User:Desigtown/Gtown desi

Gtown Desi are a Scottish based Asian music collective on the verge of releasing their debut album, ‘’1134’ & recognised for their hosting of exclusive events as well as their involvement within the Urban Asian market. Created during the commencement of 2008, the group, noted for their unique approach to event organisation, responded to the negative outcry from revellers previously presented with Asian/Bhangra events associated with soaring levels of nightlife hostility. Additionally, gender ratios displaying figures favouring male attendees further damaged event reputations failing audiences and concluding the existence of many promotional companies.

In recognising and understanding individual needs, the faction re-shaped and re-developed a scene built on specific factors significant to attendees whilst generating brand and key associations to Asian gatherings (Secrets).

Whilst acclamation was shown forth for efforts in tackling such issues, GTD were further acknowledged throughout 2008 sharing stage with many industry stamped names during festival gatherings as well as showcase performances throughout the UK.

Musically, with considerable distribution of the mixtape series (Volume 1-28), radio hosting (The Weekend Warm Up & Pulse 98.4) and production accreditation (‘1134’), ‘Gtown Desi’ are readily available for market consumption.

The 5 individuals combined to create the essence of the team each hold varying qualities demonstrating as to why the functioning of such an assemblage has been up till this stage, ever so dominant.

MEMBERS

DJ Bobby B

A background stemming from Asian music culture, Bobby B initiated his musical path at 14 nearing himself amongst his peers prominent within the performance area in aligning alongside the “Desi Krew Roadshow”. Gaining the experience necessary into fulfilling his R’n’B interest, the trail continued 3 years later securing several residencies amongst renowned Scottish nightclubs.

Bearing interest in music production, a degree course in music technology was undertook (1999) which later paid dividends to future projects.

An unofficial CD release of critically acclaimed “Da B Side” forged both urban genres with culturally enriched Bhangra generating such unforeseen hype expanding musical possibility.

A brief encounter with Channel 4 production, ‘UK Flava’ including several appearances within ‘T-In the Park’ VIP tents further expanded the seal of opportunity leading onto many commercial projects.

At age 21, Bobby successful ventured into MTV /Radio 1 territory in claiming the title of youngest ever Scottish DJ to perform alongside Trevor Nelson at highly legendary party events, ‘MTV Lick’ & Radio 1 ‘Rhythm Nation Parties’. Furthermore, media related performance at the Scottish Mobo Awards and Beat 106 (Galaxy FM Scotland) parties hoisted the name to new heights.

Performance associations noteworthy at this point included Tim Westwood, Chris Goldfinger, Lethal B, Jay Sean, Jamelia, Kray Twinz, Tigerstyle, Jazzy B, Malkit Singh, Harvey, and Bobby Friction & Nihal to mention a few.

With ever-growing success, focus was diverted towards a 6 year running residency in conjunction with ‘The Explicit Licks Street Team’ hosting a stream of successful events across Glasgow city.

Throughout this period, career options increased as Scotland’s only Asian radio station, Awaz FM, made a formal approach in the hope of attracting the DJ in hosting a clinical Bhangra show showcasing all elements true to the genre. The opportunity was seized with varying show titles executed in bringing forth the mixture of Urban Asian elements to Scottish airwaves.

2005 saw the past study of music production utilised as a combined connection between Bobby & Jay Jagpal confirmed the duo’s signing to UK Asian music label, VIP Records LTD, chart topping with Bhangra / Desi hit, ‘Teri Tor Vekh Ke’.

A temporal move to London from 2007 for 1 year presented opportunity to build musical network instrumental in discovering a formula for success musically and event wise. DAB radio station, Asian FX, targeted the talent in drafting in an individual with a unique understanding of both urban genres including a wide spanning knowledge of music typical of Asian influence.

At present, the release the long awaited debut album ‘1134’ is due for release during March 2010.

Jay Jagpal

Regarded as a versatile individual, Jay Jagpal has an association with many musical areas complimenting his industry status “the man with many talents”.

Initiating his musical career, involvement within school shows (choir) at age 5 began the journey allowing him to develop and discover areas in which he felt able in prospering.

Rhythm was evidently present performing for local bands throughout high school as a drummer only to later merge talent culturally into Asian instrumentation. The role of dhol player was adopted savouring influence from old and contemporary Asian music. Consequently, plaudits labelled him, ‘Scotland’s No.1 Dholi’.

