User:Simon Duggal

Simon Duggal is an award-winning producer/composer who has been producing, writing, recording, editing and mixing music for more than 30 years. He has made records for many top international artists including: Shania Twain, Maxi Priest, Erasure, Apache Indian, Janet Kaye, Errol Reid (China Black), Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, The Beat, Luciano, Desmond Dekker, Dillinger and many more. Duggal has composed music for adverts for companies including: Pepsi, Intel, Toshiba, Etisalat, Etihad and composed title and incidental music for a BAFTA winning UK TV drama. He is also an MA specialist mentor at Birmingham Music Institute, BIMM University in Birmingham, UK.

With an impressive three-decade tenure in the music industry, Simon has cultivated a diverse and extensive portfolio that showcases his prowess in producing, writing, and mixing music. His impact is evident in the success of various esteemed international artists, including Shania Twain, Maxi Priest, Erasure, Apache Indian, Janet Kaye, and many more.

Simon is particularly recognized for crafting the distinctive sound of Apache Indian and leading the creation and production of his records. His journey began with the inception of Apache Indian's earliest singles, such as "Movie Over India," "Don Raja," and "Chok There," culminating in the monumental success of the triple-platinum Island Records album "No Reservations." Simon also composed, authored, and produced the number one R&B hit "No More (Making Love)," performed by Aretha Daye.

As a founding member of the popular band Swami, Simon played a pivotal role in the group's success, contributing to the groundbreaking album "Desi Nu Skool Beatz." His compositions, including the lead track "Mehbooba," were featured in the Hollywood movie "New York Minute," catapulting Swami to international recognition within the South Asian diaspora.

Simon's production contribution to Shania Twain's "Up" album significantly contributed to its remarkable success, achieving over 25 million copies sold worldwide and 11 times platinum status. This collaboration garnered acclaim with two Grammy Award nominations, highlighting Simon's influential role in crafting the celebrated album.

Beyond artist collaborations, Simon's expertise extends to composing music for prominent brands such as Pepsi, Intel, Toshiba, Etisalat, and Etihad. His compositions have also graced the screens of international films, including "New York Minute" and Gurinder Chadha’s ‘It’s a Wonderful Afterlife.’

Simon's artistic versatility shines in his work for theatre productions, with sold-out shows at prestigious venues like Birmingham Symphony Hall, The REP Theatre, and The Drum.

His impact has been acknowledged with accolades, with records he produced receiving nominations for 2 Grammy Awards, 3 Brit Awards, and a Mercury Music Prize. Simon himself received a coveted Ivor Novello Award nomination in the category of Best Contemporary Song, alongside Take That and M People.

Simon holds the distinction of being the first-ever songwriter signed to Sony Music UK to earn a prestigious Ivor Novello Award nomination. His extensive body of work and collaborations with renowned artists have solidified his position as a trailblazer in the music industry.

In addition to his ongoing music composition and production endeavors, Simon contributes to the academic sphere as a distinguished university guest speaker and a specialized mentor for MA students. His commitment to education is further demonstrated through his authored book, "Record, Mix and Master – A Beginner’s Guide to Audio Production," published by Palgrave Macmillan, serving as a valuable resource for beginners entering the realms of recording, mixing, and mastering music. Simon's multi-faceted involvement underscores his dedication not only to artistic creation but also to the education and mentorship of aspiring talents in the industry.