Silinder Pardesi began singing from a young age in Sikh temples. Originally from Kenya, after arriving in England he was taught singing and classical techniques.

In 1982 he formed the band "Pardesi" or "The New Pardesi Music Machine". Their first major turning point was winning the 'Asian Song Contest' in 1986, after which they released their first album, a collection of Sikh religious songs and hymns. All proceeds from this album were donated to charity.

In early 1987 they decided to record their first bhangra album titled "Nashay Diye Band Botlay". Although this album was not a massive commercial success, the combination of new and traditional ideas pointed the way forward.

Their next, more successful bhangra album. "Pump up the Bhangra", combined insistent westernised beats and traditional eastern melodies.

Their fourth album "Shake Yer Pants" was released in 1990, containing covers of popular bhangra tracks and original material.

Having experienced some solo success with a Hindi cover album, "Bollywood Seduction", in 1996, Silinder Pardesi released a solo bhangra album "Pump 'n' Up Again", and in 1998 the bhangra album "Exposure".

More recent albums as part of Pardesi include "Destiny" in 2001 and "Firing on all Silinders" in 2003.

www.pardesi.co.uk/

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