Bollywood Passion: Ian Cris Tocle's Musical Journey

Ian Cris Tocle Bollywood music journey

Twenty-year-old Filipino expatriate Ian Cris Tocle recently found himself immersed in two of his greatest passions: cosplaying and music-making, as he graced the stage at the Middle East Film and Comic Con in Abu Dhabi. Clad in the guise of the villainous 'Pain' from the beloved anime series Naruto, Tocle captivated the audience with renditions of songs from various anime and video games. However, the highlight of his performance came when he unexpectedly launched into a Hindi number, "Balam Pichkari," igniting the crowd with excitement.

Tocle's journey into the realm of Bollywood music stems from his love for diverse musical genres. He recalls encountering the viral hit "Tum Hi Ho" on YouTube during his younger years, which sparked his interest in Bollywood tunes. This fascination led him to participate in the renowned Indian reality show, Zee TV's Asia's Singing Superstar, alongside his friend Yasmina Alidodova. Together, they mesmerized the audience with renditions of Bollywood classics such as "Tum Hi Ho," "Badtameez Dil," and "Do Lafzon Ki Hain," earning the opportunity to perform before esteemed judges like Shankar Mahadevan and Shafqat Ali.

Despite his limited understanding of Hindi, Tocle possesses a remarkable ability to articulate the lyrics of Bollywood songs with precision. He attributes his fondness for Bollywood tracks to his exploration of diverse musical cultures and the influence of his Indian friends. Moreover, his immersion in gaming, particularly experiences like playing Genshin Impact, which incorporates traditional Indian instruments like the bansuri, tabla, and sitar, has deepened his appreciation for Indian music.

As a versatile musician proficient in vocals, violin, guitar, piano, and drums, Tocle is currently engrossed in a significant endeavor: the creation of his debut album. This forthcoming album promises to blend orchestral and EDM elements with ethnic instruments, reflecting Tocle's diverse musical influences and innovative approach to music production. While the release date for his album remains uncertain, Tocle finds fulfillment in pursuing his passion for music on his own terms, relishing the creative freedom afforded by his artistic endeavors.