Artists > Kate Simko

Chicago-based Kate Simko is a University-trained classical pianist turned left field house and techno producer. Releasing music on labels such as Traum, Kupei Musika and Spectral Sound, Kate draws from a wide range of influences, combining her sense of melody and structure with her background in Chicago house and Detroit techno. Whether playing live or DJ’ing, Kate’s musical selection maintains a warm, soulful character, full of funky bass lines and loose rhythms.

Kate’s music has received critical acclaim in publications such as The Wire, XLR8R, de:Bug, Mixmag, URB, BPM and Remix and her Detalles project was named one of the 'Next 100' artists by URB magazine. A versatile DJ, Kate was named one of the Top 10 DJ's in Chicago by XLR8R magazine. Gaining attention from labels and DJ's around the world, Kate has performed at festivals such as Mutek (Montreal and Chile), the Detroit Electronic Music Festival and Worldtronics (Berlin), and has played beside a myriad of genre defining artists throughout the United States, Europe and South America.

Growing up studying piano and music theory, Kate discovered underground dance music during her teens and began DJ’ing at college station WNUR in 1998. Shortly after, she became dance music director of the station, where she learned the history of the music and was able to keep pace with current releases. At this time, Kate made a switch from a degree in classical piano to electronic music composition. In 2001, Kate moved to Santiago, Chile, where she continued her studies in music composition and met Andres Bucci. Bucci and Simko combined forces and have since recorded two full-length records together as Detalles (Traum , Kupei Musika).

Back in her hometown of Chicago, Kate is honing her talents, producing and performing full time. Kate is continually evolving as an artist, combining her wide range of influences into her own music, creating a unique personal sound that crosses genre borders, blending rich textures, melodies and intricate programming with funky bass and groove.