MIF23: Desi Factory at Factory International
Johnny James, Managing Editor
Marking the closing weekend of Manchester International Festival 2023, Manchester’s own Sam Malik curates a night of British South Asian talent at Factory International.
Headlining is singer and producer Zack Knight. Born in Grimsby, to a Punjabi Mother and Afro-Asian Father, Knight entwines his heritage and upbringing in his R&B-infused sound. He’s written songs for the likes of Tinie Tempah, opened shows for Taio Cruz and Jessie J, and is a star in his own right, selling out a UK headline tour and writing and producing the huge international hit ‘Bom Diggy Diggy’, which has clocked close to a billion views on YouTube so far.
Appearing just before Zack Knight will be singer-songwriter Ezu, whose songs chain English and Punjabi lyrics in a seamless flow. We’re also looking forward to catching BBC Asian Network’s legendary DJ Bobby Friction, who is a documenter and historian of Asian music culture, and a specialist in desi beats. Finally, an emerging singer who’s recently signed a publishing deal with Sony, Bambi Bains is a trailblazer in the UK’s Desi R&B and Bhangra scene, and is well worth heading down early for.
Bringing all of this together is Sam Malik, a pioneer of the city’s creative scene determined to shine a light on next gen talent, as well as the best of British South Asian music. A member of the Factory Sounds 2022 cohort – MIF’s artist development programme for Manchester’s music visionaries – Sam is making waves across the city with his new artist management company, SM Music, with which he’s determined to help support the creative future of standout British South Asian artists.
