Highly respected member of the UK's House scene Rap Saunders’s polyrhythmic sound is deeply rooted in deep soul house enriched by his exposure to and experience of hip hop, hard house and techno.
From his own Soulmates parties to headlining events for Househead LDN, Defected Records, Need 2 Soul and Azuli Records, Rap’s high-profile residencies and gigs see him take a crowd on a journey by playing the very best house music in his own unique style.
Tastemaker and champion of new talent, Rap’s lead has highlighted international talents such as Ron Trent, Glenn Underground, Alton Miller and Karizma. We catch up with him to chat all things London ahead of this Saturday August 24th’s Househead LDN Daytime Party featuring an Exclusive set from NDATL Muzik’s Kai Alcé.
What’s the best thing about London?
It’s diversity in everything from the people to the music, the food, the buildings, the parks...it’s a great but expensive city.
What’s the worst thing about London?
The Underground! needs an update! There isn’t any ventilation, loads of screechy trains, could do with a good spring clean - you get the idea.
Where do you go to have fun?
Depends what’s on really as I like all kinds of things from concerts, movies, parties, and even going away!
Where is the most relaxing place in town?
At home chilling with my family as I DJ most weekends.
Where is your favourite place for eats and drinks in London?
The best thing in London is there’s so many places to choose from which makes it very hard but one that’s right up there is Singburi in Leytonstone, which has the best homemade Thai food.
If I could change one thing about London…
The weather mainly and how expensive it is. From housing to going out, it’s crazy mad with things going up all the time.
What’s your favourite venue to play at and what makes it so special?
I like most venues, but I guess the BBE Store is a current favourite as they have loads of amazing overseas guests like Musclecars, Osunlade, Louie Vega, DJ Spinna as well as some incredible homegrown events and DJs like Johnny Reckless, Househead LDN, Patrick Forge and tons more.
My former favourite was The End / AKA which unfortunately has been closed for years now. Open 7 days a week you could find and hear all different types of dance music from techno to Drum n’ Bass. It had one of the best sound systems in London and all the staff were really friendly which contributed to all the great nights. Some legendary DJs played there including Frankie Knuckles (RIP), Kerri Chandler, Tony Humphries, DJ Sneak, Derrick Carter and many more.
The song that reminds me most of London is…
Not really sure I have one but I guess the obvious one would be ‘It’s A London Thing’ by Scott Garcia. When it came out you couldn’t drive round town without hearing that blaring out pirate radio stations and car speakers.
Tell us a London gem that everyone should know about
PANORAMA. It’s the battle of the Steel Bands in the run-up to to the Notting Hill Carnival, I’m pretty sure this is not a secret but if you’ve never been you should as it brings the real spirit and flavour of Caribbean carnival to life.
One thing everyone should do in London is…
If you’re in London at the time, the Notting Hill Carnival should be on everyone’s list! It’s got everything…steel bands, dancers, amazing food, sound systems and everyone smiling, especially if the sun is shining.
Rap Saunders joins Kai Alcé for Househead LDN’S Daytime party alongside Craig Smith, Deli G, Nick Standen and more on Saturday August 24th at Aures, 18 Leake Street, Waterloo, SE1 7NN. Running from 3pm-1am, tickets from RA
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