Makoto Shimizu, known simply as Makoto, is one of the most respected and enduring figures in drum & bass. Originally from Tokyo and now based in London, his sound blends soulful musicality with the energy of UK bass culture.
Inspired by artists such as Ryuichi Sakamoto, he began producing after discovering drum & bass through Gilles Peterson’s radio shows. His breakthrough came in 1999 when LTJ Bukem signed him to Good Looking Records, launching a career defined by his signature fusion of fast breaks and soul.
He has since released extensively, including three albums on Hospital Records, alongside releases on UKF, DnB Allstars, Liquicity and his own imprint Human Elements. His collaboration with MC Conrad on 'Golden Girl' remains a genre classic.
Continuing to evolve, Makoto’s music blends soul, disco and funk influences into modern drum & bass, while he maintains a global touring schedule across Europe, the Americas and Asia.