Drive and enthusiasm when placed with a dhol was unprecedented, displaying his natural love for instrument visually and melodically as dancing was further incorporated into the set. Within Scotland, Jay remains a player capable of playing in accord with DJ’s remaining aware of rhythm and tempo.

In performance at celebratory events, dhol ultimately evolved into deck and the role of DJ was now assumed. Roadshow / club events provided another platform to showcase the variety of talent across UK venues industry filled names including Punjabi MC, Dr Zeus, Juggy D, Aman Hayer, B21, and Jazzy B amongst others.

As noted with DJ Bobby B, Jay also found an additional area within radio. A small stint with a fellow Glasgow presenter then paved path for Jay & Bobby to combine abilities in hosting ‘The Weekend Warm Up’ on Awaz FM.

Following the accomplishment of number single ‘Teri Tor Vekh Ke’ (VIP Records LTD), the highly anticipated release of ‘1134’ awaits.

Other such talents are cited as beat boxing and Mcing. Future projects predicted include solo album.

Oz-E

‘Desi Krew DJs’ paved the musical route for DJ Oz-E during 1996 navigating through various stages in conjunction within the areas of the club and Roadshow sector.

Learning trade and industry with constant musical progression led to the creation of several renowned Bollywood mixtapes as well as small productions.

Demonstrating knowledge across both Bhangra and Bollywood fronted the first ever ‘Urban Asian Radio show’ on Awaz FM alongside Bobby B. The show, ‘Desi Licks’ became an instant hit throughout Scotland effectively exposing and initiating a market currently untapped.

At present, many roles are partaken within collective Gtown Desi. Creativity is apparent as graphic creator producing the entire mixtape series covers. Furthermore, photography has also been adapted in capturing images at each and every event. Music still remains central as performance takes form in the shape of Roadshow occurrences merging melodic overtones of Bollywood and Bhangra.

With these particular influences, current project undertaking involves the creation of a solo album. As yet, little is known about the venture however the fusion of urban and Asian genres look set to propel the name commercially into the UK market.

Mr VIN  Mr VIN being the youngest affiliate within the team found course performing warm up for Bhangra acts Dr Zeus and Punjabi MC within Glasgow city.

Locating a basic DJ set up several years prior found him his ultimate drive in merging music melodically suited based around commercial R’n’B & Hip Hop. However, a significant desire to blend in Bhangra based beats always remained, yet without access of backdated vinyl, the vision remained broken.

Technology paid dividends towards the fall of 2005 as Serato Scratch Live was discovered paving new hope to experiencing the amalgamation of both Asian and contemporary urban music.

The purchase helped to apprehend the yearning and so forth brought Mr VIN (previously known as DJ Vinny) to the attention of his peers.

A rare connection with Bobby B helped to develop an aspiring relationship with both sharing a passion for many musical styles, east and west. The appearance on such high profile bills was then made actively possible thus opening several doors.

Radio, not being an apparent interest, brought out a new character in VIN allowing him to churn out and develop his inner self. Linking up with Jay Jagpal and Bobby B for ‘The Weekend Warm Up’ proved yet to be another beneficial factor as DJ Gully also made way for Scottish airwaves.

Gigs and events began ever so more as an occurrence either slotting as warm up DJ or main set selection. An understanding with audience was becoming increasingly visible as the art of crowd awareness was slowly but surely absorbed. Highlights included BBC Radio 1’s ‘Bobby Friction & Nihal’ support act.

Several mixed compilations were then unofficially released blending both R’n’B and Bhangra with several DJ techniques presented in delivering a product quite unlike anything within market place.

Sufficient effort and performance had been apparent as his inclusion into Gtown Desi was made official shortly after the commencement of 2008.

DJ Gully

With a short spanning interest in music prior to the evolution of DJ role, Gully had all but set sights on the trail for a career in art & design. However, an introduction to college allowed further search on something worth craving for as a lifetime goal.

A brief introduction to commercial Rap in the form of distinguished acts such as P Diddy and more notably 2Pac presented the ear with art and content with meaning and sole purpose. Curiosity with the expansion of Internet accessibility allowed for the absorption of many acts past and present reigning from both R’n’B and Hip Hop genres, US based.

Moreover, an opportunity to experience music filled with such edge in the form of nightclub environment further developed an increasing attraction. With a growing familiarity of local club DJs, the awareness in which emotion created by DJ to individual was physically observed and essentially appreciated. The concept confirmed the prospect of trawling for a basic DJ set up in order to deconstruct a primary mix in corroborating whether the art may present a rewarding hobby.

