From Side Gig to Center Stage: The Story of SIDE PROJECT

Peoples
The Buzz Nepal
June 20 , 2025

SIDE PROJECT is a dynamic collective of passionate musicians united by their love for creating and sharing powerful, emotionally driven rock music. Rooted in rock and layered with heartfelt lyrics and infectious rhythms, their sound is both powerful and personal. Each member brings a distinct musical background, creating a rich, collaborative energy that sets them apart. More than just a group of musicians, SIDE PROJECT is a creative force ready to take listeners on an authentic, unforgettable journey one song at a time.

How It All Started

Like many great musical ventures, SIDE PROJECT began not in a boardroom but in a jam room with a shared passion for music and an idea that refused to be ignored. The band traces its roots back to Sujan Joshi, also known as hokko, the guitarist and co-lyricist. Sujan had a few old compositions he wanted to bring to life and approached Ricky Dai, a powerful vocalist and fellow lyricist for collaboration.

From there, the band grew organically. “We started picking and choosing individuals from all different bands,” says the group. That unique composition, artists from different musical backgrounds with their own primary bands led to the birth of the name SIDE PROJECT. What began as a side gig evolved into a central part of their musical expression.

Accidental Shoots and Unexpected Laughs

Every band has stories that define them, and for SIDE PROJECT, one of the most memorable moments came unexpectedly during the shoot of their track “Chaadi Dey!”

“Everyone showed up in their joggers and shorts thinking it was just a practice session,” they laugh. But when they walked into Alchemy, their usual jam space, they were met with a full video crew. “It turned into a music video shoot out of nowhere. It was unexpected and funny at the same time!” The spontaneity of the moment perfectly captures the spirit of the band – raw, real and always up for a good time.

More Chill Than You’d Think

Despite their powerful presence on stage and the rough-around-the-edges rock vibe, the band insists they’re just a bunch of laid-back music lovers. “People say we look like a mix of stubborn oldies and a few young chaps,” they joke. “But in person, we’re chill dudes. We’d love to sip a cup of coffee and hang out with fans.” In fact, if you’re ever looking to meet them, you might just catch them at Chahal Pahal Café their unofficial hangout spot.

From Archives to Albums

Interestingly, SIDE PROJECT never set out to make a big debut. Their early releases were just a way to breathe life into archived songs that had been waiting over a decade to be heard. “We never thought of it like a debut,” they explain. “We just wanted to release what we had. But as the process went on, it became this exciting journey.” And the journey is far from over, with more tracks in the pipeline and growing momentum.

A Dream Realized

A defining moment for the band was opening for Chumbak at their album release event. “It was like an old dream come true,” they recall. The performance at Purple Haze Rock Bar, a venue known for its energy and history, marked a milestone in the band’s trajectory, one that has only fueled their desire to keep creating and performing.

What’s Next?

With a strong foundation, a love for raw, genuine music and a growing community of listeners, SIDE PROJECT isn’t just a hobby anymore, it is a passion that’s turned into a shared mission. They’re not trying to reinvent rock, but rather revive it with authenticity, collaboration and stories that strike a chord.

Whether you catch them at a local café or rocking a live venue, one thing’s for sure SIDE PROJECT is here, and they’re making noise in all the right ways.