April 2011
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Musician Nitin Sawhney reveals what’s in his suitcase
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Nitin Sawhney photographed at his recording studio in Brixton
Andrea Artz
My acoustic guitar is my most travelled possession. I've had it almost 30 years. Although it wasn't expensive, it's priceless to me and has survived some mad experiences. When I'm travelling, I like to play my guitar at 4.30am. It's an amazing ritual and at that time it's so quiet I can hear the sounds of the land.
I've got a sweet tooth so I need something sugary on hand at all times. I've recently got into agave nectar as it is much better for you.
I like to stay productive on flights so it would be a disaster if I left my laptop behind. It functions as a mobile studio so I can play around with beats or record music.
I love travelling with the entire band. It's really important to make sure that the people I tour with are not only brilliant musicians but relaxed about being on the road.
When I heard the crowd singing along to my song Nadia in Hindi I knew the Portuguese were serious about their music. Transcending barriers in order to feel the emotion in music is exactly why it is a universal language.
Nitin Sawhney launches his new album Last Days of Meaning with a concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London on 6 May. royalalberthall.com
