Goa, Oct. 21 -- Elsa Angel Rose

When you're an artiste in the making, gigs-weekly or monthly-are your proving grounds. You pour your heart into the performance, but often walk away with little more than applause. Not because you weren't good, but because you weren't paid fairly.

Promises like "Food is on us" or "Travel is covered" have become standard in Goa's live music scene. But free meals and rides don't cover rent, bills, or everyday expenses. Many young musicians find their struggles unseen, or worse, ignored. Respect and recognition often come only after fame arrives-but who supports artists when they're still building their craft?

As the demand for independent and regional music rises through streaming platforms, social media v...