Rui Da Silva

Rui Da Silva achieved international chart success with his 2000 single ‘Touch Me,’ featuring Cassandra Fox, which became the first progressive house song to reach number one on the UK Singles Chart. It also marked the first time a Portuguese artist topped the UK chart and the first new UK chart-topper of the 21st century. Prior to this breakthrough, Da Silva pioneered Lisbon’s house music scene, co-founding Kaos Records in 1992 with DJ Vibe. This label was the first in Portugal to specialize in house and electronic music.

His early productions included the track ‘Não’ (1993) under the alias Doctor J, and in 1993, he co-formed the Underground Sound of Lisbon project with DJ Vibe. Their track ‘So Get Up’ (1994), featuring Ithaka Darin Pappas, gained international attention after being picked up by Tribal America and remixed by Danny Tenaglia. In 1999, Da Silva relocated to London, shifting his primary focus to DJing and developing his solo career. He established Kismet Records in 2000, cultivating a more progressive sound that led to the seminal release of ‘Touch Me.’ Beyond its UK chart dominance, ‘Touch Me’ also topped the Portuguese Singles Chart, solidifying his widespread appeal.

Notable remix credits include Jennifer Lopez’s ‘Play,’ Lighthouse Family’s ‘Happy,’ and Yoko Ono’s ‘Walking on Thin Ice.’ Da Silva’s consistent artistic evolution and ability to connect with global audiences have solidified his enduring position in the electronic music landscape. His pioneering efforts in developing the Portuguese house scene, coupled with his international chart-topping success and continued prolific output across production and remixing, underscore his influence as a globally recognized artist. His distinctive sound and groundbreaking achievements continue to resonate profoundly within the electronic music community.