Greetings this Tunesday. Today is a remembrance day for various reasons. 15 years ago in 2005 it was the surreal and horrific day of the London terrorist bombing attack at several locations. On this day in 2006 the very first ‘info provider for the soul survivor’ issue of The Soul Survivors Magazine was distributed at the Soul Village Weekender. Today 14 years later it will be celebrated as Blackout Day universally as a day when the ethos is to support black owned businesses when you spend your money. So it seems poignant to remind of you of the independently and now totally black owned business The Soul Survivors Magazine.
 
It was co founded as a Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney ‘Ebony & Ivory’ collaboration between Anna Marshall and myself who had both frequented our respective predominantly white and black soul arenas. We had this ideology of a creating a fusion between the two disparaging camps through networking their businesses via the magazine. The magazine kind of took a life of it’s own and over the past 14 years managed to soul survive even through this iSOULated pandemic saga.
 
After 9 years Anna Marshall left in April 2015 and I have retained full ownership and steered this soul boat floating magazine through some quite bigotry, racial and various Bob Marley ‘isms and skizzem’ torrential waters. As a recognised bi monthly printed soul publication amongst two major white owned long running magazines, to my knowledge The Soul Survivors Magazine is if not the only , it’s most certainly one of the very few African Diaspora owned in the UK. Big thanks to all the interviewees, contributors, distributors and readers.
 
Certain documented facts highlighted in the magazine way ahead of the current racial climate, are now playing out and are exposing some of the major ‘movers and fakers’, who claim to love the music but care no where near as much for the indigenous culture it comes from. However we are still here and will be celebrating in just under a months time 1st August 2020 with our 14th anniversary issue. Until then you can for Blackout day go to our website and purchase the limited edition of this first issue or any other issues in the shop. Thanks for reading this and for the support of The Soul Survivors Magazine over the years and Happy anniversary to us…and finally not just today support black businesses as and when you can as if you have the same love for the music. Peace Fitzroy Anthoney Facey
 
Greeting on this June 19th Friday Fitztory morning. There most certainly seems to be an Aled Jones hint of something ‘Walking In The Air’ currently with more disturbing news star side and in the UK revolving around hash tag BLM & hashtag White Privilege. There is still so much to understand and learn before there is any hope of equilibrium peace, but I will endeavour to do my bit to spread the love like butter on hot toast. Most people associate the GAP Band with the commercial classic ‘Oops Upside Your Head’, ‘Outstanding’ and if wanna go a bit left field disco wise ‘Baba Boogie’. I interviewed their front man Charlie Wilson in issue 31 9 years ago in 2011 and he shared some mind blowing previously unknown information about some historical hashtag ‘Black Lives Matter’ history. Read this short each one teach one excerpt and enjoy..Fitzroy
 
Fitzroy : “Why was the band in 1967 called Greenwood Archer and Pine Street Band and later shortened to the Gap Band in the early 70’s?”
 
Charlie Wilson : “My older brother started the group in 1967 which I became part of in the early 70’s. Greenwood Archer and Pine were the three streets of black metropolis in Tulsa Oklahoma where we live. In the early 1920’s Greenwood was full of rich black entrepreneurs and millionaires. It was like the black Wall Street where Wall Street derives from. Everybody on that strip was black and everything was black owned. Something happened in the elevator with a black man and a white woman,where they were both on their way down in a lift. When the doors opened she ran out of the lift to an audience of white people as though the black man had done something to her.They drugged the man and burnt down Greenwood and all in the neighbourhood and there was a riot. Archer and Pine ran perpendicular to Greenwood forming an H again everything was black owned on those three streets. So we took on the name because of the story but the name was too long on the posters if you tried to read it whilst driving by. So we abbreviated to G.A.P. and once through a typographical era, the dots were emitted and the GAP jumped and stood out so we just added the band.”
 
To order the hard copy please go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/product/issue-31-june-july-2011/

Greetings fellow soul survivors and welcome to today’s Friday Fitztory. It felt so poignant to share this today with all that is happening and escalating in Minneapolis Minnesota USA with the brutal racist murder of George Floyd. Both Prince and Sound Of Blackness are a big part of the twin city Minneapolis musical and community fabric. Recorded and published 4 years ago in 2016, look at how providential this conversation extract is in relevance of the present moment with the Black Lives Matter movement which as an African Diaspora man, the cause is important, between myself and Gary Hines of SOB. Read and enjoy Fitzroy Anthoney Facey

 
Fitzroy : I’m going to move things up to date with your new single ‘Royalty’ one that you’ve dedicated to the late Prince who supported your work. The song is about up lifting of people of the Diaspora. We know what’s happening worldwide but more so what’s happening in America. We have our version over here, not on the scale of the USA as the gun laws are very different and with less highlighted prominence. I’ve entered ‘Royalty’ into the People’s Black Music Chart as it fits in with the Sounds Of Blackness ethos of embracing all aspects of black music. There is a disparage in the understanding between the black and white communities which is evident when you see some of the social media comments from those who clearly think on an extreme level, justifying for some of the brutality. I sometimes ask myself are we not watching the same video? (Gary: “Right I hear you.”) How is the song being embraced with its timing being paramount right now?
 
