When talking about the history of grunge it must be considered that it didn’t just appear out of thin air. It had antecedents and it was the melding of sound, attitude, and history. Although deeply associated with the early 1990s, Grunge has its roots in the diverse music scene of the 1980s and even before … Read more
Potentially the most iconic record label in the world and certainly one of the most famous record labels in the world, Capitol Records was founded in Los Angeles, in 1942 by Johnny Mercer as Liberty Records. Within weeks, the label’s name was changed to Capitol. Mercer was a Tin Pan Alley lyricist, songwriter, singer, and … Read more
In the beginning: The Origins of Atlantic Records In the bustling post-war America of 1947, a narrative began that would have a great impact on the landscape of music. I refer to the creation of Atlantic Records, an entity that would become a cornerstone in the recording industry. Founded by Ahmet Ertegun and Herb Abramson … Read more
Ska was not an overnight sensation; it emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s, coming to life in the vibrant streets of Kingston, Jamaica as the Caribbean Island nation was earning its independence from Britain. In the sweltering heat and the rhythm of island life, a new sound was being born. Here, I talk … Read more
In thinking about the top 5 greatest Motown albums, there are just so many to pick from. One has such an amazing range of albums by such an amazing range of talent over such a long time, that it seems almost an impossible task – a Berry Gordian Knot, you might say. Fear not, though, … Read more
With an HQ nestled on Fourth Avenue in Belltown, Seattle, Sub Pop Records stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant music culture. The label’s inception in 1986 marked a pivotal moment for the Pacific Northwest’s burgeoning musical landscape. It’s fair to say that Bruce Pavitt and Jonathan Poneman, the minds behind Sub Pop, didn’t … Read more
It’s 1957. It’s Memphis, Tennessee and a small record label specializing in country and pop music, but which would become a giant in the world of soul music, is born. This was Stax Records, established by country fiddler Jim Stewart. Originally called Satellite Records, it was soon to attract interest from Stewart’s sister Estelle Axton, … Read more
Reggae music is a genre with a rich history — one that has not only provided a soundtrack for social movements but has also carved a deep groove in the heart of global music culture. It’s a genre that transcends mere sound, encapsulating a philosophy, a way of life, and a powerful means of expression. … Read more
There are many musical genres. From classical to R&B through heavy metal to jazz, rock and pop, via ska and reggae. Here I am going to be exploring the roots of reggae music from its early days in Jamaica in the 1960s through its explosion onto the world stage and subsequent evolution. Just What is … Read more
Another of the World’s most famous record labels is Island Records. Named in honour of the Harry Belafonte song Island in the Sun, the record label first found success outside of Jamaica with Jamaican singer Millie Small’s My Boy Lollipop in 1964. Island Records: Not Just Another Record Label Island Records isn’t just another label; … Read more