Singer Armaan Malik recently marked 18 years in the music industry by hosting his first-ever concert at a Mumbai stadium. One standout moment from the concert was when Armaan dedicated a song to his brother Amaal Mallik, who is currently in the Bigg Boss 19 house. In an exclusive chat with mid-day, he opens up about standing by his brother, the music infrastructure in India, and reality shows.
Armaan Malik on his best concert
When asked why he planned a concert after 18 years in Mumbai, the singer asserts, “I have always believed in timing. For me, a concert, especially one at a stadium level, is not just about performing songs but about creating an experience that truly stays with people.”
Recalling how performing at Wembley Arena in London will always be his most cherished experience, Armaan says, “The energy that night was unreal, with thousands of people singing along and feeling every word. It was one of those moments when I realised how far Indian music has reached and how deeply it resonates beyond borders. I remember meeting a fan after the show who told me that my songs helped her learn Hindi. That really stayed with me.”
Armaan Malik on his struggles
Despite having industry backing, making his mark was not easy for Armaan. Reflecting on his struggles, he recalls, “Yes, I come from a musical family and I am proud of that, but at the end of the day, it is your work that defines you. No legacy can make people love your music if it does not move them. I do not let the assumptions bother me. I just keep my focus on making music that connects with people.”
Armaan started his journey as a contestant on a reality show, and years later, life came full circle when he judged one. When asked if the shows are scripted, pat comes the reply, “There is always some element of production involved because it is television at the end of the day. As a judge, I make it a point to focus on their craft and guide them in a way that helps them grow. I know what it feels like to be in their place, and that is why I try to keep my feedback honest and encouraging.”
Armaan Malik on his bond with Amaal
Just like Amaal, Armaan also credits Salman Khan for trusting his vision and giving him the biggest break of his career. Expressing adulation for him, Armaan gushes, “Salman bhai will always hold a very special place in both our journeys. He believed in us when we were just starting out and gave us one of our earliest breaks with Jai Ho. I still remember when we used to sit together and jam on songs. He was always open to experimenting with sound, ideas, and our musical vision. What really stood out to me was how he encouraged us to bring something fresh to the table instead of playing it safe. Those sessions were full of laughter, learning, and a lot of heart. Even today, whenever I meet him, it is always with a deep sense of gratitude and admiration for the faith he showed in us so early on.”
Talking about his bond with Amaal and how he stood by him during a low phase, Armaan shares, “Amaal and I share a bond that goes way beyond music. We have always been there for each other through everything, the highs, the lows, the doubts, all of it. When he was going through a tough time, my focus was simply to be there as a brother, to listen and to make sure he felt supported and understood. I think that is what family is about. Whatever happens outside, we always have each other’s backs. I am really proud of him, not just for his work, but for the person he continues to be through it all.”