By: Joshua Finley
Oakland County, MI – April 2024 – Amrit Kohli, an African South Asian American Electric Freestyle Folk Rock singer/songwriter, pacifist, and activist, announces the release of his debut album, “A Little Too Hard is…Not So Soft.”
This album captures a pivotal period in American history, spanning the period before and after the tragic events of September 11th, 2001. Featuring tracks such as “Rubber Bullets” and “Take/back, Payback,” Kohli’s music serves as a poignant reflection on the nation’s response to the War on Terror and the subsequent erosion of civil liberties. With a blend of haunting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, Kohli delivers a powerful message of hope, love, and the urgent need for change.
His music is more than just entertainment; it’s a call to action, a rallying cry for change in a world that often feels resistant to it. Kohli’s personal journey, marked by adversity and perseverance, infuses every note with authenticity and urgency. From his humble beginnings in Berkeley to his emergence as a voice for the marginalized, Kohli’s music resonates with the power of lived experience.
Kohli’s journey as a musician began in 1997 when he purchased his first guitar in Berkeley, California. Despite facing personal struggles and homelessness, he persevered, perfecting his work and sharing his music at Open Mics across the country. His experiences as an openly Queer artist navigating familial rejection and societal prejudice have deeply influenced his music, infusing it with raw emotion and unyielding determination.
“Through my music, I found my voice,” says Kohli. “I’ve always believed that all struggle is necessary, but not all struggle is worthwhile. My music is a call to action, a reminder that change is possible if we stand together and fight for what is right.”
In addition to his musical pursuits, Kohli is a passionate advocate for social justice and political reform. His championing of the ceasefire movement is rooted in principles of inclusivity, compassion, and the pursuit of justice for all. Through Queer Folk®, Inc., Kohli’s coalition of artists and musicians doubling as a record label, Kohli pledges to prioritize issues such as bringing about positive, systemic changes in policing, gun violence prevention, harm reduction centers, substance misuse support, and the promotion of diversity within the business of making art.
“I believe in a future where our communities are safe, equitable, and free from discrimination,” says Kohli. “I have worked tirelessly to dismantle systemic barriers and build a more just and compassionate society for all in everything that I do.”
Amrit Kohli stands out as a beacon of intersectionality. As a South Asian queer activist who channels his passion into music, Kohli’s story is not just unique; it’s essential to be heard.
In the landscape of activism, representation matters. Yet, the intersection of being South Asian, queer, and an activist within the music industry remains relatively uncharted territory. Kohli occupies this space not by chance but by the sheer force of his authenticity and determination.
His journey reflects the struggle and triumph of navigating multiple identities in a society that often fails to fully embrace or understand them. As a musician, Kohli’s artistry becomes a vehicle for amplifying voices that have long been marginalized and overlooked.
Kohli’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and self-expression. It’s a narrative that demands to be told, not just for Kohli himself, but for the countless individuals who see themselves reflected in his journey. As he continues to break barriers and defy expectations, Kohli serves as an inspiration and a reminder that authenticity and activism go hand in hand. With his unique blend of activism and artistry, Amrit Kohli is poised to make a lasting impact on both the music industry, the movement for Black Lives, and the ceasefire movement. As he embarks on this new chapter, he invites listeners and supporters to join him in the fight for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Published by: Martin De Juan
