**Global Music Icons Embrace India's Vibrant Scene: Coldplay and Ed Sheeran Headlining Concerts**

India's burgeoning music scene is set to be revolutionized as icons like Coldplay and Ed Sheeran announce major concerts.

In recent years, Indian music fans have often lamented the lack of visits from top global artists. The familiar refrain of “Please come to my city!” resonates with many, as international names like Sabrina Carpenter and Arctic Monkeys frequently chart on Spotify, while Ed Sheeran’s album ÷ (Divide) enjoys an astonishing 217-week reign. However, the tides are shifting, with Dua Lipa’s recent performance in Mumbai going viral and Coldplay preparing for their first tour in nearly a decade, with two shows expected to draw over 100,000 attendees in Ahmedabad.

The landscape for live performances in India is becoming increasingly attractive, underscored by an 18% growth in sales reported by ticketing platform BookMyShow in 2024. The youthful demographic of India's 1.4 billion population is a significant draw for artists, according to marketing expert Dr. Sourindra Banerjee from Leeds University Business School. As India’s music industry is projected to double its worth from £178 million to £346 million by 2026, the potential for international musicians is evident.

Recent developments, such as the ascent of K-pop within India, have led major music labels to recognize the vast opportunities in the Indian market. Dr. Banerjee suggests that collaborations with Indian artists not only allow foreign musicians to break into the diverse Indian audience but also connect them with the large Indian diaspora abroad.

For local artists, the presence of international acts can mean newfound opportunities. Aspiring singer Anoushka Maskey, who has been creating music since 2020, views the influx of global stars as a chance for increased visibility. She cites her own experience opening for Brit Award winner Ben Howard as inspiring and emblematic of opportunities that previously seemed beyond reach.

Similarly, independent artist Anumita Nadesan expresses hope that collaborations with prominent figures can boost the profiles of local musicians. She remarks on how attending concerts featuring international acts provides invaluable learning experiences that can shape their growth.

Bangalore-based pop artist Frizzell D’Souza emphasizes the relatable journey of artists like Ed Sheeran, who rose from humble beginnings to stardom. She believes international performances foster cultural exchange, as seen with Indian rapper Hanumankind, who has made global strides alongside established artists like A$AP Rocky.

However, potential pitfalls accompany this surge in big-name tours. D’Souza warns of audiences prioritizing larger acts and possibly neglecting emerging talent. Nadesan concurs, suggesting that the spotlight on world-renowned artists could overshadow local acts, though she believes this may drive smaller artists to elevate their productions.

Journalist Peony Hirwani of Rolling Stone India reflects on how the integration of local support acts in major concerts, such as G-Eazy's tour, can amplify the careers of Indian performers. She advocates for enhancing infrastructure to attract even bigger celebrities like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, who have yet to tour in India. Hirwani highlights the current limitations of venues, primarily used for cricket, which hinders year-round concert hosting.

As the Indian concert scene evolves, the need for improved infrastructure remains critical to ensure that both international and local talents can thrive in this vibrant market. Continued growth may open doors for an even brighter future in India's live music landscape.