Darlington-based DJ, musician and songwriter Kurt Kurator unleashes his new collection of songs, Unlucky For Sun. Taking a distinct hip-hop approach, fused with trip-hop and R&B, the album introduces the artist’s considerable skills, and paves the way for an exciting run of releases in the future. Here, we find out all we can about the artist.
Who are you and where are you from?
I’m Kurt Kurator, from Darlington.
What is it you do?
I’m a long time DJ and record collector, musician and song writer. I produce music for other artists and assist with song writing but right now I’m putting my own art first and writing and producing a string of my own projects
How long have you been doing it?
I’ve DJ’d hip-hop music for over 20 years and played guitar and keys closer to 30. I got into writing in my 20’s when my guitar work took off and producing hip-hop beats in my late 20s but haven’t put out any of my own music until now!
What inspires you?
Seeing others do it and hearing great music, I can’t just watch or listen, I have to be involved. I think that’s what got me hooked on the DJing because you’re immersed in the music, seeing artists like Cookin’ Soul come out of nowhere via YouTube or UK artists like Sonny Jim make such an impact on the hip-hop scene both here and in the States. I dig that. I also must pay respect to my partner Em for encouraging me to go do it and our two girls for partaking in the nonsense
Tell us about your music
Kurt has a few styles, I can make beats all day long like any beat maker from a sample source, but with my latest work I’m relying on my guitar and keyboard talents to craft my own sound and songwriting abilities to sculpt a song with original melodies and hooks. My debut album is just that, 13 original tracks that are ‘out and out’ hip-hop fused with trip-hop and R&B, all written, performed, recorded and produced by myself.
What have you got coming up?
My debut album Unlucky For Sun lands on all streaming platforms 15th July and also on CD via Bandcamp. Off the back off this album I have a string of opportunities to write and produce for other local artists. Later this year I have a rap tape and a DJ mix tape coming out.
Where can people find out about you?
Kurt has a growing fan base on Instagram @kuratorkurt, YouTube @kurtkurator5134 or at Bandcamp where you can buy my latest music and physical merch. Music is available on all streaming platforms.