Gary Hines: The urgency and necessities of Royalty have a few foundations. About a year ago Sounds Of Blackness released a song called ‘Black Lives Matter, No Justice No Peace’ and that was in response for what has been going on for generations with the disproportionate incidences and interactions with the police to this day. At the time Prince released a song specifying what happened in Baltimore called ‘Baltimore’ and despite people playing it down, Prince was always about the blackness of his people’s consciousness. Prince called me sometimes at three in the morning wanting Sounds Of Blackness to impress upon the youth how important it was to know who we are. That was a genesis for ‘Royalty’ and a local radio station KMLJ brought together Sound Of Blackness and The High School For Recording Arts as we were speaking about collaborating doing a song, so this is all the recipe of recording Royalty. We’ve just released a ‘reggeaton’ version and a video of the song available.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hi..here is the replay of this mornings show homage to Bill Withers for those who missed it or who wish to listen again. Also big thanks to the 250 plus who like the Bill Withers post and drawings yesterday. Listen and enjoy Fitzroy Anthoney Facey

 

https://www.mixcloud.com/fitzroyfacey7/fitzroys-soul-survivors-show-homage-to-bill-withers-2am-4am-5-4-20mp3/

Tashan-Soul Survivors
Bill Withers-Make Love To Your Mind
Still Bill Interlude
Bill Withers-Ain’t No Sunshine
Michael Jackson-Ain’t No Sunshine
Bill Withers-Close To Me
The Crusaders feat Bill Withers-Soul Shadows
Bill Withers-It Ain’t Because Of Me Baby
Bill Withers-Lovely Day(Rio Mix)
Gladys Knight & The Pips-Who Is She?
Bill Withers-Railroad Man (Phillip Modern Revisitation Mix)
Bill Withers-She Wants To(Get On Down)
Still Bill Grandma’s Hands Interlude
Bill Withers-Grandma’s Hands
Gregory Porter-Grandma’s Hands
Gil Scott Heron- Grandma’s Hands
Still Bill Interlude
Esther Phillips-Justified
Bill Withers-Harlem
Still Bill Interlude
Bill Withers-City Of Angels
The Beaujolais Band-Ain’t No Sunshine
Bill Withers-I’m Your Daddy
Bill Withers- I Want To Spend The Night
Bill Withers- Do It Good
Bill Withers-Where You Are
Bill Withers-Lean On Me
Bill Withers-Wintertime
Jimmy Lindsay-Ain’t No Sunshine
Bill Withers-Better Off Dead
Bill Withers-Naked & Warm

 

 

Morning all, like many fellow soul survivors I am saddened by the passing of ‘Still Bill’ Withers announced yesterday. Upon hearing I listened to all his albums I had at my disposal and watched again the brilliant documentary ‘Still Bill’. I will be showcasing some of this humble spirit’s music on my show on Solar 2am-4am tomorrow morning. The providential thing about Bill’s transition is that for a couple of years and recently during this lockdown (even earlier this week) whilst I’ve been drawing, l kept meaning to interpret his image from his not to be slept on 1977 ‘Menagerie’ album. So in my self iSOULated Bill Withers confined space, I put pencil to paper and here’s my Blue Peter one I made late but earlier yesterday. A true soul survivor Jedi maestro… long may your everlasting  ‘Soul Shadow’ spirit be cast over this world.. Thank you Bill Withers for your gentle and universal spirit, sharing your gift to the world via music and poetry…Rest In Power ?❤️ #billwithers #thesoulsurvivorsmagazine

Greetings to you on this Flashback Friday. After having to put the magazine on hold due to the current pandemic situation and recent conversations with a few encouraging friends and fellow soul survivors, I’ve decided to use some of my musical experiences, articulacy and creative gifts and remain active, and create a new weekly Blog ‘Friday’s Fitztory’ to ‘Spread Love’ like Al Hudson & The Soul Partners. I’ve been fortunate to have deejayed for (and in many cases later) interviewed various iconic artists over the last 27 years. One of them is the man I call ‘Mr Vibes’ aka Roy Ayers. When the Jazz Cafe in Camden, London (circa 1993 onwards) started to host some of the musical messengers who shaped my musical mind, I was a resident deejay and often did many, if not all, of the multiple dates for the artists who performed. After the show I would go upstairs with my albums to get them signed and chat with the artists.

I remember meeting Roy Ayers’ then manager Dennis Armstead an old school American gent, who would greet me warmly and make sure I got to speak with Roy. I remember when I showed Roy my ‘He’s Coming’ and ‘Virgo Red’ albums. He would point out who was who, and who he sacked because they were indulging in drugs. At the time, I never thought of having ‘Candid Camera’ moments with him or any of the many artists, I was just happy to be in their presence, listen to stories and get my albums autographed. If I’d have had a Mystic Meg crystal ball and have known that in the next millennium I’d co-found The Soul Survivors Magazine, those experiences would have been priceless material. Fast forward like a TDK C90 tape, I did manage to interview Roy Ayers for our December 2013 – January 2014 edition and here is an extract which relates to a track from this Blue Peter front cover drawing I did earlier in the week. Read and enjoy. Fitzroy

TSSM: “I have 4 versions of ‘Sweet Tears’, one from David Fathead Newman’s ‘Newmanism’, one from ‘Let’s Do It’ 1978, the Nu Yorican Soul version from 1997 (with Louie Vega) and the first I believe was from ‘He’s Coming.’ I remember deejaying at one of your Jazz Cafe dates and you saying it was inspired by your Mother, how so?”

