Episodes
| Title | First Broadcast | Repeated | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dennis Brown, The Crown Prince Of Reggae | 20190706 | 20200404 (R2) 20200711 (R2) 20211009 (R2) | Actor David Harewood celebrates the music and legacy of the Crown Prince of reggae, Dennis Brown. On July 1st 1999, the Crown Prince of reggae Dennis Brown died of heart failure. On the 20th anniversary of his death - a date which coincides with 'International Reggae Day', a day which globally celebrates the music of reggae. We remember his contribution to the genre. Dennis Brown wasn't just another reggae artist, he was nicknamed the Crown Prince of reggae by Bob Marley, who said he was his favourite singer. In his hometown of Kingston in Jamaica, Dennis was even more popular than Bob Marley. Mainly because he started recording his first songs at just 11 years of age. In a 30-year career, Dennis recorded over 70 albums. During the late 1970s, he enjoyed international success with 'Money in My Pocket' and much of his work is now considered classic material. His fan base and influence include artists like Ali Campbell (UB40), Wyclef Jean (The Fugees), Shaggy, Sylvia Tella, Barrington Levy, Maxi Priest and many more. He also mentored and produced the artist Junior Delgado. But, like many of his contemporaries, Dennis suffered a lot of personal tragedy, with substance abuse and many health problems. Since his death, he was posthumously awarded an Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government. And, the Dennis Emanuel Brown Trust was set up to help alleviate poverty by creating educational opportunities. From family and friends to ex-bandmates and celebrity fans. The programme celebrates his music, influence and legacy. David Harewood celebrates the music legacy of the Crown Prince of reggae, Dennis Brown. A collection of programmes celebrating the iconic artists and sounds of reggae |
| Gregory Isaacs, The Godfather Of Reggae | 20171025 | 20180919 (R2) 20200718 (R2) 20211009 (R2) | Reggae singer Gregory Isaacs, best known for his hit single Night Nurse, was given the nickname 'The Cool Ruler' due to his relaxed delivery and laid-back stage presence. This programme is a celebration of his music and a candid look at his personal life. In his 40-year career he released hundreds of albums, and although he died of lung cancer in 2010, he battled for years with drug abuse. This had a major impact on his voice. But all who knew Gregory loved him and his music. Gregory had a big heart, he loved children, had a great sense of humour and was a man of the people. The late great Radio 1 presenter John Peel was a big fan and artists like Maxi Priest, Jazzie B, Mick Hucknall, The Rolling Stones and UB40 were some of his biggest fans. Although Gregory didn't reach the heady heights of popularity like fellow artist Bob Marley, he did get nominated for four Grammy Awards. And, his legacy within the reggae community is probably as influential as many of his contemporaries. In 2016 the Jamaican government posthumously awarded Gregory the Order Of Distinction (Officer Class) in recognition of his contribution to the country's music. Since his death the Gregory Isaacs Foundation was also set up to support local charities in the UK and Jamaica. The programme features a cast full of contributors, from family, friends to ex-band mates and celebrity fans. Adrian Lester presents a profile of reggae singer Gregory Isaacs. A collection of programmes celebrating the iconic artists and sounds of reggae |