Rapper Dino James started off with humble beginnings but won over fans with his relatable lyrics and distinctive storytelling. He continues to scale new heights and venture into unexplored territories, be it reallity tv or even movies. Dino sat with mid-day for a brief conversation, where he spilt the beans on his careerm the changing industry trends and his upcoming ventures.
Dino James on getting into movies
Not many know, Dino initially appeared in one of the 2009 episodes of CID before making it big in the music space. When asked if he wishes to pursue acting, he says, “Yes, 100%. I do want to get into films. I’ve been offered a lot, but nothing has really pierced my heart yet. I’m waiting for a good script and someone I look up to. “
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Further talking about reality shows, the Khatron Ke Khiladi 13 winner revealed, “There are talks going on all the time. Every year, something comes up. It depends on the vibe—whether I want to do it or not. I’m always part of Hustle, that’s my family. If something excites me, I’ll do it.” Interestingly, he has been announced as an official contestant in The 50.
The rapper further shared his 2026 plans, saying, “I’m trying to be very consistent with videos. I’m not just releasing audio anymore. My entire 2026 catalogue is ready. I’m shooting more videos and working a lot on my live band. You’ll see a glimpse in Kolkata, with a choir and a new setup.”
Dino James on Arijit Singh
During the conversation, Dino hinted that he is an Arjit Singh fan, just like many of us. When asked about a singer he would love to sing with, Arijit Singh seemed to be a no-brainer choice for him, before he added, “And Sonu Nigam. Apart from these, all the new-age singers as well.” Talking of his international favourites, he shared, “I love Post Malone. I used to love Chester (Bennington, the lead vocalist of Linkin Park). I’m looking forward to the Linkin Park zone. I love Beyoncé.”
If given a chance, what would he steal one quality or singing style from his favourite singer, we asked. To this, Dino said, “I’d steal everything from Arijit. I’d take discipline from all the OG singers. I’d like to steal texture from indie singers, the tone of Yellow Diary, Apna, and Rajan. I’d steal Rajan’s tone and voice.”
Further talking about the changing hip-hop landscape in India, he shares, “Every genre goes through transitions. People are still working hard. The influx of rappers has gone up. Popularity depends on vibe, it dips and picks up. Hip-hop will never go away because it’s the story of every household and every soul.”
