine a household name.
Themes in His Music
Divine’s music is deeply personal and reflects the harsh realities of his life and the lives of many others growing up in similar environments. His songs often touch on themes like poverty, inequality, and the resilience of the human spirit. Tracks like “Jungli Sher” and “Farak” illustrate his rise from the bottom and his ambition to take Indian hip-hop to the global stage.
International Recognition and Collaborations
As Divine’s popularity grew, so did his influence beyond India. He caught the attention of international music giants and collaborated with artists like Nas and even performed on the same stage as some of the biggest names in the industry. His style, which blends Hindi and English, has given him a unique voice that stands out in the global hip-hop scene.
Contribution to Bollywood
Divine’s music also made its way into Bollywood, with the 2019 movie “Gully Boy” being heavily inspired by his life. The film, which starred Ranveer Singh, brought mainstream attention to gully rap and further solidified Divine’s status as a pioneer of the genre in India. He also contributed to the film’s soundtrack, giving the world a taste of authentic Indian street rap.
The Future of Divine and Indian Hip-Hop
Today, Divine is not just a rapper but a cultural icon. He has launched his own record label, Gully Gang Entertainment, aimed at promoting emerging talent from the streets of India. With a growing fanbase, both in India and abroad, Divine continues to push the boundaries of Indian hip-hop and inspire a new generation of rappers.
A Legacy in the Making
Divine’s story is far from over. His music continues to evolve, reflecting his experiences and the changing dynamics of urban life in India. As he carves out a space for Indian hip-hop on the global stage, one thing is clear: Divine is here to stay, and his legacy as the king of gully rap is only beginning to unfold.