“It took me 20 years to find Simbad. Definitely one of my favourite djs and producers.” Gilles Peterson BBC Radio
Constantly travelling between Europe, Asia, Africa or The Americas, Simbad’s exceptional sense of groove has built him a solid reputation among his peers, making him one sought after DJ on the international circuit.
He has developed as a producer and remains an in demand remixer, showcasing a large music culture ranging from jazz to reggae, funk to hip hop, dub to garage & deep house via techno & soul. Recent albums and production work include the well received , Roots Manuva, Mala In Cuba album, Gilles Peterson, Michel Cleis, Coldcut, L-Vis 1990 & Bok-Bok, Quantic, Cooly G, Atjazz, Jose James, Raoul K, Ben Westbeech, Grems, Fred P and many more.
THC: What inspires you and why?
Simbad: Movement inspires me. Travelling, meeting new people, seeing new places. That’s how I get to learn the most and when life experiences are richer. That’s what music is for me… Movement.
THC: How did you get into your business?
Simbad: Luckily I knew from an early age that I had a good ear and that I was meant for music. So I started an early career as a musician and got to produce, play and work with some amazing people in the industry. My passion has grown as a business in a very natural way and I have a great team of people that I can rely on.
THC: What are you working on right now?
Simbad: Producing new albums for a few artists forthcoming on labels like Brownswood, Gilles Peterson’s home. I’m also keeping very busy in the studio as well as performing left & right as a dj. Sharing music and making people dance is very special.
THC: How do you see your space evolving?
Simbad: Again very naturally. The universe is in constant expansion so I guess we are too…
THC: Who’s your hero or icon?
Simbad: My mother. An incredible scientist who’s constant quest has been to learn and spread the knowledge. She hasn’t been afraid to take on challenges in her life. Also some of my friends are heroes to me, known or unknown.
THC: Where’s your favourite spot around the world?
Simbad: Mmmmh that’s a tough one! I love Cuba (having had the chance to work there many times) , Japan of course, South Africa, California too. Maaaaan I could go on and on… Love my London though.
THC: What’s your favourite injection of culture into a brand?
Simbad: When it’s done genuinely and in a way where the content is real and the message is positive, then I guess we’re onto a solid collaboration. I recently recorded the Havana Cultura album for Gilles Peterson and that had an association with Havana Club. havana-cultura.com
