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United Kingdom Ibibio Sound Machine is an English electronic afro-funk band from London, known for its dynamic fusion of West African funk, disco, and contemporary electronic music.
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Request A ShowIbibio Sound Machine collaborated with Hot Chip for the production of their album 'Electricity'. This partnership was a result of mutual admiration between the bands, stemming from their observations of each other's performances at festival stages.
Ibibio Sound Machine worked with Sheffield producer Ross Orton, who has previously collaborated with artists such as M.I.A., Roots Manuva, and Toddla T, on the recording process for one of their albums.
Ibibio Sound Machine joined Merge Records in 2017 for the album Uyai, and continued their partnership for subsequent albums such as Doko Mien and Electricity.
Ibibio Sound Machine collaborated with Village Cuts on the track 'Anyone Like You', fusing electronic sounds and organic elements with a club sensibility.
Ibibio Sound Machine received 'Momentum' funding from PRS Foundation. This initiative supports artists and bands at pivotal career points.
Ibibio Sound Machine was formed in London in 2013. The band’s genesis involved producers Max Grunhard, Leon Brichard, and Benji Bouton, who sought to create music that merged 1980s afrobeat with 1990s drum-and-bass elements. They subsequently invited vocalist Eno Williams to contribute. Williams’ contributions to the band’s sound involve incorporating her native Ibibio language, drawing inspiration from childhood stories and folk tales from Nigeria, where she spent significant parts of her upbringing. This infusion provides a distinctive lyrical foundation for the band’s musical output.
Following successful initial recording sessions, the team expanded to include live musicians, solidifying the band’s line-up. Notable additions included Ghanaian guitarist Alfred Bannerman, known for his work with KonKoma and Osibisa, Brazilian percussionist Anselmo Netto, and multi-instrumentalists Tony Hayden and Scott Baylis. This blend of international talent and diverse musical backgrounds formed the core of Ibibio Sound Machine’s unique sound. The band operates at the intersection of various genres, encompassing afrobeat, disco, and electronic music. Their sound also integrates influences from post-punk and electro genres, creating a distinctive aural experience.
The band released their debut single, “Let’s Dance,” in January 2014 via Soundway Records, followed by their self-titled debut album in March of the same year. This period marked their introduction to the wider music scene. Their career progressed with a signing to Merge Records in 2016 for their subsequent releases. This move enabled a broader reach and continued the development of their discography, which includes multiple studio albums showcasing their evolving sound and collaborative efforts.
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