I’m not Latino...I am of Bangladeshi heritage. But I was brought up at a time in London where all immigrant communities stuck together. So I spent my whole youth in a mixed immigrant setting – it’s where I feel most comfortable to today.
My childhood was filled with laughter and music, surrounded by many cousins as close as my siblings. But in the 70s and 80s racism was far more open; it was very grim in terms of the atmosphere on the streets back then. As a result I spent my 20s running away from London and spending time in all continents.
My mum made me start classical piano lessons at the age of 4 and by doing this, she gave me a best friend for life. I began studying jazz piano as a teenager. There was a Brazilian pianist studying with me who'd teach me Brazilian tunes.
Eddie Palmieri put me on the road to learning about Latin Piano with 'Live at Sing Sing' album. It changed why life. I remember going to see Roberto Pla and Robin Jones here in London at around 18 and was amazed by their big bands. I never imagined I would be playing with them years later! Then I went to Cuba and lived there two years, which changed my musical life again.
The most useful piece of advice I’ve been was from the late Hilaire Penda (Cameroonian virtuoso bass player). He told me to practice every day.
The biggest obstacle I've had to overcome is Racism. People make ridiculous judgements. There's never been one event that impacted me specifically but the series of events marking the end of the British Empire I feel are hugely significant. The UK was built on the blood of all our ancestors - it should never be forgotten and is sadly not taught in schools.
I love London despite its issues. I am blessed to play with many communities from all over the world, that live here or are simply passing through. We teach each other our traditions and being part of this incredible music community in London is the best.
Watching people learn to dance salsa makes me laugh. I spent two years in the late 90s playing every week at Bar Salsa. We would set up amidst the dance classes. Things have changed now, but back then was a great example of how non-Latinos, especially northern Europeans, create the most incredible movements totally out of time and with no grace, but with the attitude of the world greatest dancers. It was a joy to behold, made acceptable by their enthusiasm but simply worlds away from what I see in the Latin community. I'm definitely not one to talk if you see me dancing - but It really is a very fun sight to see.
There are similarities between Latin America and Asia. The reality is that most of the world outside Northern Europe and North America is quite similar - similar attitudes to family, food, children, noise, music, chaos. We also have similar issues back in our countries of origin or roots.
My favourite London places are…Sounds of the Universe Record store (Soho), Hampstead Heath, Jam in the Jar - Green Lanes - great people, great music. I love every park in London and the canals.
My favourite word in English is Kerfuffle - ridiculous word
The word I most dislike…Jobsworth - it describes what it is
Lokkhi Terra's performs on June 24th as part of LatinoLife INtimo dinner-concerts. Book here
