Shweta Harve is quickly making her mark as a bold and introspective artist. After the success of her debut single, Who Are You?, which topped the World Indie Radio charts, she’s back with her latest release, Why So Busy? This powerful track dives into the challenges of modern life, asking listeners to slow down, reconnect, and reconsider the relentless hustle culture that surrounds us.

In this interview, Shweta opens up about the personal stories and observations that inspired Why So Busy?, including the loss of her mother and the growing disconnect she’s noticed in today’s hyper-digital world. She also reflects on her journey as an artist, her creative partnership with Italian composer Dario Cei, and how music has been a tool for healing and self-discovery.

Join us as we explore the heart of Why So Busy? and get to know the artist behind this thought-provoking song.

Congratulations on the release of “Why So Busy?”! This is such a powerful and introspective track. What inspired you to write this song?

Feeling unsettled after noticing people distracted by their phones mindlessly walk down the sidewalks, at airports, with families at home, at restaurants, on holidays, at parties, while driving, aimlessly glued to their devices, unable to “be” in the present moment, and hearing of a young woman whose grueling corporate work life led her to take her own life, I resolved to open the eyes and hearts of listeners who feel lost in the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives.

This song urges listeners to create a more meaningful, serene, and respectful relationship with time, people, and technology, an area where everyone seems to struggle now more than ever. Additionally, “Why So Busy?” is a touching tribute to my mother, Sheela, who loved to sing and inspired me to pursue music. “Learn to be present in any given moment,” “With my mom, there are so many moments I could have spent with her—but I was busy.

Those moments won’t come back.” With “Why So Busy?” I wish to bravely remind listeners that a life too busy to connect with others is no “badge of honor,” but instead, a burden. From Busy to “Easy”, and Busy to simply “Be”, this tongue-in-cheek and somewhat comical musical journey questions the illusion of productivity with being chronically busy and unavailable. It’s about finding peace during chaos and choosing to rest easy by being productive with purpose and intent.

Music has been a tool for healing and self-discovery in your life, especially after losing your mother. How has writing and performing helped you process such personal experiences?

Music has a powerful, cathartic effect, and for me, writing and performing have played a crucial role in processing personal experiences, especially after the loss of my mother. Music became a way for me to channel grief, emotions, and healing. It has helped me to express unspoken emotions. Writing songs is a way to articulate feelings that might be difficult to express in everyday conversation. After losing my mom, I experienced a complex mixture of sadness, anger, confusion, and even moments of joy remembering my mother. Music allowed these emotions to be transformed into something tangible. It helped me create a sense of connection.

Performing music, especially on stage and through recordings, helped me create a bond with listeners who may be going through similar experiences. It has helped to build communities of understanding, where the listener feels less isolated in their pain. It has helped in healing through vulnerability. Putting my raw emotions into a song has provided a reflective space to revisit memories, celebrate life, and act as a form of therapy.

The creative act of writing lyrics, crafting melodies, or performing live has provided a release, helping to work through emotions and build resilience over time. It has been an important step in transforming pain into strength and self-awareness for catharsis and personal growth. Overall, music has served as both a personal and public way to find healing, while also offering a way for others to connect and find healing through my music.

“Why So Busy?” delivers a bold message about slowing down and rethinking the “constant hustle.” What was your personal journey to embracing this philosophy, and how do you live it now?

The philosophy of slowing down and rejecting the constant hustle resonates deeply with me, especially in a world where productivity is often equated with success. My journey to embracing this mindset has been one of reflection, observation, and gradual shifts in priorities.

I used to focus heavily on efficiency and getting things done quickly, believing that the more I accomplished, the more valuable I would be. However, over time, I began to notice the negative effects of this approach. The constant pressure to “do more” left me feeling mentally drained and disconnected from the present moment. I also saw others around me, whether through social media or in my personal life, caught in similar cycles of stress and burnout.

The turning point for me came when I realized that true fulfillment doesn’t come from relentless productivity. It comes from taking the time to savor moments, connect deeply with others, and focus on what really matters—rather than just checking tasks off a list. I began to actively practice mindfulness, prioritize rest, and challenge myself to pause before jumping into the next project or obligation.

Now, I live this philosophy by consciously balancing work with meaningful downtime. I set boundaries to protect my time, allow space for creativity and reflection, and embrace the idea that my worth isn’t defined by how busy I am. In a society that often glorifies hustle culture, I choose to focus on living intentionally, with purpose and presence.

Your music draws inspiration from iconic bands like U2, Pink Floyd, and Coldplay. How do these influences shape your sound, and how do you bring your own unique perspective as an artist?

Inspired by rock greats such as U2, Pink Floyd, Coldplay, and many others, our sound incorporates elements of progressive rock, pop rock, and folk while standing entirely on its own. I think it is quite a risk when introducing for the first time ever, a musical journey on self-exploration that takes one through captivating imagery & melody with a progressive rock twist as in the case of our first single “Who Are You?”. Similarly, with “Why So Busy?”; we have tried to mimic a live zoom video call for the song to convey the message of busyness that people can most resonate with.

