Niles Hollowell-Dhar, professionally known as KSHMR, is a talented producer of big room electro-house music with a strong influence from his Indian roots. Originating from California, he initially gained recognition as a member of the pop-rap duo, the Cataracs, where he co-produced hits for renowned artists like Far East Movement, Dev, Snoop Dogg, and New Boyz in the early 2010s. Transitioning from the mainstream pop scene, he introduced his electronic dance music persona, KSHMR, in 2014, starting with an anonymous debut and later revealing his identity in 2015. Throughout his career, he has launched numerous singles and collaborated with top DJs such as Tiësto, Hardwell, and R3hab, in addition to releasing EPs like Paradesi, The Lion Across the Field, Materia, and his latest full-length album, Harmonica Andromeda in 2021.
Born in Berkeley, California, in 1988, Niles Hollowell-Dhar, a blend of Indian and American heritage, attended Berkeley High School where he crossed paths with aspiring rapper David Benjamin Singer-Vine. Initially engaging in a creative rivalry, the duo unexpectedly formed the Cataracs in 2003. Their musical journey took flight with various releases and collaborations, eventually landing them a record deal with Universal Records in 2010. Their remarkable productions included chart-topping tracks like ‘Like a G6,’ ‘Wet,’ and ‘Backseat,’ solidifying their status in the music industry. Following the exit of Singer-Vine in 2012, Hollowell-Dhar continued to excel, collaborating with renowned artists like Martin Solveig, Kyle, Selena Gomez, Sean Paul, and Robin Thicke. Embracing a new musical direction in 2014, he ventured into the electronic dance music scene under the alias KSHMR, releasing chart-topping tracks and mesmerizing audiences with his fusion of Indian influences into his music.