Richard Blair went over to Colombia in the early 90s to make a record with Colombian legend Totó La Momposina and has pretty much been there ever since. In collaboration with local musicians, singers and writers, he set up the band Sidestepper which has gradually earned its place as the originator of a new fusion of folkloric and electronic beats. Listen to the the British producer reflect on the revival of traditional sounds in his music – that aim to evoke the great ‘orquestas’ of Colombia, Haiti, Trinidad, Cuba and Africa – and how it can translate to one’s everyday wellbeing. In an increasingly divided world, he offers a solution for happiness and union through the ‘Colombian’ approach to playing.
Richard Blair (Sidestepper) in conversation
