Interview Don Letts
We talk to legendary DJ and film maker Don Letts
Interview: Don Letts
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Don Letts was resident DJ at legendary London punk club The Roxy in the 1970s, when he was famed for introducing a generation of punks to reggae music, and he is also a well-respected film-maker. You can catch Don DJing in Leeds this fortnight, when he calls into the Rock Bar’s Friday nighter Eclectic Avenue. Galaxy FM’s DJ Jacob hosts Eclectic Avenue each week at the new Ibiza-themed nightspot, playing everything from quality hip-hop to house, funk to indie, and plenty more in between.
Was there one particular record or gig that first inspired your love of music?
No, reggae was just always on at home, as my father was a DJ.
How about with film, is there one film or film-maker that inspired you?
The Harder They Come, Mean Streets and Walkabout would have to be right up there along with the films of Powell & Pressburger. Alejandro Jodorowsky’s El Topo is worth a mention too.
You’re credited with bringing together punk and reggae - what do the two genres have in common?
They’re both rebel sounds created by the people, for the people, with a DIY ethic. Reggae was Jamaica’s punk rock!
Did you face resistance from either community for bringing them together?
Bob Marley once gave me grief for aligning myself with the punks. But he soon got hip to the movement and a few months later recorded ‘Punky Reggae Party’.
Who are the most talented musicians you’ve ever worked with?
It was cool to get to write some songs with Mick Jones, but as regards the most talented artist I’ve had the pleasure of working with, well that’d be Damon Albarn - hands down.
Do you see the new digital and download era as a good or bad thing for music?
As with most technology, it’s usually a case of once step forward, two steps back. But that’s not technology’s fault, it’s the people’s. But the shit’ll work itself out.
What can we expect from your DJ set at the Rock Bar in Leeds and have you ever played in Leeds before?
If the truth be told, I can’t remember if I’ve played Leeds before. Regarding my set, well I’ll be doing what The Don does - a history of Jamaican bass culture, with old and new school dub reggae.
Do you still discover new music that excites you?
Absolutely - for me, music’s not a hobby or a job, it’s my livity! Check my show ‘Culture Clash Radio’ on BBC 6 Music for what’s turning me on these days.
12 March, Eclectic Avenue at the Rock Bar, 52 Call Lane, LS1 6DT, 0113 246 8232, 10pm till late, free
Posted on Monday 22nd February 2010
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