When conveying meaningful social messages like these, the music that complements the lyrics must be a unique sonic expression that lasts long after the music fades. To incorporate this, our compositions feature complex guitar riffs, nuanced drum beats, and sophisticated piano melodies, all set to a moderate rhythm designed to provide an ideal setting for the song’s reflective themes, while having a harmonious chorus to make a memorable impression on the audience.

Why So Busy?” is your second single after “Who Are You?” which reached #1 on the World Indie Radio charts. How do you feel you’ve evolved as a songwriter and performer since that first release?

After the success of “Who Are You?” at #1 on the charts, which was a collaboration with an ingenious poet Jay Krishnan, I have gained more confidence in my songwriting abilities especially to match up to Jay’s ingenuity with “Who Are You?”. I feel like I have been able to refine my voice, and the pressure of following up on a successful debut has also inspired greater creativity. “Why So Busy?” reflects a deeper exploration of my personal experiences with more complex themes, showcasing my growth as a storyteller. It has led to refinement of our sound and style, blending new influences with the foundation already established. From “Who Are You?” to “Why So Busy?”, we have experimented with different sounds, instrumentation, and production techniques to bring out new facets of our artistic identity.

The evolution from a debut single to a follow-up track often brings a shift from figuring out the audience’s response to diving deeper into one’s own personal experiences, using music as a tool for healing or reflection. I have gained new insights into songwriting—what resonates with listeners, the balance between melody and lyrics, and the pacing of a song. With “Why So Busy?”, we have included complex song structures, improved hooks, and stronger lyrical themes, resulting in a song that feels more polished and intentional. The success of our debut song has also brought us closer to our audience, allowing us to understand what resonates with our listeners.

This connection influenced “Why So Busy?” in terms of the production and emotional tone of the song. It has also resulted in broader musical exploration as we used pop rock for the song that most resonates with the audience for such a lyrical theme. In summary, the journey from “Who Are You?” to “Why So Busy?” has marked a period of growth both as a songwriter and performer. We have felt empowered to experiment with our sound, refine our craft, leading to a more mature, confident, and nuanced approach to our music.

The theme of reclaiming time and slowing down is both timely and universal. How do you personally maintain balance between work, life, and your creative process?

Maintaining balance between work, life, and the creative process is something I’ve learned to approach with intention. It’s not always easy, but over time I’ve developed strategies that help me create a rhythm that works for me.

Prioritize Boundaries: One of the biggest changes I made was setting clear boundaries. I designate specific times for work, creative activities, and personal life. By knowing when I’m “on” and when I’m “off,” I can avoid feeling like I’m constantly in a state of obligation. For example, I avoid checking emails or engaging in work-related tasks during times I’ve set aside for creative thinking or relaxation. This allows me to truly recharge.
Schedule Creative Time: Creativity requires space to bloom, so I treat it like any other priority. I schedule time for creative pursuits just as I would a meeting or deadline. Some days, the creative process flows easily, and other times, I have to make room for it even if the inspiration isn’t immediate. By giving myself permission to create, whether I feel inspired or not, I avoid the pressure of forcing it.
Embrace Flexibility: While boundaries are essential, I’ve also learned the value of flexibility. Life is unpredictable, and I don’t stress if one day, I need more time for work, or if personal matters require more attention. Having a flexible mindset allows me to pivot without guilt, and that flexibility often leads to better, more sustainable balance.
Mindful Transitions: Transitioning between activities is another strategy I use. For example, when I move from work to personal time, I take a few minutes to pause and mentally shift gears. This could be as simple as a brief walk or a few minutes of breathing exercises. By intentionally transitioning, I feel more present in whatever I’m doing—whether it’s working, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in creative endeavors.
Simplify: I’ve also embraced simplicity in my work and creative process. Instead of overcomplicating things, I try to strip away the unnecessary and focus on what truly adds value. This helps me stay energized and prevents burnout. For instance, when approaching creative work, I often limit myself to just a few tools or ideas, which sparks innovation without overwhelming me.
Practice Self-Compassion: Lastly, I remind myself that balance is a dynamic state, not a fixed destination. Some days, balance feels easier than others, and I’ve learned to be kind to myself during the times when things get out of sync. Perfection isn’t the goal—peace of mind and meaningful engagement with both work and life are.

By incorporating these practices, I’ve been able to create a more balanced approach to life, work, and creativity. It’s a constant process of reassessment and adjustment, but the more I focus on staying present and intentional, the easier it becomes to maintain harmony in these areas.

You’ve shared that “Why So Busy?” was influenced by personal experiences, including your mother’s passing and observing people lost in their devices. How did these moments shape the song’s message?

The song “Why So Busy?” is deeply shaped by personal experiences that offer insights into the complexities of modern life. The passing of my mother was a profound moment that made me reflect on the fleeting nature of time and how easily it can slip away while we are preoccupied with daily distractions. Her loss highlighted the importance of being present, cherishing relationships, and not letting time slip away unnoticed.

