The first time I remember hearing Divakar's name was as a snare drummer in the East Meck drumline. Even though he had graduated some seven or eight years earlier, his reputation as a drummer lived on in those hallowed halls. It just so happens that in that same year I joined my first original band. At this time I took notice of a radio program called Fox Exposures, which showcased independent local and regional artists. What a coincidence that the show was hosted by a guy named Divakar. Then it occurred to me that there was no way two guys shared the same cool name in a town like this. So the legendary drummer and the deejay were one in the same…

Divakar Shukla : Charlotte's Best Vision for Live Local Music
by Matt Carter

It was at least a decade ago that Divakar hosted that first program spotlighting regional muscians. Since then, he has proven that there is room on the airwaves for local music. The show moved to WEND 106.5 FM with the condition that Divakar would have complete control over its programming. The name changed to Ninety Minutes and still airs at 9:00 pm on Sundays, although Divakar is no longer the host. Admitting to a bit of radio burn out and a desire to broaden the horizon, Divakar joined the staff of a local television show called Indievision. While the show was a good introduction to television production and enjoyed moderate success on broadcast television, it suffered from personnel and production problems, which eventually took their toll and shut it down. However, the seed was planted and a year later Divakar was broadcasting a new show from a 10x10 room in the back of his house. The new show was called SEE THE MUSIC.

The Music Vision
The show is now called SEE THE MUSIC AND MORE, and is broadcast out of a studio in Pressly Park. Divakar originally wanted to be able to go to shows and record bands in the live setting but lighting and sound difficulties made it nearly impossible to get broadcast-quality material. So bands now have the space to perform live in the studio. Even as you read this article, the studio is growing. With the addition of a new control room and an equipment upgrade, Divakar and producer Nate Andrews are now capable of delivering "the best of both worlds, a live performance in a controlled environment". I recently had the pleasure of sitting in on a taping of Grudge, a four-piece, high energy, hard rocking outfit from Lincolnton. The environment was laid back and easygoing which definitely contributes to better performances. By incorporating independent videos from around the world and segments from Lynn Farris on regional news, SEE THE MUSIC AND MORE delivers music "from Charlotte to Seattle and beyond."

What's Next?
Firmly rooted in sound business principles and a passion for the undiscovered, Divakar and company at Shukla Entertainment are planning for expansion. They recently acquired Music Comet, a magazine devoted to the regional music scene. Plans for the show include moving to broadcast television to reach a wider market, as well as adding other entertainers, such as comedians, to broaden the viewing audience. There was even some talk of a live audience for show tapings but that would be further down the road.

For now, you can watch SEE THE MUSIC AND MORE on cable channel 58, Friday afternoons at 5:30. If you want to be considered for the show, send a press kit to:

SEE THE MUSIC AND MORE
P.O. Box 11468
Charlotte N.C. 28220

Bands can send info to the same address for review in the Music Comet.