Artist
Friday 14 Nov
Blue Lab Beats
Blue Lab Beats
The genre bending duo Blue Lab Beats, consisting of NK-OK and MR DM, are making waves in UK music. GRAMMY winners for their work with Angelique Kidjo, they’ve earned over 84 million streams, Jazz FM’s Innovation Award, and MOBO nominations. Their immersive live shows feature drums, horns, guest vocalists, and the duo on drum machine, keys, and guitar. In 2024, they released Blue Eclipse on Blue Note Records, featuring Kojey Radical, Daley, and Amber Navran. Now independent, they run their label Blue Adventure Records.
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How would you introduce yourselves?
I’m NK-OK of Blue Lab Beats.
What is a physical space that’s had a big influence on your musical journey?
Tomorrow’s Warriors was absolutely needed for my understanding of jazz.
Which song of yours do you think best captures your sound - the one you hope people don’t miss?
Labels’ — honestly, I’m so happy with the string arrangement, the vocal performances, and definitely one of my best drum beats for sure.
What are ingredients that make up your sound? What’s your secret ingredient/easter eggs people might miss?
The best way to find out my ingredients is buying our albums, just joking I love me a Dilla snare x.
Which artist/album made you want to be an artist?
Stevie Wonder - Songs in the Key of life.
Who’s in your dream 5 piece supergroup?
J Dilla Patrice Rushen Kendrick Lamar David Mrakpor Terrace Martin
Most underrated artist in your opinion?
Kan Kick
5 favourite songs all time or right now?
Nas - The World Is Yours Clipse - So Be It Stevie Wonder - Contusion J Dilla - Two Can Win Patrice Rushen - Settle For My Love
Who are you most looking forward to catching at Super-Sonic Jazz Festival?
Honestly, it’s gonna be such a vibe and I cannot wait to see all the amazing talent. So many of our friends are playing, and me and Mr DM will be having the best time!