Roy Ayers: “Yeah it was inspired by my Mother and my Son whom I was leaving behind to travel on the road. Even though my Son stayed with my ex-wife, whose now deceased, he’d often stay with my Mother also. It was a heavy period for me so the words say “Baby though I’m leaving don’t you cry, I’m the one whose grieving, you know why, love is like the wild bird you can’t tie free to stay forever or to fly, though my heart will always stay, gotta make my getaway.” My getaway was to go on the road to entertain people. Wow, you’ve got a good memory to remember that.”

If you’d like to order the issue this came from to read the full interview then go to: https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/…/issue-51-dece…/

#royayers 

 

I have worked with all of these artist performing on Friday 19th July 2019 @ McQueen. Here is my brief synopsis of the history

 

Dez Parkes I call him the musicologist because of his advance knowledge and experience via his many tentacles he has touched in the music industry over more than 40 years. A proud East Ender who danced in the reggae circuit before he became one of the known characters in London’s Soho club circuit, Dez Parkes is one of the most respected DJ’s and connoisseurs of ‘Just Good Music’. As a multitasking DJ, dancer choreographer and label owner, Dez complied the pioneering ‘Rare’ albums on RCA Records circa 1987. He has travelled the world and is respected world wide via his DJ sets and radio shows. Artists like Leroy Burgess and Roy Ayers regard Dez as a personal friend and seek his counsel as well as giving him props for championing and helping to spread their music. Dez will be spinning an eclectic selection of Just Good Music flavours on Friday 19th July at The Soul Survivors Magazine Awards at McQueen in EC2.

 

 

Marc Mac Marc Mac another fellow west Londoner is a pioneer in finding the perfect equilibrium between analogue and digital music production and compositions. One of the main protagonists of the drum & bass and jungle explosion in the 1990s and part of 4hero, Marc has excelled as one of the UK’s universally respected DJ producers around the world. His label Reinforced is a world wide successful entity with a back catalogue that is constantly in popular demand. Marc has worked with many A list artist and outfits including Roy Ayers, Terry Callier, Jody Watley. Masters At Work and Ursula Rucker. Marc will be spinning variety of flavours on Friday 19th July at The Soul Survivors Magazine Awards at McQueen in EC2.

 

 

 

 

Rose Windross Hailed as the ‘First Lady Of Soul II Soul’ Rose Windross is a unique soul survivor with an instantly distinctive vocal delivery upon any track she performs live or as a recording. Rose is the respected dancer first, singer second, like those recognised as dancers first before they became DJs. Albeit she is an out and out jazz funk disco and boogie die hard, Rose made her recording debut in the lovers rock arena as a teenager before she caught the world attention with her co written ruff rugged and raw London beat classic ‘FairPlay’ circa 1988. Rose has been an in demand lead vocalist on various projects in the soul funk, UK garage and house genres over the last 30 plus years and still boogies hard on the dance floor and while she is performing. Celebrating 30 years of recording ‘Fairplay’ Rose will be our special PA on Friday 19th July at The Soul Survivors Magazine Awards at McQueen in EC2.

 

 

Ricky Morrison I’ve known Ricky Morrison a local West London Wembley music enthusiast since he used to come to my late teenage birthday parties in the early 1980’s, when I used to spin off one deck. Ricky was part of a sound system collective called The System Inc in the mid 1980s and eventually struck out on his own and getting into house music production, one of his earlier pseudonyms was 2 Dope Productions and later on as M&S Productions with lifetime friend Fran Sidoli. Ricky also did some of his apprenticeship working in a few of the west end of London’s premier record shops supplying DJs and music lovers with the latest imports which culminated in co owning Catch A Groove Records along with Abbey Shah. Ricky as well as travelling the world DJing in Europe and the USA Miami Conferences he has remixed many projects as well as enjoying success with his M&S project Salsoul Nugget chart selling ‘If U Wanna’. Ricky is resident at McQueen and will be spinning some soulful house with a disco boogie flavour on Friday 19th July at The Soul Survivors Magazine Awards at McQueen in EC2.’

 

Darrell Steaman

Darrell Steaman is an all round music loving kind of soul survivor. He’s been DJing for around 30 years, an occupation he had no intention of entertaining, however being asked to fill in for a friend it became his passion. Playing initially local in his Oxford manor, Darrell has travelled further around the country and in Europe as well as hosting radio shows with a jazz funk soul and broken beat flavour. He is also well travelled attending numerous events around the country, weekenders all nighters and specialist nights. Darrell’s satirical Funkbox column feature has been running since the magazine started in 2006 and he has also played at previous Soul Survivors Awards we’ve held over the last 10 years. One of the industries funniest and nicest gents, Darrell will be spinning on Friday 19th July at The Soul Survivors Magazine Awards at McQueen in EC2.

