From Pendeford to global playlists: PBN returns to Wolverhampton to inspire the next generation

Internationally acclaimed music producer and entrepreneur Harpreet Singh Jandu, better known as PBN (Panjabi By Nature), has returned to Wolverhampton - not just to reflect on his remarkable journey, but to help others begin theirs.

In an exclusive interview with Life, the University of Wolverhampton’s Alumni Magazine, Harpreet revisits the very office at Wolverhampton Science Park where, nearly two decades ago, he handed in his notice to pursue music full-time. Today, he’s back - this time launching Playback Creates, a not-for-profit company dedicated to nurturing young talent and promoting Punjabi art and heritage in the region.

“I’m a creative, an artist, an entrepreneur. I want to nurture British-born talent and give them opportunities I never had,” Harpreet says. His efforts are already bearing fruit, with emerging artists like Rose Bahar performing internationally before even debuting locally.

Born and raised in Wolverhampton, Harpreet’s musical roots trace back to Pendeford High School and youth clubs across the city. A council-funded recording studio at Newhampton Arts Centre became his second home, where he learned the craft alongside regional legends like Beverley Knight. Despite studying business at the University, music remained his true calling.

After early success on the UK Bhangra scene, a breakthrough tour in Australia launched him onto the international stage. Since then, PBN has earned nine number-one singles on the Official Asian Music Chart, produced music for the 2022 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony, and seen his work go viral—most notably when Catherine Zeta-Jones danced to one of his tracks in a documentary filmed in India.

His music has also featured in the BBC drama Virdee, and he’s now composing for the UK’s first-ever South Asian pantomime, set to debut at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre. Bollywood has come calling too, with Harpreet recently approached to contribute songs to an upcoming film.

With over 170 million YouTube views and 20 million Spotify streams, PBN’s music continues to resonate globally. But his focus now is firmly on giving back.

David Wedge, Head of Alumni & Development said, “Harpreet’s journey from student to global artist, and now mentor and changemaker, reflects the very best of what our alumni community represents. Through his new ventures, he’s creating opportunities for young people to thrive in the creative industries, right here in the city that shaped him.”

The full interview appears in the latest issue of Life, celebrating alumni who are using their experiences to uplift others and create lasting impact. You can read the 2025 Edition here: Alumni Life Magazine – University of Wolverhampton