FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Trailblazer Anurag Rao Reveals the Untold Story of India’s Rapidly Evolving Music Market—and the Opportunities for Artists
HOLLYWOOD, CA – Monday, September 28, 2026 – As India becomes one of the world’s most dynamic and influential music markets, Anurag Rao—founder of Chain Reactor Music and Media, former head of talent/programming at MTV India, and music industry thought leader—joins MUBUTV’s Eric Knight and Ritch Esra for an exclusive, in-depth conversation. Airing Tuesday, September 29th on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, Rao breaks down the major shifts transforming how music, brands, and culture intersect across the Indian subcontinent.
From guiding top Bollywood acts to building groundbreaking brand partnerships, Anurag Rao candidly shares his journey navigating and shaping the business of music across India’s diverse and multilingual landscape—a region long dominated by Bollywood and cricket, but now on the brink of new artistic possibilities.
In this must-listen episode, Rao dives deep into:
The evolution and new opportunities in sync and licensing across a market where brands are finally moving beyond jingles—and why Bollywood still reigns supreme for major sync placements
How relationships and cultural context are the currency that enables music business deals in India
The rise of regional and independent artists fueled by streaming, and the barriers creatives face breaking into mainstream advertising and film/TV placements
The impact of tight budgets, copyright reform, and the realities of a market transitioning from “work-for-hire” to respecting publishing rights
His predictions for the future—from the rise of local identity in brand campaigns, to the potential impact of artificial intelligence and evolving copyright law
Ideal for musicians, executives, brand marketers, and anyone curious about India’s creative economy, this episode offers an unfiltered, insider perspective on an explosive global market.
“This is a story about transition—how India’s music business is rapidly evolving, creating unprecedented opportunity, but also presenting new challenges for artists and brands alike,” says Eric Knight. “No guest brings more insight or experience in this space than Anurag Rao, and we’re thrilled to share this with the MUBUTV audience.”
Catch the full interview with Anurag Rao, premiering Tuesday, September 29th, exclusively on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast.
For more information on MUBUTV, contact:
John Sanders at:
Phone: 424.245.0416
Website: www.mubutv.com
Ritch Esra & Eric Knight are available for interviews across all media.
ABOUT MUBUTV
MUBUTV™ | Music Business Television is an online music business channel featuring news, original programming, and interviews with leading experts in the music industry. Its mission is to educate, empower, and engage musicians and industry professionals of the twenty-first century.
About MUBUTV’s Music Business Insider Podcast:
The video series takes a deep dive into the many challenges and nuances of building a viable and sustainable career in today’s new music business. Guests have included music attorney and author Donald Passman, producer Mike Clink [Guns N’ Roses], A&R legend John Kalodner, independent artist Ari Herstand, and more. Hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight, co-founders of the platform.
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