Rhythm of Love: Inconversation with Imli K Imchen

Imli K Imchen is often likened to country singer Don Williams by those closely associated with him and his music but he relates more with Jim Reeves. Imchen, who is more into country music, says in an interview with Eastern Mirror that he is also trying to follow other genre of music liked by the present generation.

EASTERN MIRROR: What is your musical background? Talk us through your musical journey.

Imli K Imchen: Well, I didn’t have any basics training on music, whether singing or playing some instruments; of course later, when I was at the age of maybe 14 or 15 (I don’t remember exactly), I tried to learn few chords of guitar by watching people play. I grew up listening to country songs, especially Don Williams and so I was greatly influenced by his sweet magical voice. I tried to copy him (in singing). Later in my life, I started singing in the Churches and in school chapels and in some social gatherings. Gradually, people came to know me and started calling me “Don Williams” though these days there are many Don Williams (laughs). But I believe I’m “The Naga Jim Reeves”. But I’m also trying my best to get along with today’s generation, so I’m trying to follow new music trends.

EASTERN MIRROR: How do you describe your music to people new to you?

I am more into country Rock, country Pop and traditional country songs; also pop songs. So that defines me and my music.

EASTERN MIRROR: What are your fondest musical memories?

I would say that some of my fondest musical memories were playing with the “Novel Instinct” in 1990s and last year with the “MW ASSEMBLED BAND”. Especially playing with (MWAB) was the turning point for me; where I got the privilege and honour to meet well-known musicians from Dimapur, Nagaland.

EASTERN MIRROR: You are also a member of a band. Which one is easier for you? Working as a band or solo? And why?

Well for time and hassle-free, Solo is much easier for me but not like playing live with a band because we get the real raw sounds! That feeling is very different from performing a solo; it makes me feel more energetic.

EASTERN MIRROR: What are the challenges and rewards that come from working as a musician?

The challenges that I face as a musician, first of all, is struggle with the discipline of practice and musical development. Secondly, travelling is a great adventure, but without proper rest and timely food is stressful and boring.

The rewards for being a musician is that, it brings happiness and joy, (it) gives you a sense of achievement, connecting with the audience which brings joy, and meeting new people.

EASTERN MIRROR: What inspires you and what makes you want to keep promoting music?

Things that I see happening around me, which gives me a sense of joy (in a positive way) – they inspire me.

Let me tell you in the simplest way why I want to keep promoting music. Through music I came to know people, and through music we can express our feelings. Music is part of our lives; music can touch every heart, and it has no barriers.

EASTERN MIRROR: What are you up to currently? Any project in the offing?

Right now, I don’t have any, but by the middle of the year I believe our MW BAND will perform again.