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One to One: Aleighcia Scott's Reggae Heroes: Benji Webbe

Aleighcia Scott's Reggae Heroes: Benji Webbe

BBC Radio 4 - One to One, Aleighcia Scott's Reggae Heroes: Benji Webbe

Aleighcia Scott explores the story of Reggae in Wales with vocalist Benji Webbe.

Benji Webbe speaks to Aleighcia Scott about his relationship with Reggae, from growing up around the 'blues' house parties in Newport to fusing musical genres in the band Skindred.

Benji Webbe's memories of Reggae began with his parents' record collection and the 'blues' parties his brother held when their Dad was away, when the furniture in the front room was replaced with huge wardrobe speakers and curried goat would be cooking in the kitchen.  After several attempts to forge a career in Reggae, Benji started writing rock songs with a friend in what became the band Dub War, and the blend of heavy metal riffs with Benji's roots in Reggae and dance hall started opening doors.  It's an ethos that's continued with the band Skindred and Benji maintains it's about spreading those same positive messages of peace, love and unity.

Aleighcia and Benji talk about the culture of Reggae in South Wales, and how coachloads of people used to come to Cardiff and Newport to listen to the music and see live bands.  They talk about Benji's relationship with the genre and how it has come full-circle again with the band Skindred, and why when they go further afield some people are surprised to find out there is any Reggae music (and black people) in Wales.

Presenter: Aleighcia Scott
Produced by Toby Field for BBC Audio Bristol

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