How Did I Become the First Dhol Player in Strictly History?

Josh Kapur, a talented TikTok musician from Wolverhampton, has made history as the first dhol drum player to perform on the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. His performance accompanied actress Balvinder Sopal and professional dancer Julian Caillon during their Punjabi Bhangra Couple's Choice dance, showcasing the vibrant rhythms of the dhol.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Josh Kapur's appearance on Strictly Come Dancing marks a significant cultural milestone, blending traditional Punjabi music with mainstream entertainment. The 19-year-old musician expressed gratitude to social media, particularly TikTok, for the opportunity that arose after Ed Sheeran shared one of his dhol performances. This moment not only highlights his personal achievements but also brings greater visibility to the dhol community and Punjabi culture.

Key takeaways

• Josh Kapur is the first dhol player to perform on Strictly Come Dancing.
• His performance was part of Balvinder Sopal's Couple's Choice dance.
• Social media played a crucial role in his rise to prominence.

Timeline: how we got here

Josh Kapur's journey has been remarkable, with key milestones including:

• 2021: Kapur begins sharing dhol performances on TikTok.
• October 2023: Ed Sheeran shares Kapur's TikTok video, leading to increased visibility.
• October 2023: Kapur performs on Strictly Come Dancing, making history.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Josh Kapur's performance on Strictly Come Dancing introduces audiences to the dhol, enhancing the show's diversity. His appearance has sparked discussions about cultural representation in mainstream media.

What was already established

Prior to this, Kapur had gained a following for his engaging TikTok videos, where he showcased his dhol skills. The importance of social media in connecting artists with broader audiences has been increasingly recognised.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Kapur's performance offers a fresh perspective on cultural representation in media. It may encourage more diverse programming and appreciation of traditional music forms, potentially influencing future television productions.

Businesses and jobs

The visibility of dhol music may inspire local businesses to incorporate traditional instruments in events, creating opportunities for musicians like Kapur. It could also lead to increased interest in cultural events and performances.

Policy and regulation

Kapur's performance could prompt discussions among policymakers about cultural representation and support for ethnic minorities in the arts, leading to potential initiatives aimed at promoting diverse talent.

Numbers that matter

• 300,000: Approximate number of Kapur's TikTok followers before his Strictly performance.
• 1: The first dhol player to perform on Strictly Come Dancing, marking a significant cultural moment.
• 7: Days Kapur rehearsed for the performance, reflecting the dedication required for live television.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Dhol: A traditional double-headed drum from the Indian subcontinent, commonly used in Punjabi music.
• Punjabi Bhangra: A lively form of folk music and dance originating in the Punjab region, often associated with harvest celebrations.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Kapur may receive further opportunities for performances as his profile grows, along with increased engagement on social media platforms.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Expect to see Kapur collaborate with other artists, potentially leading to recordings or performances at cultural festivals.

Signals to watch

• Increased follower count on social media platforms as Kapur continues to gain recognition.
• Potential announcements regarding future performances or collaborations.

Practical guidance

Do

• Follow Kapur's social media for updates on his performances.
• Engage with local cultural events to support artists from diverse backgrounds.

Don’t

• Don’t overlook the significance of cultural representation in the arts.
• Don’t miss out on learning about traditional music forms like dhol.

Checklist

• Check social media for Kapur's future performances.
• Explore local events featuring traditional music and dance.
• Engage with content that promotes cultural diversity.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Kapur's rise is promising, the sustainability of his success will depend on continued public interest and opportunities within the music industry. Additionally, the dynamics of social media can be unpredictable, and public attention may shift quickly.

Bottom line

Josh Kapur's historic performance on Strictly Come Dancing has opened doors for cultural representation in mainstream media, reflecting a growing appreciation for diverse musical traditions in the UK. As he continues to pursue his passion, the dhol community gains visibility, inspiring future generations. Kapur's journey serves as a reminder of the power of social media in connecting talent with opportunities.

FAQs

Who is Josh Kapur?

Josh Kapur is a 19-year-old musician from Wolverhampton known for his dhol performances on TikTok, with nearly 300,000 followers.

What is a dhol?

The dhol is a traditional double-headed drum popular in Punjabi music, often used in festive celebrations and dances.

How did Kapur get the opportunity to perform on Strictly Come Dancing?

Kapur's opportunity arose after Ed Sheeran shared one of his TikTok videos, leading actress Balvinder Sopal to seek him out for her performance on the show.