Needless to say, a year further verified all with the transition into a professional set up and increase in home practice. With opportunities bare and slim, an opening in the form of local nightclub developed within a commercially sponsored competition event. Runner up was received highlighting the individual’s ability within initial professional performance (2005).

Several residences were ultimately held within Glasgow city followed by a release of mixtape series ‘Keepin’ Gully’ Volume 1.

During early 2006, Gully showcased his wide ranging urban music knowledge in appearing in BBC 1xtra’s ‘Toppa Top Selecta’ final with DJs Ace & Vis following the defeat of several contestants in a competition open to the entire UK. The outcome once again stated runner up.

Musical playlist then swayed from commercial Hip Hop further verging towards underground electronic music form, Grime. Influenced highly from stations based down south, a webzine followed by highly commended CD release, ‘The Grime Report’, showcased the versatility of DJ and cultural awareness of UK urban music.

Future performances during 2007 saw warm up slots within billings hosting artists Wiley, Tinchy Stryder (Love Music, Hate Racism) & Lethal B.

The year topped off with inclusion into the present format of ‘The Weekend Warm Up’ concluded the session.

2008 provided many opportunities in bolstering radio experience with highlights including an exclusive interview with recent ‘Cash Money Records, signing, Jay Sean.

An appearance on DJ Kayper’s show aired in Jan 09 on digital station, BBC Asian Network, saw him competing in the weekly feature, ‘The Mixtape Challenge’.

A 2 month stint at BBC 1xtra working as BA assistant gave him the opportunity to work alongside recognised station DJs, Rampage.

EVENTS

Throughout their debutant year, the collective attracted all major promoters in gaining several bookings noteworthy of popularity and cultural significance. Including the unique line of gatherings, ‘Secrets’, many public/commercial performances were conducted in leading to such high profile recognition as today’s current musical climate suggests.

Celebrating major religious dates, events were held in appreciation including Vaisakhi which saw the clique share stage allocation with documented Bhangra industry acts, Aman Hayer & Tigerstyle.

Diversifying their target audience / genre, student like surroundings provided a Bollywood showcase further expanding market attraction within many Scottish student unions.

The Mela, widely regarded as a multi-cultural festival held within large country parks hosted Gtown both within Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh & of course, Glasgow. Being the first occasion to perform during festival period strengthened the ever-growing brand presenting themselves purposefully in front of large crowds. The official after party based in Glasgow city centre became a joint affair between Gtown (Urban) & Gtown Desi.

Specialist showcase events, specifically, ‘Ladies only’ admission, additionally stretched their market appeal performing with vocalists H Dhami & Des-c.

During the latter half of 2008, London grew aware of activities north and responded with several bookings in conjunction with acknowledged Asian events.

Within 2009, ‘Secrets’ continued it’s success, the team also played within one of Glasgow’s many MOBOs afterparties and began their venture of ‘Scot-Light’ towards the end of 09.

SECRETS

‘Secrets’ being a gathering of individuals within small intimate venues began as a formal response to the current climate which existed within Glasgow’s Asian promotional events. Following years of general enmity found during nightclub ventures, the only clear notion attached to the concept of ‘Bhangra’ event was simply ‘violence’.

With each individual holding many ideas representative of similar quality and appeal, the concept remained proficiently ready in tackling the predicament.

The focus and attention lay on elemental virtues designed to attract an individual in search of such a rewarding experience. Quality, safety, environment and entertainment remained necessary features if a course undertaking all was to be conducted.

In demonstrating their innate ability to promote the crucial attributes, guest lists are generated targeting like minded individuals avoiding possible mishaps in allowing individuals intent on promoting disorder. Each male intending on arrival is reminded about gender ratio importance in stating the obligatory rule of attendance required with a necessary of 1 female.

With all followed in accordance, attendees are rewarded with a versatile sense of musical presentation, sensual venue point as well as the opportunity to communicate amongst like minded persons building a perpetual and affirmative atmosphere.

‘Secrets’, The Valentines Party initiated the fresh concept to Glasgow hosting a red lit party representative of theme aligned with festivities welcoming attendees to an environment contrasting to any other.

London engaged in the element of secrecy in hosting part 2 within central location validating its effectiveness and ability to act in any given opening.

The party returned to Glasgow for two remaining gathering before the commencement of 2008 during the months of September & November.

More notably, November ‘The White Party’, confirmed Gtown and ‘Secrets’ involuntary impact and current position possessed as a result of the themed occurrence. Record numbers were noted as haven been within attendance. Many individuals faced the gloom prospect of non-entry following the unexpected turnout. With much press and coverage directed at the collective, stature and brand grew beyond expectation.

