Def Leppard’s Phil Collen Shares India Inspiration

British rock band Def Leppard is preparing for its first-ever tour in India, and guitarist Phil Collen says the band has a deeper connection with the country than many fans may realise.

In a recent interview ahead of the tour, Collen said India influenced one of the band’s songs decades ago and continues to inspire him musically.

India Tour After Long Wait

Def Leppard will begin its debut tour in India on March 25 with concerts scheduled in Shillong, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

The band had earlier planned a performance in the country in 2008, but the event was cancelled. According to Collen, the band had been looking forward to performing in India for many years.

Song Inspired by Experiences in India

Collen revealed that the band’s song Turn to Dust, from their 1996 album Slang, was partly inspired by experiences he had while travelling in India in the early 1990s.

He said witnessing social divisions, including discrimination faced by some communities, left a lasting impression on him and eventually influenced the song’s theme.

Indian Classical Music Influence

During his travels, Collen also discovered Indian classical music. He recalled hearing the sound of the sarangi in a marketplace and later purchasing a recording featuring legendary musician Pandit Ram Narayan.

With permission, the band later sampled the instrument in “Turn to Dust,” giving the track a unique sound influenced by Indian musical traditions.

Plans for the Upcoming Tour

Collen said the band intends to bring the same high-energy production seen in their recent Las Vegas performances to Indian audiences.

He noted that modern concerts now involve advanced technology and immersive experiences, adding that the group aims to deliver a memorable show for fans who have waited years to see them perform live.

Personal Interest in Indian Culture

Beyond the concerts, Collen also hopes to explore more of India during the trip. He mentioned plans to visit the historic Kailasa Temple, a monument he has wanted to see during previous visits to the country.

Collen added that he admires Indian culture, food, and classical music, and believes the tour could inspire new creative ideas for the band’s future work.

Looking Ahead

Def Leppard is also working on new material that could be released in late 2026. Collen said he remains open to musical influences from different cultures, including the “Asian Underground” sound, which blends Western music with traditional Asian elements.

As the band prepares for its long-awaited India tour, Collen said he expects the experience to be emotional for both fans and the musicians themselves.