Yussef Dayes

Yussef Dayes is a prominent British jazz drummer, composer, and record producer, celebrated for his innovative contributions to the UK jazz scene. His professional journey began with the formation of United Vibrations in 2009, a band that blended Afro-beat with contemporary jazz. Their debut album, *Galaxies Not Ghettos*, released in 2011, showcased their unique sound and garnered critical acclaim, establishing Dayes as a formidable talent in the music industry.

In 2016, Dayes partnered with keyboardist Kamaal Williams to form the duo Yussef Kamaal. Their album *Black Focus* was a groundbreaking release that fused jazz with elements of funk and electronic music, earning them the title of Best Breakthrough Act at the 2017 Jazz FM Awards. This collaboration not only solidified Dayes’ reputation but also played a pivotal role in the resurgence of interest in UK jazz.

Following the duo’s split, Dayes continued to evolve as an artist, releasing his first solo single, “Love Is the Message,” in 2018. He further expanded his discography with the collaborative album *What Kinda Music* alongside Tom Misch in 2020, which reached number four on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing his versatility and appeal across genres.

In September 2023, Dayes released his highly anticipated debut solo album, *Black Classical Music*, which has been praised for its rich blend of jazz, funk, and soul influences. This album not only highlights his exceptional drumming skills but also reflects his artistic growth and commitment to pushing musical boundaries, marking him as a leading figure in contemporary jazz.