Both winners, 'Mama Shamsa' and humanitarian group from Italy, work hard to make a big difference in their own communities
"I have been in and out of Dubai since the '90s, so I'm quite familiar with the city. I'm looking forward to playing again for the Soul Heaven crew and the crowd at 360°," he told City Times.
From his first gig in 1977, where he worked with friends under the name Jah Rico, which was changed to Soul II Soul in 1982, he went on to score big hits in the late '80s with Back to Life and Keep on Movin', both of which featured singer Caron Wheeler and have been staples on our retro classics playlist for many years now.
"Keep on Movin' with Soul II Soul is my favourite track of all time," said Jazzie, who has also produced and remixed tracks for The Fine Young Cannibals, Maxi Priest, James Brown, Kym Mazelle, Public Enemy, Johnny Gill, Caron Wheeler, Isaac Hayes, Ziggy Marley, Nas, and Destiny's Child.
In 2008, he received an OBE for his services to music, at which time he told The Telegraph, "I had mixed reactions from peers about accepting the OBE: it seemed a bit like selling out. But I realised it was positive recognition for me, my family and community (he was born to parents of Antiguan descent)."
He didn't seem very impressed with the current state of the music industry, so we asked him what element from the past he would bring back if he could. "Music styles have been pigeonholed into categories in recent years which can be quite limiting. I'd definitely like to bring back a feeling of peace and harmony to the community via my music."
He added that his philosophy of music has always been the same - "a happy face and a thumping bass for a lovin' race."
We'll be sure to catch some of those positive vibes when we head down to 360° this Friday!
In May 2008, Jazzie B was awarded the first Inspiration award at the Ivor Novello Awards, for being "a pioneer" and "the man who gave black British music a soul of its own."
l Jazzie B came on the scene in 1977 working with friends under the name Jah Rico.
l His son Mahlon is a footballer who plays right-back for Millwall FC.
Jazzie B plays 360° Dubai on Friday, April 28. For reservations call 055-5008518 or email: 360@jumeirah.com.
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