Tibo Step - 10 Questions

Tibo Step: Dreamy Grooves and Soulful Stories.

Tibo Step (Thibaut Stepczynski) is a Swiss-born, London-based artist, producer, and guitarist whose music drifts between groove, indie-soul, and dream pop. With silky guitar lines, intimate vocals, and playful synth textures, he crafts songs that feel both luminous and melancholic.

After moving to London to study at Guildhall, Tibo quickly became part of the city’s vibrant scene, collaborating with artists such as Nnavy, Gareth Donkin, Sam Wills, Lavender, Latir, and August Charles. On stage, he’s joined by his band – Max Timlin (drums), Freddie Rupp (bass), Lucia Kacho (guitar), and Ben Stewart (keys) – bringing a soulful energy to festivals and venues like Montreux Jazz Festival, Ronnie Scott’s, The Great Escape, and even Glastonbury.

His recent album, Quartz (March 2025), transforms difficult memories into shimmering grooves and introspective soundscapes. Lead singles include Let It Go, a soulful electronic track about impossible love, and Tôt ou Tard, his first French-language release inspired by 80s synths.

With his blend of warmth, groove, and sincerity, Tibo Step is carving out a unique space in today’s independent music world – one heartfelt song at a time.

Tibo Step sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

To be honest, it all started when I was just a year old. My parents took me on a year-long trip to California, and on the road they kept playing Californication by the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Santana’s Caravanserai. I think that really shaped my ears and, later on, inspired me to pick up the guitar.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Since the early days of his career, I’ve been a big fan of Mk.gee — his unique approach to production really shaped the way I think about sound. I’ve also drawn inspiration from Puma Blue in my songwriting and from Nick Hakim for his analog sensibilities. More recently, I’ve been enjoying the 90s influences coming back through artists like Eliza and Vegyn. That’s the kind of direction I’m leaning towards on my upcoming EP, which I’m creating in collaboration with Hana Amaya.

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

Alongside the projects where I play guitar or work as a producer and mixing engineer, I’m currently working on a collaborative EP with the talented Hana Amaya, set for release in the coming months. I’m also developing my third LP as Tibo Step, as well as an EP with Devansh, a New Yorker based in London. The new music will sound quite different from my previous releases — inspired by artists like a.s.o., Jai Paul, Dijon, and Mk.gee. I’m exploring raw textures and electronic possibilities, finding a balance between digital production and my collection of quirky, inexpensive analog gear.

4. How would you describe your sound?

My sound is unique in that I’ve been producing in my room for nearly 10 years, collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds along the way. As a professionally trained guitarist and producer, I like to write using a mix of instruments — from guitar to drum programming and sampling. I love building songs by layering dreamy chords, finding a sweet groove, and weaving in electronic textures. On top of that, I add my vocals, aiming for melancholic melodies and lyrics that carry real meaning.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Performing on the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury was definitely a special moment, and I can’t wait to be back on the road. But as an artist, I’d say my proudest moment was my sold-out release show for my latest album Quartz in London. We played with the full band in an art exhibition space in Peckham, with the audience gathered in a circle around us. It felt so powerful to perform songs that had taken me nearly two years to finish. The feedback from the crowd was incredible, and the atmosphere was truly wholesome – a memory I’ll carry with me for a long time.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Haha, that’s a funny one – and honestly, I keep asking myself the same thing. To be completely transparent, there isn’t much money to be made from gigs or streaming. But if I had to start all over again, I’d still do it without hesitation. The friendships and close connections I’ve made through music are truly priceless.

If you’re just starting out, my advice would be to pick an instrument that really inspires you – or even just a program to start recording and experimenting with your creativity. Music has the power to stimulate you as a person and can help you get through difficult times. For me, it’s been a way to overcome challenges and find strength in the process.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

I’d recommend checking out Arjuna Oakes! If you get the chance, definitely see him live. The last time I caught his gig at Ronnie Scott’s, it was unforgettable. As soon as he started singing a song about the weight of the world, the entire crowd fell silent, and I instantly had tears in my eyes. Just Arjuna, his soul, his voice, his keys, and his wonderful band. I feel so lucky to not only have witnessed that show, but also to count him as a friend. 

Another artist worth checking out is Harvey Causon. Like Arjuna, I first discovered him live, and whenever he plays around London I try my best to catch his shows. The songwriting and production in his tracks are on another level. Most of all, I find his work incredibly inspiring.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

I love interviews, it’s always nice to share my latest musical obsessions, even though I’m sure I’ll forget a few records I’ve been hooked on lately. Definitely Londra by Qendresa, an all-time classic for me is Apollo XXI by Steve Lacy, and I’ve also been really into outside of your lifetime by Astrid Sonne for her incredible use of textures.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

That’s a good question, one I ask myself sometimes. Relationships are really important to me, so I put a lot of energy into my social life, spending time with friends and building a sense of community. Outside of that, I enjoy walking or cycling around and discovering hidden spots and niche places in London.

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

My new Fender Jaguar, my Tascam 4-track tape recorder, my laptop, and its lovely plugins - ahahah.