Ashwin Sood is an accomplished musician, drummer, and producer known best for his work with his former wife, Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan. Ashwin is a name that often pops up in discussions about McLachlan’s music, but he has created his own unique identity in the music world through his drumming style, production skills, and contributions to various musical projects.
Early Years and Education
Ashwin Sood was born in Birmingham, England, on 25 September, 1967. Growing up in a family of Indian origins gave Ashwin a strong cultural influence on his work. He was attracted to rhythm and sound from a young age and often played musical instruments.
Sood later attended California State University, Northridge. He honed his skills in drumming and broadened his understanding of music theory and composition there. This is also when he got into music production.
Career Breakthrough
Ashwin Sood made his career breakthrough when he joined Sarah McLachlan’s band in the early 1990s. His spectacular drumming and creative input soon made him a key part of her musical journey. He played on several of her albums, including Surfacing (1997) and Afterglow (2003), which featured hits like Building a Mystery and Fallen.
Sood is a very subtle drummer. His complex rhythms are layered over emotional undertones. His versatility to genres and moods has made him a popular collaborator.
Sood has worked with McLachlan and worked with other artists and has contributed to various musical projects.
Personal Life
Ashwin Sood’s private life became a topic of public interest when he married Sarah McLachlan. They married in 1997, forming not only a personal bond but also a creative partnership that resulted in some of McLachlan’s most iconic work.
During their marriage, the couple had two daughters – India Ann Sushil and Taja Summer. Sood and McLachlan have remained committed to co-parenting their children despite their divorce which happened in 2008.
Beyond Drumming: A Creative Visionary
Though primarily known for his drumming, Ashwin Sood also produces music and writes songs. With an acute ear for detail and atmospheric soundscapes, he has earned accolades in the music industry.
Sood has a vision beyond the drum kit. He often arranges and produces tracks as well, bringing a holistic approach to his projects. Such thinking outside the drum kit has made him a multifaceted artist.
Legacy and Influence
Ashwin Sood’s contributions to music have left an indelible mark on the industry. He has contributed to the success of various songs as a drummer and producer, and has also helped many albums succeed.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Sood is an inspiration for his craft and his ability to handle personal and professional pressures with grace. His tale serves as a reminder of the importance of passion, perseverance, and collaboration in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
