Don Letts shares his rich musical journey, starting from his childhood in Brixton, where he experienced a blend of Jamaican and British music. He reflects on the cultural impact of radio and television on music consumption, the profound influence of The Beatles, and his personal connection with Bob Marley. Letts also discusses the rise of reggae in the UK, the intersection of punk and reggae, and a memorable concert - seeing The Who at the Old Vic Theatre.

Don also tells us how he ended up on stage with Patti Smith at the Hammersmith Odeon, spent time with Bob Marley & how he came to DJ & film at the first punk venue - The Roxy in Covent Garden.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yvonne Innes joins us to explore the life and legacy of Neil Innes, touching on his early days in Soho, his experiences with the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, and his connections with Monty Python and The Beatles. Yvonne shares personal anecdotes about their life together, the creative process behind Neil's music, and his impact on children's television. The discussion also details the formation of The Grimms, the success of 'How Sweet to Be an Idiot', and the cultural significance of the Rutles.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we delve into the life and music of Arthur Russell, exploring his eclectic style, early influences, and the New York Lower East Side music scene that shaped his career. Richard shares insights from his book 'Travels Over Feeling: Arthur Russell', discussing Arthur's unique approach to music, his connections with notable figures, and the cultural context of his work. The conversation highlights Arthur's impact on the music world and the enduring legacy of his artistry.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

This conversation delves into the life and career of Arthur Russell, exploring his unique approach to music, his performance habits, and the impact of the AIDS epidemic on his work. We discuss Russell's eclectic style, his relationships with record labels, and the lasting influence he has had on contemporary music. The dialogue also reflects on the personal aspects of Russell's life, including his work ethic and the support he received from friends and collaborators.

Takeaways:

The New York Lower East Side experimental music scene was pivotal in Arthur's career development.

Arthur's connections with figures like Allan Ginsberg were significant.

The Kitchen was a key venue for avant-garde music in New York.

The rise of digital music changed the way Arthur's work was perceived.

Arthur had little interest in traditional touring or live performances.

His music resonated with the cultural fabric of New York City. Arthur Russell performed frequently in small venues, often walking to gigs.

He had a successful working relationship with Geofff Travis from Rough Trade.

Russell's music was not commercially successful during his lifetime.

His influence can be heard in contemporary artists like Frank Ocean and Kanye West.

Arthur Russell meticulously kept artifacts from his life and career.

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.