Indian-origin singer, songwriter, and rapper Raja Kumari has made history at the 51st American Music Awards (AMAs). She won her first-ever AMA in the Favorite Soundtrack category at the ceremony, held this week at the BleauLive Theatre in Las Vegas.
The talented artist was nominated for her contribution to the soundtrack of Arcane League of Legends: Season 2 with her song Renegade (We Never Run).
The track is among the 22 original songs for the soundtrack to the second season of the animated series titled Arcane. Renegade (We Never Run) is a collaboration between diverse music talents. Besides Raja Kumari, the track also features UK-based hip-hop artist Stefflon Don and Dominican-Brazilian artist Jarina de Marco. The soundtrack was released in November 2024. They were nominated in the category alongside the soundtracks of 'Hazbin Hotel', 'Moana 2', 'Wicked' and 'Twisters'.
Following her win, Raja Kumari told Hindustan Times: “Honestly, I’ve felt like an underdog in a lot of situations and all eyes on the underdog, which is a lyric from City Slums. I’ve always had to believe in myself, and this win just confirms that belief and encourages me further. I’m so excited to bring this home for India.”
She adds, “I put a lot of Indian flavor into the song. I included a thal and really showcased my culture. So, for this to win, it just means that the times are changing and that people genuinely love our music. I can’t wait to show the world what I have planned next.”
The Grammy-nominated artist exploded onto the Indian music scene in 2017 by partnering up with Mumbai’s DIVINE for her debut Indian single and the street anthem, “City Slums”. Born to Telugu parents, she has previously penned songs for big names from the global music mainstream, including Fall Out Boy, Timbaland, Gwen Stefani, Fifth Harmony, and rapper Iggy Azalea.