 

Dezzi D Dezzi D and I were teamed together in December 1990 by our awards artist PA Rose Windross to work with her brother Norris Da Boss Windross at weekly Wednesday night at Soho Theatre London W.1. Ever since we have worked together at various events and I’ve witnessed his ill skills in the mix spinning an amalgamation of 1970’s to the millennium recordings. He has been for the best part of 40 years a very in demand across the board DJ holding long residencies at various establishments UK and beyond. Ticking the jazz funk disco boogie hip hop, house RNB and broken beat genre boxes Dezzi D will be spinning his flavour on Friday 19th July at The Soul Survivors Magazine Awards at McQueen in EC2.

 

 

 

 

Jon Jules and I have much in common being born in north west London, loving music and supporting the COYS. I first came across Jon buying music off him in the mid 1980’s whilst he worked in R&D Records Rayners Lane. He later co owned the shop and was a familiar DJ character working the home counties and London’s west end. Jon also is a recording artist and a remixer and is very knowledgable installing sound systems for major companies in major clubs and venues around the country. After a sabbatical from the scene he has returned with a vengeance and has made quite an impression securing work around the country and and outside. He was runner up for Best Club Dj in our 2017 held awards at Under The Bridge and is up for best radio show in our forthcoming 2019 event. A very liked individual catch Jon spinning an array of music with a disco boogie flavour on Friday 19th July at The Soul Survivors Magazine Awards at McQueen in EC2.

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natasha Watts Best Soul Artist or Band finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natasha has been a rising star on the UK soul scene for 7 years now, With 3 albums under her name a host of collaboration with some of the best the UK has to offer consistent touring supporting the likes of Gladys Knight and The O’Jays  and in last few months recording a full live album with A Hundred Birds Orchestra out of Osaka Japan ! Natasha has on occasion won and achieved runner up status in previous Soul Survivors Magazine awards. Natasha is one hard working lady! To vote for Natasha go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

 

Roni O’Brien Best Radio Show finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

Roni O’Brien – Insatiable Soul – 4pm-6pm It started for me at 13 when I discovered my brother’s record collection. I sneaked into his bedroom and played ‘Turn the music up’ and I was hooked!. I searched for soul pirate radio stations, discovering Horizon, JFM spending all my pocket money on records and concerts.
At college I organised the student discos. I regularly took 800, 17 year olds to Flicks, as well as coach loads to Kisses in Peckham, the Goldmine and Caister Soul Weekend. The presenters that influenced me were Tony Monson, Robbie Vincent, Greg Edwards, Tom Holland and Chris Hill.  I have presented my show ‘Insatiable Soul’ on Solar Radio for 15 years. During this time I was a professional presenter on community station Linkfm. I interviewed hundreds of people from ordinary people to MPs dignitaries and musicians.  Over the years my musical taste has evolved and my show Insatiable Soul reflects that. I have a themed show which is interactive for this reason love to present a live show. I mix old and new music and include the sounds of Anthony Hamilton, Soulutions, Sounds of Blackness, Teddy Pendergrass, Papik and the O’Jays. In 2006 I joined the DJ team at the Caister Soul Weekend, I also present on Caister Radio, in addition, I play at the Margate Soul Festival . I have appeared at Ronnie Scott’s and have a residency at Soul Reunited based in Romford, as well as playing at events all over the South East. To vote for Roni go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

 

 

 

Solar Radio Best soul Internet/ DAB Radio Station finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

 

Solar Radio – a history…Solar Radio launched some 35 years ago in the era of land-based pirate stations, broadcasting soul music to the Greater London area and gaining acclaim as a leader in thefield. The station closed in September 1985 in an ultimately unsuccessful quest to seek an FM licence, but resumed broadcasting in October 1998 on analogue Satellite when an opportunity arose to share a channel, and in June 1999 upgraded to 24 hour broadcasting, taking the further step to Sky Digital in September 2000.Solar Radio has broadcast continuous service from that time, also live streaming from our website at www.solarradio.com , and has continued to embrace new and evolving technology, including a diversity of streaming platforms and self-branded apps, plus an autonomous app for smart speakers. The music policy of Solar Radio has remained faithful to our strapline of “Classic and 21st Century Soul”, with each DJ having free choice of repertoire for airplay, this across the spectrum of soul and related genres to encompass jazz, blues and gospel music, giving airplay to classic artists from the mid-part of the last century onwards and to new and independent artists. The DJs and presenters on the station offer a wealth of experience, talent and musical knowledge, and each show is researched and produced by the DJ to display full empathy with the music and performers, and to interact with listeners via social media with the aim of building a musical bond. To vote for Solar Radio go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Soul Family Affair Best Soul Weekender finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

