Global electronica artist Nick DeSimone, better known as Nickodemus, developed his skill as resident DJ for Giant Step-produced events in New York City from 1995 – 1999. Nickodemus provided support DJ sets for live concerts from Gil Scott Heron, Jazzmattazz, The Pharcyde, Mos Def & Kweli, KRS-One, Us 3, Thievery Corporation, Groove Collective, Pucho & the Latin Soul Brothers, Angelique Kidjo and Femi Kuti.
In 1998, Nickodemus became resident DJ and producer for Turntables on the Hudson (TOTH) – one of the first late night outdoor events in New York City. The party was known for its eclectic musical blend of funk, house, hip hop and soul played along with Latin, Afrobeat and Eastern European gypsy sounds.
The Turntables on the Hudson parties took place every Friday at the Water Taxi Beach in Long Island City, Queens overlooking Manhattan and the East River.
Nickodemus’ style is known for adding something a bit more musical and spiritual to the mix, incorporating real culture and social themes.
In 2009 he released Sun People, on Thievery Corporation’s label, ESL Music. Sun People was made with songs made for people who love the sun, sunshine and brighter days to come. Songs were inspired by various people Nickodemus met and places he visited, along with his collective feelings of optimism. “Sun People makes the best of every situation. When that sun peaks out in the sky, it’s another day to feel and do something positive,” says Nickodemus.
Sun People mixes positive sonic vibrations from various parts of the world, with collaborators from various countries, including Guinea, Colombia, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Romania, India, Turkey, United Kingdom and the United States.
Discography
* Endangered Species (ESL, 2006)
* Endangered Species Remixed (ESL, 2007)
* Sun People (ESL, 2009)
* Sun People Remixed (ESL, 2009)
* Moon People (2012)
* Wonderworld (Wonderwheel Recordings WONDERCD-24, 2015)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
