Amrit Kohli

From the East African genocides of Idi Amin to sexual persecution in the United States, activist-songwriter Amrit Kohli has experienced lifetimes of conflict in the mere decades under his belt. Seeking refuge in a new country as a child then becoming entangled in the battle for personal freedom as an adult would galvanize anyone to use their voice for the betterment of humankind. Amrit’s music comes across as a harsh exhortation for revolution enveloped in a soothing psychedelic bath. Just like the life he has led, Amrit’s songs come through the lens of a duality marked by keeping an internal blissful innocence in the midst of external strife and corruption.

Never one to shy from political discourse, Amrit has actively participated in American politics, rallying his fans to join together for a peaceful planet. As a performer, he considers himself a folk populist and strives to create music that will find new meaning with every new generation of listeners from around the world. Just as his own experience witnessing and meeting the great Ani DiFranco funneled his social and political mission into music, Amrit hopes to cause such an effect on future activists and anyone who feels powerless in the face of injustice.

“I make music because it gives me a voice. I have been denied a voice all my life...I’ve done so many things, written to so many people, said so much...I don’t know what impact it’s all had, but I know it’s done something positive in the end. What I know is…all struggle is necessary. But not all struggle is worthwhile. Pick your battles, choose wisely, and forgive more than you forget.”