RDB Rhythm Dhol Bass | |
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Background information | |
Origin | Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK |
Genres |
Bhangra Hip hop Bollywood |
Years active | 1997- 2013 |
Labels | Three |
Website | www |
Members | Surjeet Singh (SurjRDB) |
Past members | Kuldeep Ral Manjeet Ral |
RDB (an acronym for Rhythm, Dhol, Bass) is a band initially formed by three British Sikh brothers in 1997, whose style blends western genres with traditional Punjabi beats and vocals. The group is now led by its sole remaining founder SurjRDB (Surjeet Singh) along with a team of singers, performers and composers.
RDB's musical journey began with singing at the gurdwara: "We used to assist our father in performing in front of the community at our local gurdwara, playing the harmonium and the tabla. This gave us a great understanding of our musical creativity and we mixed this with our passion for technology and started experimenting with sounds." In 2003, they won "Best Club DJ Bhangra" at the UK Asian Music Awards. The group is on the Brampton Walk of Fame. RDB have collaborated with acts such as Snoop Dogg and T-Pain. In April 2011, Kuldeep was diagnosed with a brain tumour and underwent radiotherapy and chemotherapy. He died on 22 May 2012 in Houston, Texas.
After the demise of Kuly Ral in 2012 and the recent statement from Manj which confirmed his exit from RDB in order to pursue his solo career, there were rumours about the closure of the band. However, Surj, the only existing member of RDB has taken it on himself to carry on the legacy of RDB and lead the team from the front.