Bobby, being one of the most talented and respected artist, has proven to be the most outstanding in the world of music, as a percussionist in South East Asia.
Bob is one of Southeast Asia’s most accomplished and respected percussionists, known for his dynamic versatility and deep musical sensitivity. Born in Singapore into a musically gifted family, Bobby began performing at just five years old as part of his family’s band. His formal training took him to New Delhi, where he graduated from the renowned Pracheen Kala Kendra Music School with a specialisation in Indian classical music, focusing on the tabla.
With over three decades of performance experience, Bobby has mastered a wide range of global rhythms—seamlessly blending Indian classical with Jazz, Latin, Pop, Brazilian, and World Music. His instrumental command spans from traditional Indian drums to congas, bongos, cajon, timbales, djembe, udu, darbouka, and more.
Bobby has shared the stage with international icons such as James Ingram, Asha Bhosle, David Bowie (Let’s Dance Remix), Jeremy Monteiro, and many more. He’s performed across the globe in countries including China, Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Dubai, Brunei, and throughout Europe.
As a seasoned session musician and live performer, Bobby’s ability to adapt and improvise across genres sets him apart. He is also a dedicated music educator, appointed by the Ministry of Education and the National Arts Council in Singapore to teach and inspire the next generation of musicians.
Bob continues to bring the heartbeat of world music to life—through every beat, every rhythm, and every stage he graces.
1977 – First stage performance with Roshni Jeevan at the Indian Cultural Show, National Theatre, Singapore (Organized by Indian Cultural Association).
Performed regularly for Singapore Broadcasting Corporation, now known as Television Corporation of Singapore (TCS).
Took formal music lessons while performing at TV shows and concerts with his family band.
1984 – Featured at the Youth Festival (National Day Celebration) organized by Indian Cultural Society, NUS.
1985 – Played with D.J. Dave (EMI artist) at World Trade Centre Auditorium – a spectacular live show with Bollywood stars.
1987 – Toured Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore) as part of “Anita’s Nite” with sister Anita Kaur and co-artist Johnie Calsy (Dhol Foundation).
1993 – International break with Wendy Koh and 66 Jam band; toured Hard Rock Cafés across Asia (China, Indonesia, Malaysia).
1996–1998 – Played with Mintu (Australian artist) at Club Bollywood.
1998–2003 – Performed with Wendy Koh / Sonic Boom Band across Asia, including Club Europa.
2004–2005
Mosaic Music Festival, Jazz Art Festival, and Singapore Arts Festival at Esplanade & National venues
Performed at President Nathan’s Gala Dinner (Parliament House)
Royal Wedding of Brunei Princess, Habana Nights, and 1st Asian Film Art Festival
2006 – Featured in IMF World Summit, Nanning Folk Festival (China), and Heineken Jazz Festival
2007 – Dubai World Cup Opening with Sydney Tan & 16 international drummers
Toured Shanghai, Kota Kinabalu, and endorsed by Mapex Drums
2008 – Performed at Beijing Olympics, Singapore Flyer Opening, and Singapore Formula 1 (with Alemay, Richard Jackson)
2009 – Featured at Suzhou Jazz Festival (China) and Singapore F1
2010–2011 – Played for Shangri-La Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa, and TV recordings
2012 – TV performances on Suria (50s–80s Show) & TAA Sinaran Hati
Played at Parmigiani Gala Dinner, Asia TV Awards (Shangri-La)
2013 – Performance at Prince Jeffrey’s Palace (Brunei)
Shows at Marina Bay Sands, Fruit Festival, and Esplanade Mosaic with Zubir Abdullah
2014
Mosaic Festival (Multiple dates with Tribal Tide, SBT Trio, DJ Dave)
Featured in Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Musical) and Pause for the Arts
2015 – Elvis Presley Tribute at National Library Hall & Esplanade Waterfront Concert
2016 – Performed at Clarke Quay Festival, Singapore Gardens Festival, and JB Arts Festival
Part of River Nights Series (4-day event)
Jan – All Things New – Karmahead
Mar – One More Time concert
Mar–Apr – Singapore Jazz Festival
May – Ultimate 70s Jukebox – Songs We Grew Up With
Bob has performed with international artists across four decades and continues to inspire as a multi-genre percussionist. From television performances in the 70s to global jazz stages, Bobby’s rhythm has transcended cultures and time.
