I Use Auto-Tune in Certain Songs of Mine”: Sonu Nigam’s Candid Admission on Komal Nahta’s Game Changers: The Music Series

Renowned music trade analyst Komal Nahta has launched a new season of his podcast, Game Changers: The Music Series, focusing on the journeys, techniques, and unspoken realities of India’s most iconic singers, composers, and music directors. In the latest episode, legendary playback singer Sonu Nigam made an appearance, offering an unreserved look at how digital tools have reshaped modern music production.

Widely respected for his classical training and pitch accuracy, Nigam addressed the ongoing debate around pitch-correction software. Contrary to traditional criticism surrounding the tool, the veteran singer offered a pragmatic perspective, acknowledging that he uses Auto-Tune on select tracks to match the precise requirements of today's digitized recording standards.

Explaining the shift, Nigam highlighted how music production has transformed from the era of live orchestral arrangements—where instruments like the sarangi and strings had natural acoustic fluctuations—to present-day digital tracks built on strict, razor-sharp frequencies. In a fully digitized audio landscape, an uncorrected raw vocal track can easily sound out of place against perfectly tuned electronic instruments, making subtle technical adjustments necessary.

While acknowledging the practical role of pitch correction, Nigam stressed that the technology must be used responsibly. He stated that Auto-Tune should serve to polish a strong vocal foundation rather than fabricate ability for non-singers. Addressing non-musicians and actors who utilize vocal processing to record tracks, Nigam added that while everyone should enjoy creative pursuits, processing tools can never replace genuine vocal mastery and lifelong musical practice.

Game Changers: The Music Series continues to offer in-depth conversations with leading musical figures, streaming on its official YouTube platform.