Ricky Kej: From Jingles to Environmental Anthem – A Musical Journey

Ricky Kej, a celebrated musician, has transitioned from creating commercial jingles to composing music that addresses critical environmental issues. At the Sustainability Summit, he shared his journey, emphasizing the power of music as a universal language for change. After winning a Grammy for his sustainability-focused album, Kej was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to dedicate his work to environmental advocacy. He collaborates with various artists to raise awareness about climate change, highlighting the plight of vulnerable communities. Kej practices sustainability in his daily life and believes in the importance of protecting nature for future generations. His story is a testament to how music can inspire action and foster a deeper connection with the environment.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 22, 2026, 22:54 IST

Ricky Kej's Musical Transformation

At the recent Sustainability Summit, acclaimed musician Ricky Kej shared his inspiring evolution from crafting commercial jingles to composing impactful music centered on environmental themes. In a discussion with Jaka Jacob, the managing editor of Time, Kej reminisced about his extensive 13-year tenure in the advertising sector. He highlighted music's unique ability to serve as a universal medium that conveys messages and engrains them in the audience's consciousness. This insight prompted him to shift his focus towards creating music that tackles urgent issues, particularly those related to sustainability and climate change.

His dedication to environmental advocacy was further reinforced when he won his first Grammy Award in 2015 for an album dedicated to sustainability. This milestone led to a meeting with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who encouraged him to concentrate on music that aligns with his values and environmental concerns. Kej articulated how he leverages music as a catalyst for change, performing at both intimate gatherings for world leaders and large-scale festivals, with the goal of inspiring action against climate change. He believes that addressing environmental challenges requires both top-down initiatives and grassroots movements.

Over the years, Kej has collaborated with numerous artists, including Grammy-winning drummer Stewart Copeland, to create music that raises awareness about environmental issues. He brought attention to the struggles faced by Kiribati, a Pacific island nation threatened by rising sea levels due to climate change. His performances at global platforms, such as the United Nations, have sought to highlight the urgent need for action and amplify the voices of those most affected by climate change. He stressed that climate change is not a future concern but a pressing crisis impacting vulnerable communities around the globe.

Beyond his musical pursuits, Kej embodies sustainability in his everyday life by tracking his carbon footprint and making conscious choices, such as opting for public transport and steering clear of fast fashion. He champions a return to traditional practices that foster harmony with nature, asserting that sustainable living is not a modern concept but one deeply rooted in ancient cultures. In closing, Kej expressed his belief that the true citizens of India are its forests and wildlife, urging everyone to honor and safeguard the environment for future generations.