We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tushar Joshi. Check out our conversation below.
Tushar, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Honestly, I think I’d hire myself because I genuinely love what I do. Being a musician, guitar tutor, and music producer isn’t just a job for me – it’s my passion. I bring energy, creativity, and a real commitment to every project and lesson. I’m always looking to improve, learn new techniques, and push myself to deliver the best possible results. I believe my dedication, combined with my love for music and my experience, makes me someone who not only can get the job done but also bring a unique vibe and authenticity to everything I do.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello, I’m Tushar, a passionate guitarist, bass guitarist, music producer, and Berklee-certified music instructor based in Pune. My journey into music began at a young age, inspired by a diverse range of sounds—from Bollywood legends like AR Rahman and Shankar Mahadevan to Western artists like Simon & Garfunkel and The Eagles. This eclectic musical background fueled my love for creating and sharing music.
As an artist under the name “T-Jay,” I’ve released over 10 songs across streaming platforms, focusing on themes of self-motivation and social awareness. My work has been featured on Zee Music, and I’ve had the honor of performing on TV channels like Zee, Channel [V], and Songstruck, as well as being featured twice in Rolling Stone India magazine. I also write songs that aim to inspire change and foster meaningful connections.
What makes my approach unique is my holistic perspective on music education—combining technical skill with creativity, self-expression, and critical thinking. I don’t just teach notes; I help students discover their own voice and confidence through personalized lessons tailored for all skill levels. My goal is to nurture not only talented musicians but also socially conscious artists who use their craft as a tool for positive impact.
Beyond teaching, my music serves as a platform to motivate and engage listeners, encouraging them to pursue their passions and stay socially aware. I take pride in the positive influence my work has on others—whether it’s a student gaining confidence or a listener finding inspiration in my songs.
Currently, I’m working on new projects that blend my musical influences and social themes, aiming to create impactful, thought-provoking music that resonates globally. I believe that music is a powerful force for change, and I’m excited to continue sharing my journey and collaborating with like-minded individuals to make a difference.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a curious and passionate soul, driven by a deep love for music and a desire to create and connect through it. I was someone who explored various paths—working in fields from sales and call centres to backend administration—each experience teaching me resilience and adaptability. I am also a lifelong learner, which led me to earn an MBA in Finance from the University of Wales and work at Thomson Reuters in London.
But beyond titles and industries, I was fundamentally a creative spirit, someone who found joy and purpose in music and teaching guitar. Returning to India and choosing to pursue music full time was a reaffirmation of my true self—someone who values authenticity, passion, and the courage to follow one’s dreams despite societal expectations.
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was simply me—authentic, curious, and committed to living a life aligned with my passions and values.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
As a child, I found comfort and solace in my dad’s music collection, which was filled with 70s and 80s singer-songwriters and rock bands. I would put on his cassettes, press play, and listen intently. Music became my refuge—an escape that helped me calm down and feel understood, even when I was sad or scared. The melodies and lyrics had a way of soothing my emotions and giving me a sense of connection and reassurance. That early bond with music is what sparked my lifelong passion for creating and sharing it, and it remains a powerful source of comfort for me to this day.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies the music education industry in India tells itself is that it truly values and prioritizes the educators who are the backbone of meaningful learning. In reality, many companies are run by businessmen who are disconnected from the core of music, focusing instead on profit and rapid expansion. These corporate structures often sideline experienced, qualified music professionals, stifling their creativity and autonomy.
Another falsehood is the idea that large-scale, corporatized models can deliver authentic and high-quality music education. The truth is, when educators are treated as mere cogs in a machine, the quality of instruction suffers, and students miss out on the depth and nuance that true mentorship provides.
Ultimately, the industry’s biggest lie is the misconception that financial gain and quick success can replace genuine passion, expertise, and the human element essential to true music education. Without valuing and empowering the educators, the industry risks losing its soul and the very essence of what makes music education meaningful.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. I believe that true passion and purpose come from within, not from external validation. Throughout my life, I’ve faced challenges—lack of support from those closest to me and a world that often seems to favor conformity over originality. But I’ve learned that giving my best isn’t about seeking praise; it’s about honoring my craft and staying true to my vision. When you’re driven by purpose and a desire to push boundaries, external validation becomes secondary. The real reward is in knowing that I’ve stayed authentic, continuously evolved, and proved to myself that perseverance and dedication can overcome any doubt or negativity. For me, success is about fulfilling my own standards and making music that resonates, regardless of recognition. That unwavering commitment is what keeps me moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tjmusic.in
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tjayindia
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjayindia
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tjayindia
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/tjayindia
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/6yqk2LI4aK1iI8snXP
- Other: https://ampl.ink/x0Lwm
Image Credits
Image 2 – Farhad Dastoor
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