SimpLy ToMas, Unique and DisTInct

If you are an avid Kenyan rock fan then you have no doubt heard the song ‘Tafadhali’ by M2o (Music 2 overdrive). There has been some confusion about M2O and Simply Tomas. However, the later has come out strongly to distinguish himself from his other band and create his own brand. His recent single, ‘Mpenzi’ is simply one step toward this goal. The writer of the hit ‘Tafadhali’ tells us more about who he is and his music.

How did it all begin for you as Simply Tomas? When did you start out?

Simply Tomas is a brand that just represents one individual. After my first band, M2O, took a break towards the end of 2010 I had to come up with something to continue with the work we had started. I toyed with the idea of putting together a new team but figured we may end up in the same situation. (Guys getting caught up in other stuff. Work, School etc.) therefore I decided to go it alone because I knew I would be in music for the long haul.

Simply Tomas, how did you pick this as a name?

Good question. I didn’t pick it. It picked me. After deciding to go it alone, I started playing with names trying to rebrand… I wasn’t comfortable at the time using my own personal name because I had always wanted to be behind scenes. I couldn’t find a name that fit so I remember thinking, “Why can’t I Simply brand myself Tomas” That statement led me to the name.

What inspires your music?

My music is inspired by tunes in my subconscious and around me. I almost always have a beat or bass line in my head. The tunes by their nature then inspire the subject matter of the lyrics.

What’s been the best part of working together with a band?

Well, as much as Simply Tomas is a solo artiste I always have a band when playing live. The current setup is that I have a dedicated drummer, bassist and keyboardist and they are all very talented. Working with a band is amazing because you share ideas, learn from each other and basically connect in ways that other people cant. We speak via our instruments and make music. To me, the random, inspiring, music creation process is the best part.

What challenges has Simply Tomas faced over the years?

Where do I start?! The challenges I have faced are numerous.

1. When we started out we had inexperienced producers because most were used to hip-hop/genge, so any song you’d try to produce was doomed to fail even before you started.
2. Starting out also we suffered from a lack of funds to buy good gear; so musical development was hindered and our live sound was wanting.
3. Untrustworthy and/or disorganized events’ organizers
4. Other commitments (work, school) makes bands stagnate because there’s no time to practice and play gigs.
5. No station would play our music till Xfm came to the scene.
6. Sponsors won’t be caught dead supporting a rock gig (so far). But it can change if we get our act right.
7. A zillion fans! – Always behind their computers – never at a gig
8. Of course, poor promotion of events contributes to point # 7 J

The list is endless...

Summarize the Kenyan rock Industry in 3 words.

Kenyan Rock Industry?

If you could, what is the one thing you would change about the Kenyan Rock Industry?

Industry involves the organized production, distribution, and sale of music in a variety of forms. This is not a definition that can be used accurately with local Rock. That said, if I were to help develop it, it would involve facilitating production, distribution and sale of music on a large organized scale.

Mpenzi was well received, getting air play from local radio. Is there more where that came from? Is there an album in the offing, perhaps a new single? What can Kenyan rock fans expect?

Thank you. Indeed there’s more but I am taking calculated steps to release songs, while at the same time learning from feedback I get from fans and critics alike. This learning process is what delays songs sometimes but I’ll soon get it right and release tracks more frequently.

Where can Kenyan rock fans get your music, or go to here you play live?

They can get downloads via www.simplytomas.com and view videos on my youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/user/SimplyTomasKE
I keep guys posted when I have shows through my social media pages: www.facebook.com/simplytomaske and www.twitter.com/simplytomaske