Biography

Simon Kingman is a guitarist, composer and educator from Cardiff, Wales, whose career has spanned more than three decades across the worlds of Soul, Jazz, Funk, Latin, Blues and Acoustic Americana. Known for his fluid style, versatility, and deep musicality, he has built a reputation as both a session musician and a creative force in his own right.

Growing up in the rich musical culture of South Wales, Kingman developed an early love of the guitar, gravitating towards styles that allowed for freedom, groove and improvisation. His early professional years saw him perform with a wide range of bands and artists, earning a reputation for being equally at home in a stripped-back acoustic setting or a full-bodied band ensemble. Over the years, he became an integral part of several groups, including the acclaimed folk-rock duo Zervas and Pepper, trip-hop and dance vocalist Sian Evans, as part of their duo Melopark. He also formed and led the Latin jazz group Sol Latino, and the genre-blending Funk ensemble Quattro.

As a session guitarist, Kingman’s adaptability placed him in demand across multiple genres, working both live and in the studio. His ability to bring authenticity to diverse styles - from soulful ballads and jazz improvisations to fiery Latin grooves - earned him the respect of peers and collaborators alike. This musical breadth has remained a hallmark of his career.

Beyond performing, Kingman also established himself as an entrepreneur and educator. He co-founded Toucan Club, a Cardiff-based music venue that became known as a hub for live jazz, funk, and world music, showcasing both established artists and emerging talent. His commitment to nurturing creativity extended into higher education, where he worked as a university lecturer, inspiring a new generation of musicians with his experience and passion for the craft.

Currently, Kingman continues to push forward with exciting new projects. He is a central figure in The Pepper Seeds, a band that draws on deep soul and funk traditions, and collaborates with internationally respected vocalist Dionne Bennett, bringing a fresh energy to the UK soul and jazz scene. Perhaps most significant is his latest venture, The Kingman Project, a heartfelt collaboration with his son, Ruben Kingman. This father-and-son partnership blends Simon’s decades of musical wisdom with Ruben’s fresh perspective, resulting in a sound that is both rooted and forward-looking. Together, they have been writing and recording a series of original compositions, set for release in Autumn 2025. Ruben has been making a name for himself as one of the hottest young guitarists to emerge from Wales since he joined the scene in his mid teens.

Throughout his career, Simon Kingman has remained committed to authenticity, groove, and connection. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the classroom, his playing reflects a lifelong devotion to music as both an art form and a means of communication. With the upcoming release from The Kingman Project, he continues to evolve, building on a legacy of collaboration, education, and performance that has made him a vital figure in Welsh and UK music.

Today, Kingman stands not only as a guitarist of rare versatility, but as a mentor, bandleader, and innovator whose work continues to resonate with audiences and musicians alike.