Soul II Soul founder Jazzie B backing Mayor Simpson’s music hero awards
‘Our live venues are under threat,’ warns Jazzie B
Published: 27th January, 2011
by RICHARD OSLEY
JAZZIE B, the Camden Town record shop owner who went on to found Soul II Soul, one of Britain’s most successful bands, has backed plans to honour those who keep the borough at the centre of Britain’s musical history.
The Ivor Novello award winner said the “Unsung Heroes” awards, organised by the Mayor’s Office at the Town Hall, was a perfect way to say thanks.
And he called on New Journal readers to play their part by nominating musicians, promoters, teachers and anyone else who has contributed to establishing Camden’s reputation for music.
Suggestions should be sent to Jonathan Simpson, the Mayor, who has devoted his year as the borough’s first citizen to celebrating the area’s musical heritage.
Ahead of Soul II Soul’s gig at the Roundhouse on March 4, Jazzie told the New Journal: “Camden’s venues, clubs and bars continue to attract artists from across the world, many of whom look back with great fondness as they remember their first performances there.
“Madness are well known for starting their career at the Dublin Castle, and many artists such as Blondie, Coldplay, Amy Winehouse, Elvis Costello, Van Morrison and The Ramones all have strong Camden roots.”
He said he was “delighted” that Cllr Simpson had dreamed up the awards at a time when live music venues were struggling to survive.
Jazzie, whose real name is Beresford Romeo and who still lives in Camden Town, said: “Live music is under threat in many parts of London – in the last year alone the sad closure of venues like the Luminaire in Kilburn and the threatened closure of the 100 Club have been all too public.
“At a time when live music is under threat it’s essential for us to celebrate and support the heritage we are lucky enough to have on our doorsteps.
“If we don’t support our heritage we risk losing it and this would be a great travesty.
“I hope that everyone will participate and nominate a friend, neighbour or business for an accolade as one of Camden’s Unsung Heroes.
“It’s not only the bands that have a strong association with Camden but also many cultural buildings. Did you know that Dusty Springfield was born on Fordwych Road in West Hampstead? Prince owned a retail store close to the famous Camden Market. The Beatles held their famous ‘Decca audition’ at the former studios on Broadhurst Lane in West Hampstead. David Bowie also recorded his early albums there. I, myself, ran a successful shop from Camden Town for many years.”
The awards scheme is not being paid for by council funds, with costs covered by sponsors including King’s Cross Central, Apollo and Bulldog.
Jazzie, best known for hits including Back To Life, said: “It is a way for us to celebrate the people who keep this rich music heritage alive.
“People often focus on the success of music performers, forgetting the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make things happen – be it someone who runs a community choir, gives free music lessons or indeed someone who’s tirelessly helped give young bands their first public gig.
“In fact, Camden has almost 1,000 music-related businesses in the borough which provide 7,000 local jobs in the community.”
Send your nomination...
Do you know an unsung musician, music venue manager or teacher who deserves one of the mayor’s awards? Do you know anybody who has played an important role in keeping Camden’s music heritage alive? Make your nominations now. Send your suggestions by March 11 to: Councillor Jonathan Simpson, Mayor of Camden, Town Hall, Judd Street WC1H 9JE. Email: mayor@camden.gov.uk