During Valentines 2009, the group celebrated the traditional date as well their first year anniversary. A dinner/dance event accompanied by several interactive features sealed the weekend highlights ideally. Special guest, Des-c, made a guest appearance partaking in the charity raffle which created a substantial sum in the region of £750 with all donations set to be delivered to Yorkhill Children’s foundation.

Several more parties followed with a Masquerade ball taking place with great success hosting another theme.

EVENTS LINKED WTH GTOWN

• Heer Ranjha Acclaimed theatre production conducted during November 2009 embarking on a classic tale of Romeo & Juliet involved the group regarding promotional activity. • Hugo Boss Several in store showcases during the introduction of many featured clothing lines co-aligned Gtown with the brand within Glasgow’s most recognised shopping location, Buchanan Galleries. • Mela The largest multi-cultural UK gathering hosting a variety of artistic based performances opened stage to the collective during the debutant within festive atmosphere. • Nayavars A promotional organisation built on delivering quality like events during festive periods within Glasgow’s most celebrated locations. • Gtown Urban The original clique formalised through the developing urban music environment within central Scotland. Both organisations combined their talents in providing the Mela after party as well as Radio 1’s September weekend party. • Umoja Events An afro-Caribbean events team recognised for many urban events hosting the majority of commercial Glasgow parties. • Universal Promotions Recognised for several years of event involvement hosting Bhangra events billed with industry acts.

ARTIST LIST

With the possession of many years of collective experience amongst Gtown Desi, the team have been readily able to build their network constructively and successfully. Direct involvement with all major Asian promotional ventures in Scotland has secured the team an unforeseen year built on determination, focus and continual effort. This is demonstrative clearly whilst working alongside the UK’s most recognised Bhangra acts.

• Noteworthy artist performances include, Tigerstyle, Bee2 (Soundpipe Entertainment), H Dhami, Panjabi MC, Dr Zeus, Des-c, Aman Hayer as well as BBC Asian / Radio 1 duo, Bobby Friction & Nihal.

RADIO

Radio continues to be a medium full effective in broadcasting not only to Scotland, however to open air globally via the web. ‘The Weekend Warm Up’ every Friday night from 10pm-1am is continually recognised as Scotland’s pivotal Urban Asian radio show (Awaz FM) delivering contemporary productions reigning form both Bhangra & Urban Asian acts.

The team recently undertook a 2nd weekly show on Pulse 98.4 broadcasting every Monday night from 8pm.

ALBUM – 1134(March 2010)

Production from members Bobby B & Jay Jagpal on project ‘1134’ is due for release during March 2010. The product features a range of artist talent based from several corners internationally including local acts creating an ideal balance throughout the record. Singers from both India and Australia (Farita) bless the debut compilation reigning musical influence from contemporary R’n’B and Asian composition. Glasgow acts Jae-P, Gift, Charlene and Nikitta (X-Factor) showcase Scotland’s musical aptitude. Considered as an album unlike anything in existence within Asian territory, Radio DJs await the eventual release with much promise behind such a product likely of influencing industry change with regards to creative and innovative effect.

The 1st single, ‘Peerh’ has already been supported by BBC Radio 1 and BBC Asian Network being playlisted within its first week of airing. The 2nd single,’ Type of Guy’ is the follow up featuring former X-Factor contestant, Nikitta.

The video for ‘Peerh’ was shot entirely within Glasgow and features an entire cast of dancers, artists and extras from the city all making up the production choreographed by former Destiny’s Child indivudal Ron Bedeau and directed by Blaise (Crea8 media).

MIXTAPE SERIES'''

Mixtape creation has been largely responsible for musical reputation out with performance as the musical diversity of each CD from volume 1 – 28 represents a true understanding of current contemporary genres in existence both within in Urban and Asian youth markets. Present styles mixed include Bhangra, R’n’B, Hip Hop, Bollywood, Bassline (4x4) and electro house.

FUTURE

The future remains positive following the undeniable success of each venture conducted throughout 08 & 09. ‘Secrets’ re-generated a fading environment in breathing new life into Scottish Asian nightlife culture. This has suggested the concept may be fully utilised globally once fully accepted within the UK.

Overseas performance remains ever so possible as promotional organisations continue aware of popular / recognised brands.

‘1134’ set for release in March 2010 is the debut album from the collective.

WEBSITE ADDRESS

[www.gtowndesi.com]