Santogold

By Melissa Toldy

Santogold

With the eclectic influences of dub, punk and new wave, Santi White, a.k.a. Santogold, is stirring up some of the most modern pop music to date. Santogold's self-titled debut album was already getting positive attention by the media prior to its official release in April 2008. The record exhibits a clear affinity for 80's sensibility and audiences were eager to welcome something recognizable yet somehow different. Catchy in its electronic fortitude, the single "Creator" was an immediate favorite and has already been tapped by the likes of Bud Light for its palatable commercial value. Another ear-grabbing track, "L.E.S. Artistes," features White's melodic hooks and vocal urgency and the catchiest chorus Santogold contains.

Originally from Philadelphia, White began her career in the music business in New York as an A&R representative for Epic Records but soon switched to more creative endeavors. Since writing and producing a debut album for Res ( How I Do), Santi has written for and collaborated with an array of artists, including Ashlee Simpson and Mark Ronson. Santogold is often compared to friend M.I.A. as the two artists are similarly admired for their innovative approach when sourcing various musical genres. Their similarity might also be due to the fact that they have worked with the same producers, Switch and Diplo. Unafraid to deviate, to mix and match established forms, Santogold has managed to create a familiar yet fresh style that has already showcased some of its future promise.