Studio Funk

A man who probably needs no introduction as he’s been consistently delivering great music for the past 10 years plus. Musician, producer, songwriter are a few labels attached to his calibre and status. He is also one of the leading voices and sounds within the Modern Funk scene whilst also at the helm of the beloved Mofunk records, Pasadena’s finest — XL Middleton  Together we discuss the early days of his G-Funk era through to modern day of his highly anticipated sequel album, Tap Water II. We also get into the detail about his collaborations with Zackey Force Funk and their most recent album, Blue Blade Piranha. Plus we go behind the scenes on some of the great remixes he’s done over the years, including the latest with Japanese City Pop artist, Hannah Warm …plus a whole lot more!

Another piece of footage released from the vault! Some more insight into the wonderful career of Isy Martin. The Budweiser Showdown competition, additional songs he wrote, reflecting on life and sharing wisdom - all to share!

Released from the vault! Mr Big Happy shares the time he connected and linked up with some of the members of 'Sparkle City Band' to work on a collaborative project to reissue their ultra rare 45 'Day By Day'. Alongside that we discuss the origins of his DJ crew - 'Parish Council' and how they form together like Voltron!

To celebrate the recent release of their self-titled debut album - 'Milk Talk', we have some unreleased footage unlocked from the Studio Funk vault. In this episode, Milk Talk share some insight of the makings of the 'Ah Be Rue' music video, discuss the process of mixing Japanese and English lyrics...plus more!

Welcoming back to the podcast, we have Sam Don to share and discuss his latest release, Just A Touch (Athens of the North, 2023) — the new compilation focusing on underground U.K Soul. Together, Aswad and Sam discuss the term ‘Street Soul’ and what it means to them, the culture, the impact it created in a short space of time. Sam shares the inspiration behind the project, working closely with artists to resurface these rare, and sometimes lost and forgotten music.

Join us on this exciting episode featuring Cool Raul, a DJ and record collector hailing from Oakland, Bay Area. Known for his keen eye for unique and rare records, Raul takes us on a thrilling journey as he unveils some hidden Gospel 45s from his prized collection. As a part of Studio Funk, we are thrilled to have him on the show, where he sits down with Aswad for an exclusive showcase of his rare finds. These gems are not to be missed, and it's a special treat as this episode was previously available only to our loyal Studio Funk Patreon supporters. Consider it a complementary bonus episode to the Tone B. Nimble show.

A special show which was sitting in the unreleased folder until now. Towards the end of last year, Aswad caught up and sat down to talk with Pittsburgh’s finest producer — Buscrates. On the show they go to great lengths to talk about his forever growing career. Starting with the earlier days through to what’s next on the horizon. Together they take deep dives to discuss hardware and software and how Buscrates approaches his workflow when working in the lab. Alongside that they talk about other activities which keeps him busy — Twitch and Serato Kitchen.

Last show of the year and it’s a special one. Aswad sits down and catches up with Earl McKenzie and Clive Gardiner about their latest release on CQQL Records — Timestamp. The definitive edition and collection of their cherished and beloved music recorded from the early 80s. Remastered and reissued with love is how we describe it. As tradition dictates, the last show is a recap highlighting music of the year. Expect a good dose of new releases alongside favourites from the year.

Breaking the record for having the longest running time of recording an interview — 3.5 hours! Two of Aswad's favourite people, Hair Kid and Q.I who are behind the amazing modern funk duo from Japan — Milk Talk. Their first ever interview which goes over and beyond! Over the last few years, Milk Talk have been consistently releasing incredible modern funk, synth / city pop music. On the show they go to great lengths to discuss about their chemistry and collaboration. We go behind the scenes to discuss how their records are put together, and talk about their recent tour in Tokyo. That’s just the tip of the iceberg, as there is plenty more uncovered. And knowing how much we recorded, let’s just say this is part 1 of their feature 😊

This month on Studio Funk we welcome curator, DJ, the man of leisure — Miche. Over the past years Miche has been contributing heavily to the funk and soul scene in the U.K. From being a leading music programmer of London’s number 1 listening bar Spiritland, through to working and collaborating with various artists, musicians and DJs he is now entering his next chapter — releasing his new compilation on world renown record label, Mr Bongo; With Love Vol.1. Here on Studio Funk we get an exclusive preview and insight behind the highly anticipated project.