ASCENDING documents the historic 2023 Coachella performances of Diljit Dosanjh, Charli XCX, Ali Sethi, Jai Paul, Jai Wolf and Joy Crookes.
Jan 16, 2024 – Goldenvoice has released a short documentary that spotlights the six artists of South Asian descent that performed at Coachella 2023: Ali Sethi, Charli XCX, Diljit Dosanjh, Jai Paul, Jai Wolf, and Joy Crookes. The short film debuts today exclusively on Coachella’s YouTube: ASCENDING: South Asian Artists at Coachella 2023.
Helmed by South Asian female filmmakers Zoe Malhotra and Meghna Chakraborty, ASCENDING captures a groundbreaking moment in global music at Coachella 2023, where six South Asian artists redefine the festival experience and international music landscape. By documenting these historic performances, ASCENDING explores the range of artistic identities, musical influences, and cultural expressions that reflect the multiformity of South Asia.
The documentary includes exclusive interviews with featured artists, artist teams, festival attendees and more, in addition to never before seen backstage and onstage footage from the festival.
This is the flagship project in Coachella’s new year-round YouTube content strategy. Expect more videos from Weekend 1, Weekend 2 and beyond for more chances to relive the memories and discover new curated content in the months we’re not together in the desert.
“We’re at an exciting time where the Coachella experience is evolving to become more and more global,” said filmmakers Zoe Malhotra and Meghna Chakraborty. “We’re honored to be a part of that journey by telling this story that champions South Asian artistry across regions, religions and identities.”
On January 10, Goldenvoice hosted its first public screening for ASCENDING at The Culver Theater in Los Angeles. Notable attendees included Nik Dodani, Paravi, Rhea Raj, Ashley Mehta, Sanjoy Deb, Chaya Kumar, Shivani Bhagwan, J.Maya, Gino “The Ghost”, Iman Esmail, and more.