At the same time, observing how people around me — especially in our digital age — can become consumed by their devices and disconnected from the world around them, deepened this sense of urgency. The song speaks to the tension between being “busy” and truly being “alive.” It raises the question of whether we are spending our time meaningfully or just filling it up with tasks and distractions that don’t ultimately bring us closer to what really matters.

In essence, the song’s message calls for a moment of reflection, urging us to pause, reconnect with those we care about, and not let life’s precious moments pass by unnoticed while we’re caught in the rush of modern existence.

You’ve worked with Italian composer Dario Cei on both singles. What makes this collaboration so special, and how do you complement each other creatively?

In 2022, on a personal journey towards healing following my mother’s passing, I was looking to pair with a like-minded expressional musician on an online marketplace for freelance music-making services. Here, our unlikely musical collaboration blossomed. Starting by making soothing instrumental and meditation music designed for healing, we strived to incorporate a personal touch into our artistry and revive the golden era of music.

Virtuoso Cei’s mastery as a composer and instrumentalist is complemented by my introspective storytelling and purpose-driven vision. Our first single, “Who Are You,” a collaboration with the ingenious poet and songwriter Jay Krishnan, was widely well-received, topping both the World Indie Radio charts (#1) and the Euro Indie Radio charts (#4).

Fueled by our success and passion, we released our second and latest single, “Why So Busy?” a show-stopping musical journey written by me that questions the illusion of productivity and implores listeners to “stop and smell the roses.”

What advice would you give to others struggling with the pressures of modern life, particularly those feeling stuck in the “hustle” culture?

To those feeling stuck in the “hustle” culture, I’d offer a few pieces of advice:

Prioritize Mindful Presence: The constant push to do more, achieve more, and be everywhere can be overwhelming. But the real value often lies in the moments we’re fully present in. Try to step back and ask yourself: What truly matters to me right now? Focus on quality, not just quantity, in both your work and personal life.
Redefine Success: Modern culture often defines success in terms of productivity and external accomplishments, but true fulfillment doesn’t always align with that. Reflect on your values and what makes you feel truly alive — whether it’s time with loved ones, personal growth, or creative expression. Success should be defined on your terms, not anyone else’s.
Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no. The hustle culture thrives on saying “yes” to everything, but setting boundaries is essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Protect your time, and don’t feel guilty for prioritizing your needs.
Take Breaks: Rest and recovery are just as important as hard work. Don’t neglect your mental health or your physical health in the pursuit of success. Embrace rest, hobbies, and time away from screens. Give yourself permission to unplug and recharge.
Practice Gratitude: In a world constantly chasing the next big thing, it’s easy to overlook what you already have. Practice gratitude for the small moments, the relationships, and the progress you’ve made, no matter how incremental. It helps shift your perspective and reduces the pressure to keep hustling.
Find Your Own Pace: Life is not a race. We often compare ourselves to others, especially in the age of social media, but everyone’s journey is different. It’s okay to move at your own pace, and it’s okay to take time for yourself.

Ultimately, the pressures of modern life don’t have to define you. You have the power to carve out your own path and focus on what truly brings you peace and fulfillment.

Looking back, how would you describe your musical journey so far, and what has been your proudest moment as an artist?

Looking back, my musical journey has been one of growth, discovery, and evolution. It’s been a process of finding my voice, experimenting with different sounds, and connecting deeply with emotions and experiences that shape the music I create. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of working with talented collaborators, being inspired by various genres, and learning from both successes and setbacks. Serving as a voice to the voiceless with inspirational music on topics that require immediate attention in the world has been thoroughly gratifying.

Our first single, “Who Are You,” a collaboration with the ingenious poet and songwriter Jay Krishnan, was widely well-received, topping both the World Indie Radio charts (#1) and the Euro Indie Radio charts (#4). Our latest single “Why So Busy?” has been received very well as it continues to make ripples in the world. It has already garnered close to a million YouTube views and has received several accolades for its complex guitar riffs, nuanced drum beats, sophisticated piano melodies, and passionate vocals all set to a moderate rhythm designed to provide an ideal setting for the song’s reflective themes, while having a harmonious chorus to make a memorable impression on the audience.

The most significant part of this journey has been learning to stay true to my artistic vision while allowing myself to evolve as both a person and a musician. Each song is a reflection of where I am in life, and I feel lucky to have been able to share that evolution with others. The way music can connect, comfort, and inspire people has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of being an artist.

As for my proudest moment — there have been many, but one that stands out is when I first saw my music resonate with listeners on a deeper level. Hearing that a song I created has touched someone’s heart or helped them through a tough time is an indescribable feeling. It’s a reminder of why I do this in the first place. Ultimately, I think the most memorable moments are when I am authentic and true to my journey, and when my music has had an impact beyond just being sound — when it becomes a shared experience.