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UPDATE: As the change is now in force for some users, I have switched the navigation to the simplified one for the new system. Please check Navigation in the Help section if you can't find things. I also initially made small adjustments to the front page layout, but have now reverted to the old look until all users are on the new system.
COUNTDOWN: Just a reminder for people still using Monaco that the final switch to the new skin is due on Nov. 3. After that, it will no longer be offered as an option. Sorry. Nothing to do with me.
Black Roots are a roots reggae band from the St. Paul's area of Bristol, England, formed in 1979. They toured extensively in the UK and Europe in the 1980s and early 1990s releasing several albums and singles during that time before disappearing from the music scene for about ten years. Their comeback began when Soundicate/Makasound, a record label in France, released an album in 2004 and followed it up with another in 2007 (both were compilations made up from their extensive back catalogue). In December 2010 they performed their first live show for some twenty years at the Trinity Hall in Bristol and since then they have been active once again, playing live dates and releasing a new album.
The original line-up of the band included Errol Brown (vocals), Delroy O'Gilvie (vocals), Kondwani Ngozi (congas, vocals), Jabulani Ngozi (rhythm guitar), Cordell Francis (lead guitar), Trevor Seivwright (drums), and Derrick King (bass guitar). They soon got into routine of regular performances across the UK and appeared on the first Rockers Roadshow television programme broadcast of Channel 4. Their first (self-titled) album was released on their Kick, and the band was commissioned by the BBC to write and record the theme song to the sitcom The Front Line.
The band gained notable following in 1981 after John Peel showcased their debut EP on his show, the revered Radio One DJ famously telling his audience:
"If anyone tells you that there's no such thing as good British reggae, first tell them they’re a Herbert, then show them Black Roots."[1]
In the years that followed, the band toured the UK and Europe playing clubs, venues, college parties and regular festivals likeGlastonbury, touring with the likes of UB40, making TV appearances and releasing several successful albums including Black Roots, The Frontline, In Session and more.
In a December 2019 interview with the 365 Bristol website, Black Roots member, Jabulani, praised Peel amongst others for helping the band:
"Rest in peace John Peel who helped make us. After he showcased us we got tours, doors started opening. Him, Peter Powell and Kid Jensen were the only DJs who played reggae and our music in those days." [2]
