Santigold (born Santi White on September 25, 1976) is an alternative rock musician, songwriter and producer from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States who formerly went under the stage name Santogold. She is perhaps best known for the song L.E.S. Artistes which became a hit in the UK and on American alternative radio. In February 2009, she officially changed her stage name to Santigold as a result of infomercial jeweller Santo Gold threatening legal action against White and her label Downtown Records.
White was lead singer of the Philadelphia-based punk rock/ska band Stiffed, but while in the band, she was offered a solo contract. Working with fellow Stiffed member John Hill as co-producer, she recorded her debut album, Santogold, which was released in April 2008. Santigold’s style has been defined as a mix of dub, electronica, indie rock, new wave, and alternative rock.
Upon the change of her stage name, her label Downtown Records issued this press release:
“Change the graffiti on the bathroom wall, get your tattoo fixed, get your T-shirt airbrushed and change the name on your year-end list: Santogold is now Santigold. She’s not telling you why, that’s just how it is.” |
