About
Stéphane San Juan, a versatile musician, began his musical journey in Montpellier, France, refining his drumming and percussion skills with local ensembles. In 1995, he moved to London, collaborating with artists like Andy Sheppard and Sibongile Khumalo. His stint with the Malian duo Amadou & Mariam in Paris led to living in Mali, touring globally, and contributing to Grammy-nominated albums.
In 2000, Stéphane joined the +2’s in Rio de Janeiro, delving into Brazilian music. He co-founded bands like Os Ritmistas and Cometa and gained acclaim with Orquestra Imperial. His Brazilian chapter involved collaborations with renowned artists, earning accolades, including Latin Grammy Awards.
Venturing into artistic direction in 2009, Stéphane created the Gainsbourg Imperial Project in São Paulo, receiving acclaim and awards. Transitioning to solo endeavors, he released “Système de Son” in 2014, followed by “Saved by the Drums” in 2018, paying homage to his mentor.
Upon moving to the U.S., Stéphane engaged in diverse collaborations, produced albums, and curated Multiplicidade at The National Sawdust. Joining David Byrne’s “American Utopia” world tour in 2018 led to a Broadway production and a Spike Lee-directed movie, earning two Emmy Awards.
In 2020 and 2022, Stéphane released “Stéphane San Juan & Sambacool Vol I and Vol.II” with global acclaim. In 2022, he produced a remix for Tulipa Ruiz and contributed to Flora Purim’s Grammy-nominated album. Reconnecting with Rogê, they toured as a duo.
In 2023, amidst various projects, Stéphane revisited his repertoire, performing in New York and gearing up for his upcoming album. His musical odyssey, marked by collaborations and solo ventures, continues to resonate globally, celebrating the universal language of music.
Discography
Stéphane San Juan’s discography unfolds as a captivating narrative, beginning with his formative years in Montpellier, France, and expanding globally through collaborations with artists like Amadou & Mariam in Mali and influential figures in the Brazilian music scene. From acclaimed solo releases such as “Système de Son” and “Saved by the Drums” to his role in transformative projects like Orquestra Imperial and David Byrne’s “American Utopia,” Stéphane’s musical journey is marked by diverse influences and a rhythmic prowess that resonates across continents. Recent works, including “Stéphane San Juan & Sambacool Vol I and Vol.II,” showcase his continued innovation, solidifying his position as a dynamic force in the international music landscape.
Press Media
With a musical journey spanning since 1989, my path as a professional musician has been marked by profound experiences and a flourishing artistic career across the globe. My approach to music is deeply rooted in principles that resonate sincerely with me as an artist: authentic expression, artistic freedom, proficiency, and collaborative sharing