TroyBoi’s ‘Kabhi’ marks first time the vocal has been cleared for a non-Bollywood production

TroyBoi has always worn his cultural influences with pride, but his new single “Kabhi,” released via Ultra Records, is arguably his most personal work to date. The track pays tribute to one of the most recognizable voices in Indian music history: Lata Mangeshkar. Known as the “Nightingale of India,” her legacy stretches across generations, with over 30,000 recordings that defined the sound of Bollywood for more than seven decades.

On “Kabhi,” TroyBoi blends his signature exotic, bass-heavy production with Mangeshkar’s timeless vocals, originally recorded for the 2001 Bollywood blockbuster Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. The result is a cinematic and emotional experience that bridges cultures, eras, and genres.

What makes this release truly historic is that “Kabhi” marks the first time the original vocal from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham has been officially cleared for use in a non-Bollywood production. The clearance speaks to the trust and cultural weight behind TroyBoi’s tribute, underscoring the importance of Mangeshkar’s voice not only within India but as a global artistic symbol.

For TroyBoi, whose mother is from India, the song represents more than just a production milestone, as it is a personal homage to the music he grew up hearing at home. It is also a way of introducing Mangeshkar’s legacy to a new generation of global listeners, framing her iconic voice within the modern electronic industry.

“Kabhi” follows the release of “Masala,” the high-energy collaboration with Punjabi star Amrit Maan, and builds anticipation for TroyBoi’s upcoming “ROOTZ” EP on September 19, 2025. The project features a mix of legendary voices and fresh talent, including bhangra icon Jazzy B and Indo-Swiss artist BombayMami.

With “Kabhi,” TroyBoi delivers more than just a single as he offers a heartfelt moment of cultural connection. It is a track that resonates with the global South Asian audience while inviting fans worldwide to experience the timeless artistry of Lata Mangeshkar through a new lens.