As a young and very naive 14 year old at the local youth club disco watching the older lads playing records on the cobbled together double decks, I thought I’d like to have a go at that and as the saying goes the rest really is history. Very soon it was me playing the records at the disco,12 months later I had own disco system this then led onto the usual weddings and parties circuit. In 1980 I was offered my 1st Dj residency on a Sunday night playing jazz funk and soul @ The Jenyns Arms in Norfolk this ended up lasting 20 years during that time many other residences also came along. In 2007 I was offered the chance to promote my very own soul weekend in Hunstanton on the Norfolk coast the weekend was soon affectionately known as the Sunny Hunny Soul Weekend. (This is mainly 60’s & 70s Soul & Motown along with a current jazz funk & boogie room) In 2013 Soul Family Affair was born off the back of Sunny Hunny, since then the event has grown each year, Ian Reading came on board in 2014 & I am proud to say we haven’t looked back. The general consensus seems to be that SFA is extremely laid back relaxed & friendly in fact I’ve had people refer to it as the best kept secret of the soul world! Thank you for the nomination. See you all at SFA 2020 when Phil Fearon will be our very special guest. To vote for SFA go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheeky Radio Best soul Internet/ DAB Radio Station finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

 

 

 

Founded by husband and wife team Debra & Mark Lee and officially launched in February 2017, Cheeky Radio set out to try and do something a little different in an already crowded niche radio market by attempting to find that middle ground between an anthems play-out and something for the more discerning palate. Cheeky Radio caters for all soulful, jazzy and dance related genres with shows presented by established presenters and known live DJ’s as well as giving new presenters with no previous experience the chance to work in radio after some initial training by us. By doing this we’ve created our own unique sound and audience without taking them from other stations. The station is non-profit making, plays very few adverts and has a fantastic family atmosphere amongst our hard working presenters with whom we are grateful and very appreciative for their dedication and enthusiasm in presenting shows with a passion and knowledge of the music they play.We’ve been astounded at the stations rate of growth and the positive feedback received over the last two and half years and we are truly grateful to all our listeners for the support they’ve given us and of course, for nominating us in the Soul Survivors Awards for Best Internet / DAB Soul Radio Station for 2018. It is beyond our wildest dreams. Thank you to the each and every one of you who did so, and also a big thank you to Mr. Fitzroy Facey for producing the Soul Survivors Magazine THE essential publication for the music we know and love. To vote for Cheeky Radio go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Soul Central Best Club Event Midlands & North of the UK finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

 

A group of music lovers from Manchester had a passion for contemporary soul music and got talking over a glass of wine one evening. We wanted our own night and party vibe where our favourite tunes could be played to like-minded people…just as it was for us going out back in the 90’s.
Angela Mac along with husband and DJ Paul Mac plus friends, DJs Brian ‘Bizzy B’ Pemberton and Mike Stephens – well known figures on the UK soul scene – founded the brand Soul Central. We started off small at Texture in the Northern Quarter in 2016 and built up a core following that organically grew to the point where we needed to move to a bigger venue. The ‘iconic’ Band on The Wall in Manchester suited the Brand perfectly. Here we continued to build on our original vision to deliver a quality soul night with the DJs playing a mix of new, classic soul and RnB. As Soul Central developed, we invited highly respected DJs from across the UK who also brought their own unique vibe, alongside our resident DJs Mike, Paul and Bizzy. Our next big event is ‘The All Nighter’ at Night People, Manchester on 10th August 2019, including Acid Jazz Recording Artist LAVILLE and 11 guest DJs playing a mixture of Soulful Grooves. Our ethos is to support independent Artists and our club nights are about playing their tunes to other music enthusiasts. We’ve also loved being able to provide promotional and DJ support for an incredible array of artists coming to Manchester from the UK and USA. To vote for Soul Central go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

SOULUTIONS Best Soul Artist or Band finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

SOULUTIONS are the writing team of Steve Lee and Louise Mehan. Steve and Louise have known each other for over 20 years and performed together in the local clubs and pubs in the North East of England for most of that time, however, they began writing their own songs in 2007. They performed these songs under the guise of AMBIENCE, including the timeless Listen, in local venues but unfortunately they weren’t received well and the material was shoved in a drawer. Disheartened, the song writing was put on hold until 2014 when, through the persistence of Louise’s mother, Paul ‘Bumski’ Redfern, the foresight and brilliance of Gary Van den Busche and the mixing skills of Billy April (Dizabone) the track Listen became an overnight success. This gave Steve and Louise the confidence to pick up the quill again, and, in August of this year they will release their third Album ‘FATE’ following on from DESTINY and THANKFUL. Not content with just writing songs the couple wanted to showcase their songs to a public who was just as eager to see this modern soul outfit from the North East So they went about putting together a nine-piece (sometimes 10!) band, and for the last four years have performed up and down the country with overwhelming success. Steve and Louise are so proud to be nominated in the Best Soul Artist/Band category in the Soul Survivor Awards and to win the award outright would make all the very late nights in the studio, the arguments, the laughs and sometimes all the tears are worthwhile. To vote for I Got Soul  go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bruk Up Best Club Event Midlands & North of the UK finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

