In the world of global music fusion, few names resonate as powerfully as Surjeet Singh, affectionately known to fans as SurjRDB. As one of the original forces behind the ground-breaking British-Indian band RDB (Rhythm Dhol Bass), Surjeet’s influence has been nothing short of revolutionary. He has played a central role in shaping a new era of music where East meets West, blending traditional Punjabi sounds with urban, hip-hop, and R&B beats.
RDB wasn’t just a musical act — it was a movement. With a pulse on innovation and a deep respect for heritage, the group has not only entertained millions but has also redefined what it means to be a British-Asian artist on the global stage. Surjeet, with his signature style, passion, and artistry, continues to be the heartbeat of this ongoing legacy.
The Humble Origins of a Pop Legend
Surjeet Singh’s musical story started not on a big stage or in a flashy studio, but in a place of devotion. Growing up in Bradford, England, Surjeet and his two brothers, Kuldeep (Kuly) and Manjeet (Manj), were introduced to music in the Gurdwara by their father. Singing religious hymns and playing traditional instruments like the harmonium and tabla gave the young boys not just a musical education but a spiritual one too.
These formative experiences taught them discipline, harmony, and the emotional depth that would later become the essence of their music. The brothers began experimenting with sound early on, blending the classical elements they learned in the Gurdwara with the contemporary music they loved as British teens.
What emerged from this cultural melting pot was something new — a rhythmic revolution that would later be known worldwide as the RDB sound.
RDB: A Vision That Changed the Game
When the Singh brothers officially formed RDB in 1997, their goal was simple yet ambitious: to create music that honored their roots while speaking the language of a global audience. Their name, Rhythm Dhol Bass, captured their entire philosophy — a thumping beat of modern basslines powered by the soulful rhythm of the dhol and enriched with Punjabi vocal traditions.
Their rise was meteoric. Their music was fresh, vibrant, and filled with energy, and it began making waves in the UK’s underground music scene. RDB soon found themselves collaborating with legendary UK artists like Tim Westwood, So Solid Crew, Mc Romeo, Shola Ama, and The Dream Team.
But it was Bollywood that catapulted them to a whole new level of stardom.
Breaking Into Bollywood and Global Fame
RDB’s entry into Bollywood was a turning point. The trio first teamed up with Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar for the hit track “Rafta Rafta” from the film Namastey London. This marked their arrival in the Indian mainstream music scene.
The real global explosion came with “Singh Is Kinng,” featuring none other than hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg. It was more than just a track; it was a cultural event. For the first time, a British-Asian group had successfully merged Bollywood with American hip-hop, creating a track that dominated charts across continents.
More Bollywood hits followed — “Aloo Chaat,” “Paisa Paisa,” and the unforgettable “Sadi Gali” from Tanu Weds Manu. Each song was not just a commercial success but a testament to RDB’s ability to craft soundscapes that were both innovative and deeply connected to their Punjabi heritage.
A Painful Loss and a Pledge to Continue
Tragedy struck in 2012 when Kuly, the eldest of the Singh brothers and the group’s creative pillar, passed away from cancer. The loss was devastating, both emotionally and professionally. For a while, the future of RDB seemed uncertain.
After Kuly’s passing, Manjeet decided to embark on a solo career, leading to public disputes over the use of the RDB name. Despite the turmoil, Surjeet remained committed to preserving and honoring the band’s original mission and sound. He vowed to carry on RDB’s legacy and continued producing music that paid tribute to the band’s roots while looking ahead to the future.
His resilience during this challenging time spoke volumes about his dedication to fans, music, and family.
Reinvention with Three Records
Surjeet didn’t just keep RDB alive — he reimagined it. Taking the reins as the sole representative of the band, he launched the label Three Records, which now serves as the home of RDB’s continued work and new projects. The label is not only a hub for Surjeet’s music but also a platform for emerging talent that shares his passion for blending cultures and sounds.
Under Three Records, SurjRDB has expanded his collaborations even further, working with artists from across the globe and constantly experimenting with new genres. His ability to stay ahead of musical trends while still maintaining the authenticity of his Punjabi roots is what keeps his sound so relevant.
A New Chapter: What’s Next for SurjRDB?
Today, Surjeet Singh stands as a seasoned artist who has stayed true to his beginnings while continuously pushing creative boundaries. He is preparing to release a much-anticipated new album that promises to take fans on a global musical journey. This upcoming album is expected to feature a mix of pop, urban, and Punjabi influences — all signature elements of the RDB sound — with a fresh and modern twist.
With live performances on the horizon, international collaborations in the works, and a new wave of music brewing, SurjRDB shows no signs of slowing down. He is not just a musician but a cultural ambassador who continues to unite people through the universal language of music.
Celebrating a Living Icon
Surjeet Singh’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. From sacred melodies in a Gurdwara to sharing global stages with world-renowned artists, he has lived a life filled with rhythm, emotion, and innovation. His legacy through RDB isn’t just about hit songs — it’s about breaking barriers, representing identity with pride, and bringing people together through music.
In an ever-evolving industry, SurjRDB remains a constant force — an artist who respects his past, owns his present, and is ready to shape the future. As he continues to inspire fans around the world, one thing is certain: the rhythm of RDB will never fade.
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