In the first episode of JOE’s new series Record That Changed My Life, reggae legend David Rodigan MBE breaks down what makes Catch A Fire by The Wailers so special.
Released in 1973, Catch A Fire was the first album The Wailers (Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer) released on Island Records. Featured on Rolling Stone’s ‘500 Greatest Albums of All Time’ list, it’s often regarded as one of reggae’s finest albums and was the global introduction of Bob Marley and his game-changing music.
David Rodigan is the revered DJ and radio broadcaster who cut his teeth hosting radio shows on Radio London and Capital 95.8 before becoming a household name with shows on both Kiss and BBC Radio 1Xtra. A festival favorite and sound clash champion, his unwavering dedication to reggae and unparalleled knowledge of the culture is why he’s the one of Britain’s most cherished musical exports, and why he was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2012.
Discussing why Catch A Fire changed his life, David Rodigan highlights the album’s creative artwork, explains that until its release reggae was frowned upon and looked at as “skinhead music”, and he also remembers discussing the album with Bob Marley and how nervous he was interviewing the musical icon.
David Rodigan
“I actually couldn’t cue up the records the night I interviewed him on Capital Radio, it was live. I literally couldn’t cue up the records, I was a nervous wreck.”
Described as “the book that every reggae fan should read” David Rodigan’s My Life In Reggae is out now and can be purchased here.
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