We started 9 years ago the brainchild of DJ E Double D who ask three mates ( Flash G, Anne, & Garry) who shared his passion for Broken Beat and Nu Jazz music to start a night after there was no more regulars nights like this no more. After the mighty Co Op, Deep and Liquid Fusion nights stop there was no where to hear this kind of music. So instead of moping around we changed that and Bruk Up was Born.  The name came from when dancers use to challenge and say I am going to Bruk you up. This is what Bruk Up is about dancing and the music. Once you come thru the doors for the first time your now Part of the Bruk Up family and the vibe is just like that. We have had Dego, Bugz in the Attic, Kaidi Tatham, Mark de Clive Lowe, Henry Wu, Marcia Carr, DJ Amazon, Rui Fradinho and Jazzrefreshed to name but a few that have graced our parties.  As we continue we was glad to see other nights coming back which welcome and also attended. We will always champion this unique genre and if you have not come yet we will see you soon but be warned as at the end of the night with all that dancing you will feel the Bruk Up experience. To vote for Bruk Up go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Hayling Island Best Soul Weekender finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

Hayling Island Summer Soul weekender & Hayling Island Spring Reggae & Soul weekender is the brainchild of 2 long time friends Scott James & Orlando Gittens. The former hailing from Romford & the latter  from Brixton they came together  with the simple objective of creating  a diverse musical village environment where all are welcomed.  Orlando & Scott have blended their cultural influences into a seamless aural weekend where all nations come together & simply party like there is no tomorrow. No area of black music goes untouched, the soul classics that rock the discos in Essex sit aside the  2 step classics that rock the basement blues in Brixton. Perfect, Brilliant, fun, laughter, love! Hayling Island is all of that & a bag of chips & Ackee ! To vote for Hayling Island go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

SALOU SOUL Best Soul Holiday finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018


Salou Soul Weekender’s 1st event was in 2009 and by popular demand, it’s now approaching its 11th event in Spain 5th-11th Sept 2019 attracting soul music lovers from right across the UK, USA, Trinidad, Malaga, Benidorm, Switzerland & Barcelona. This event sells out every year with over 450 attendees. 6 nights & 5 days of musical massage awaits you. Set up as a soul music holiday for the grown-ups with exclusive event band only entry. Soul Survivors Magazine nominated for Best Soul Holiday 2019. Runner up Best Soul Holiday Award Winner for 2011 & 2017. Nightly club events in a variety of fabulous venues with great sound systems exclusively for Salou Soul attendees including themed party nights, daytime events include a daytime cocktail party with panoramic views, optional catamaran cruise with drinks included plus DJs playing soulful grooves around a massive beautiful swimming pool on various days. Salou is a great location only 15 minutes cab travelling time from Reus Airport & 90 minutes transfer from Barcelona. The hotel offers a varied programme of events, entertainment & shows, situated close to the beach & town centre. Our events are within easy walking distance of the hotel. Surrounding the building are expansive landscaped gardens, which play host to 3 swimming pools & spacious sun terraces. A top line up of professional UK Soul club & Radio DJs entertain you. Musically you’ll hear the best in 70’s, 80’s, 90’s soul classics, rare grooves, disco, funk, boogie, jazz funk, soulful house, classic smooth Rnb, New Soul, revival & more in the company of the friendliest likeminded over 35’s crowd you’re ever likely to meet. To vote for Salou go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

SOUL SHACK Best Club Event London & The Home Counties finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

Established in 1998 is now in it’s 21st year SOUL SHACK is YOUR 3rd Saturday of  EVERY MONTH Soul night out @ Britannia, 20 Monument Street, London, EC3R 8AJ, excellent bar prices! the best prices in the city. We attract a friendly over 35’s soul music loving crowd from all walks of life. For info & party bookings email info@soulshack.com  Resident Dj’s & founders are Solar Radio’s Ash Selector & Mi Soul’s James Anthony. Soul Shack was a weekly  Saturday Soul Night Out for the 1st 3 years of its existence and at one stage there was 4 weekly Soul Shack’s across London on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Soul Shack also went on tour to Great Yarmouth. Now operating as a 3rd Saturday of every month event. Live performances at the Soul Shack have included todays new artists including…Sa-ha-ra, Shaila Prospere, Wez, Westcoast Soulstars, Everis, Princess Freesia, Muhammad Ayers (USA), Natasha Watts, Bashiyra, Soulutions to Soul Legends including Light of the World, Junior Giscombe, Rose Windross (Soul II Soul), Change, David Joseph, Ray Carless, Shabazz (USA),Onita Boone (Germany), Georgie B (Second Image/The Groove Association), Heather Haywood (The Cool Notes), Hi-Tension, Glen Goldsmith, DaPaul, Deborah Bell, SA-HA-RA, Soulpersona. An unmissable night out worth travelling for! We’ve seen visitors from USA, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Spain, New Zealand, Austalia, Sweden,  right across the UK and more…To vote for Soul Shack go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Zero Radio Best soul Internet/ DAB Radio Station finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

Established in 2008, Zero Radio was founded by two very passionate Zero6 DJs from back in the 70/80’s, Ian Reading and Merv Griffiths who felt it was about time some of the fun and vibe from back in the day was recreated for those who were looking for something more than mainstream radio or Uber specialist stations had to offer. The station set out to play a soulful mix of music reminiscent of the best clubbing days ever and since that day, the passion and enthusiasm continues to flow in the form of a radio station committed to bringing you the best alternative soulful music together with a great selection of NuJazz and Soul that is typically forgotten about on commercial radio of today. Combined with over 25 committed DJs presenting live shows, the station prides its self with quality output 24/7 with unparalleled uptime. 

