Gareth Donkin

Blending the warmth of classic soul with the polish of modern production, Gareth Donkin has built a sound that feels both familiar and new. A self-contained artist, writing, composing, and producing almost everything by himself, the 26-year-old draws on a wide range of influences; from the intricate grooves of Prince and Stevie Wonder to the likes of Steely Dan, Bobby Caldwell, and Earth, Wind & Fire. His 2023 debut album, Welcome Home, earned praise from Billboard (“a soul-savant”) and caught the attention of Syd, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Howard Lawrence (Disclosure), and BBC Radio 6. It also brought him to US stages for the first time, including SXSW 2024. Behind the momentum, however, was a period of personal difficulty that shaped his next project. Suite Escape, his 2024 EP, channels that experience into a soul-rock narrative about finding clarity and space when life becomes overwhelming. Rich, layered arrangements and a stronger rock edge mark an evolution in his sound, revealing an artist as interested in personal truth as in perfecting his craft. You can find Donkin’s long-anticipated second album Extraordinary, released April 2026, on streaming platforms and available to purchase on vinyl or CD; including performances from Kiefer, UHMEER, ESME and more.