BIMM Birmingham’s SIPHO. signs with Dirty Hit

11 May, 2021

We love seeing our students get signed to labels. One of our BIMM Birmingham students SIPHO. has recently inked a deal with Dirty Hit, an independent record label based in West London.

The 1975 were the label’s first signing, reaching mainstream success and carving a path for many artists to follow. Other artists to grace the label are BIMM alumni Pale Waves, Wolf Alice, beabadoobee, Rina Sawayama, Leo Banji, AMA, Mac Wetha, and now, SIPHO.

The multi-instrumentalist and multi-faceted musician is only 21 but has been making music since he was a child. Growing up in Birmingham, SIPHO.’s music is not just ‘good’ RnB, ‘good’ Gospel or ‘good’ electronic – it’s just categorically good and is able to reach people from all walks of life.

His latest release ‘MOONLIGHT’ is a dynamic two-sided single that speaks to his conflicting sides; the pair of songs make up both faces of the SIPHO. coin. It’s a solid introduction to the man himself. Check it out below:


Interview – SIPHO.

We caught up with the man in question:

Hi SIPHO. Can you introduce yourself to those who may not know you?

I am SIPHO. – a singer-songwriter, artist and overall nuisance. It’s very nice to meet you!

Nice to meet you too! When did you find out that Dirty Hit was signing you?

I saw they were interested early last year. I kind of thought I was just making friends meeting people, but they seemed ready to get involved, and I’m grateful for that.

What artists have you been listening to recently?

The question is, what have I not been listening to? Whenever I listen to anything, it’s either for my own leisure or just an ongoing study of options for what I can make. Information is key.

How would you describe your music?

There’s a bit of SIPHO. in every verse and chorus, or whatever. But of course, that can vary wildly alongside my human experience.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

I must admit I was very much a child of Odd Future and Frank Ocean and all of them lot. But the influence on what I’m making can change. A lot of my new stuff is a mix of Earl Sweatshirt, Solange, Marvin Gaye, and whatever crosses my path.

How has BIMM helped you get to where you are today?

Kris Tomkinson from BIMM initially introduced me to the guys at Dirty Hit and just helped me and my team keep the flame going. The study aspect just let me see the boundless options that come with the creative process as well as business-wise. It just helped me consider all the commerce of what I’m making. As much as you’re an artist, you’re also a brand and business.

What have you got coming up?!

Music, music, music, and more of my pretty face. I appreciate everyone’s love and support for real!

BIMM Birmingham’s Kris Tomkinson, Head of Careers & Industry, had this to add:

“We couldn’t be happier for SIPHO. and his signing with Dirty Hit Records – he is such a talented and brilliant character.

“SIPHO. first played his EP to me around a year ago (it’s been on repeat ever since) and I knew instantly that it would only be a matter of time before he secures a record deal. We’re honoured to have been able to play our part in that.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure supporting him and his management on their journey. I have every confidence this is just the start of what will be a glowing career in music, and I look forward to buying every single record he puts out in the years to come.

I’d like to thank Chris Fraser at Dirty Hit and the wider label team for being so receptive and supportive of what we do here at BIMM.”

Huge congratulations to SIPHO. on this amazing success. We wish you all the best in the future! Check out more of our alumni success stories, here.

© 2024 BIMM Music Institute
All Rights Reserved