Since its inception ZeroRadio has been nominated for ‘Soul Survivors Best Radio Station’ and achieved “runner up” 3 years in a row against some of the most established stations. The team are very proud of this as it lists among the TOP Three soul based radio stations in the UK and the other two are broadcasting on DAB. This is a huge achievement for ZeroRADIO! 
We also support some pretty impressive events throughout the year as well.
Zero Radio now  broadcast via a bespoke app for both iPhones & Android and our website is built using the latest technology so you can reach us via your smart TVs as well! To vote for Zero go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Mi Soul Best soul Internet/ DAB Radio Station finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

 

Mi-Soul is a Soulful Music platform, broadcasting across London, Brighton and Manchester on DAB, online and mobile phone apps from a fully equipped studio based in the Stephen Lawrence Trust building.  A team of over 70 DJs, the most experienced, credible and passionate in the industry, present a wide range of ‘Soulful’ music live 24/7, to an audience in the 30 – 60 age range. Mi-Soul was founded by Gordon Mac and Martin Strivens, the leading lights behind the hugely successful Kiss FM brand.  Gordon was both the first person to launch a pirate radio station which subsequently became legal and the youngest Managing Director of a radio station company at 29.  Earlier this year, Mi-Soul launched 2 new online streams – Mi-House and Mi-Grooves. To vote for Mi Soul go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Music Without Labels Best Club Event London & The Home Counties finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

When Dr Bob Jones tells you to start DJ’ing again after almost 10 years ‘out of the game’ you kind of have to listen. He has been one of many musical influencers since the 70’s and followed up his comment by booking me in 2013 at his 45 And Beyond gig. It was great being back behind the decks although I was nervous as my musical taste had moved very left of center but was surprised when my set was embraced. Following this, bookings started to come in together with guest slots of radio shows. One of these with Graham-Grumpy Brown on Stomp had an in-depth off-air conversation about the genre of music I was now into having hailed from Jazz back in the 70’s. My reply was instant and heartfelt, why give it a label, if you feel it, just play it. Music Without Labels was born with a simple thought. I create my own events so that i can play what I want, I don’t give it a label as I believe this devides us. To this end I never tell the DJ’s I book to play anything obvious, I ask them to push the dance floor, play left of center, make us want to discover new music. MWL are a team and we have been lucky to have had very succesful events bringing across DJ/Producers and musicians such as Gerardo Frisina, Josh Milan, Vick Lavender, Elbert Phillips, Ralf Gum and coming this November, Cristian Vinci. we have a strong following and for this we are blessed. To vote for MWL go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

SOUL BY THE JETTY Best Club Event London & The Home Counties finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When we started Soul by the Jetty on Canvey Island (the home of the original Goldmine) in October 2009, we had no idea that we’d still be here and up for another award again 10-years later! We put the night on approximately every 2-3 months and now run by myself and Brian Kelly, the Jetty has always had a policy of playing new music and quality retro cuts and trying to avoid the obvious anthems where possible. It’s the edge to the music that has always attracted our loyal crowd as well as new friends and we are lucky enough to have people attending from all over the UK and further afield! We attract a mature crowd who want to dance and party like we used to back in the day at The Goldmine and similar clubs. We’ve also attracted some great guest DJ’s who understand the Jetty vibe and genuinely enjoy being able to express themselves with a broad cross-section of soul styles. (Next Jetty is 24th August with guest Paul Clark!) We are lucky enough to have won the Best Soul Club (Outside London) award twice and runner-up before that so to be included again in such illustrious company is both an honour and a privilege! Thanks again to all the Soul Survivors who have voted to get us this far and fingers crossed for a great night on 19th July!
Jonny Layton. To vote for  Soul In The Jetty go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Summer Soulstice Soul Festival finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

Summer Soulstice is a not-for-profit fundraising event, started in 2007 in memory of Andy Weekes, a friend and brother to the event’s organisers. This family friendly, one day festival of soul is held annually in Barnet, north London at the end of June and has grown in size and popularity over the years. It brings together soulful people of all ages from across the south east and all corners of the UK and beyond. We raise money for a local independent charity, Cherry Lodge Cancer Care, as well supporting other smaller local causes close to our heart. With a heavyweight line-up of some of the UK’s finest soul and house DJs plus an impressive list of live artist performances over the years, Summer Soulstice has become a firm favourite on the UK soul calendar. With the generosity and support of everyone who helps to organise, volunteer, sponsor and come along each year to support, in the sunshine and rain, the festival has so far raised and donated over £300,000 to Cherry Lodge to help them continue their good work for people suffering with cancer. Summer Soulstice 2019 takes place on Saturday 22nd June at Old Elizabethans Memorial Playing Fields, Barnet.

To vote for Summer Soulstice  go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VyBE Best Club Event Midlands & North of the UK finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018 VyBE
VyBE Soul Central Best Club Event Midlands & North of the UK finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018 VyBEWe are delighted to be nominated in the category Best Club in the North West and Midlands.  The event has grown over 10 years and now sees 3 different rooms of Nu Soul House and Jazz and 70’s/80’s Soul. It has developed and grown and now  invites live independent artists from the States, Uk and Continental Europe to perform at the event. We have had the honour to host the likes of Sheree Hicks, Tracy Hamlin, Nicole Mitchell, Kim Tibbs, Jay Nemor, Faye B, Pete Simpson, Earl TuTu, Natasha Watts and Cornell Carter, plus some super DJ’s such as Sean Ali Groove Assassin, Sean McCabe, Terry Jones,  Bigger and John Khan.  Colin Curtis heads our team of DJ’s including Paul Garland, Pete Haigh, Jigs, Mike Stephens, Kev Oxberry, Barry Maleady, Steve Plumb,  Dave Hulmes, Bill Wildman, John Townend. For us the event is about showcasing wonderful live acts, and fabulous DJ’s all in a fantastic venue, at a price that makes this fantastic music accessible to all.  Its also about integrating people no matter where they come from and for the last few years people have attended from all over the country from Scotland to Dorset and Cornwall!!  VyBE is an exciting event where people are made to feel comfortable and part of the event, and no one is quite sure what might happen or indeed who might turn up!  Central to this event is of course the music and the glue that holds it altogether! Going forward, next years event will be held on 15th/16th Feb 2020 featuring our fabulous Dj’s once again and the wonderful Joey Negro! Love Soul, Love VyBE!! Thanks to all for their continued support. Best Jan
 
To vote for Vybe go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Luxury Soul Weekender Best Soul Weekender finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

The Luxury Soul Weekender has been established since 2003 at the 4-star Grand Hotel from elite venue selection formerly known as the Hilton Blackpool. The Weekender prides itself on offering 5 rooms of soul including live artists that in the past has included Dennis Taylor, Roy Ayers, Bobby Womack, Jean Carn, Cool Million, Incognito, Billy Paul and Chapter 8 to name but a few. Over the 16 years the event has been running with seen acts come from America, Europe and Asia supporting our unique event on behalf of Richard Searling, Ralph Tee and Ian Tolley, we thank everybody for their continued support and look forward to seeing you at one of our fantastic events in the near future we would also like to add we are delighted to be nominated for this fantastic award see you on the dance floor. To vote for LSW go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer Breeze Best Soul Holiday finalist in the Soul Survivors Magazine Awards for 2018

Ian Charles has a long history with Corfu that stretches back to the mid-eighties, so when the idea of Summer Breeze Soul Week blossomed during a trip there in 2011 with ex-club owner and DJ Peter Little it seemed the obvious thing to do. Phone calls were made to contacts and friends with one call in 2013 leading to a meeting with James Anthony. A team was put together, some of that original team remain to this day, DJs and artists were booked and in June 2014 the first Summer Breeze Soul Week took place. It was an inauspicious start with 85 attending nearly everyone was either Staff, a DJ, an Artist or a Friend. In 2015 the numbers almost doubled, mostly by word of mouth. In the winter of 2015 Summer Breeze restructured in time for the 2016 event where the trend continued and almost 300 joined us in Corfu. By now Summer Breeze had a core of DJs at its heart, that set the musical values and standards for the event by finely balancing entertaining and playing to the crowd while also introducing new music and artists from across the soul spectrum. A few tweaks, a few additions, some guest DJs and a policy of inviting headline acts, flying in US artists and supporting UK Soul talent has seen numbers increase year on year. Summer Breeze 2019 sold out within 48 hours of going on sale and this was before the Artists or DJs had even been announced. After another successful event in Summer Breeze is now looking forward to taking everyone on another emotional roller coaster in 2020. They have a message in their music and people are listening.

To vote for Summer Breeze go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I started DJing at friends house parties when I was about 16 years old. Soul music was my favourite and still is. Then begun DJing at various pubs in the Old Kent Road from about 18 years old and begun some club residencies including Bon Bonnie in Herne Hill and Pantiles in Bagshot Surrey for over 8 years. I started presenting radio shows on various pirate stations in London including Kiss FM in the pirate days which was a big break for me.  When Kiss became legal in 1990 I presented the early weekend breakfast show for over 4 years, as well as covering daytime slots. I now present breakfast on Solar Radio weekdays 8am – 10am. I’ve been doing Solar breakfast for over 8 year’s now. I’m still DJing at various clubs and soul holidays, as well as my own events. Soul Music is my therapy. It still gives me goosebumps. To vote for Dennis O’Brien go to https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/vote/

Taking some of George Benson’s music ‘In Flight for two hours of music and chat. As our issue 81 for April & May 2019 main front cover feature artist interview, we just wanted to give you an insight to his 55 years as a recording artist. To get your full interview copy go to our website https://www.thesoulsurvivorsmagazine.co.uk/membership/ and get yours for £3..Click on the image to enjoy the podcast…listen and enjoy Fitzroy