Our People, Our Spirit, Our Stories | Jazzie B
Black History Season Exhibition
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JAZZIE B OBE & SOUL II SOUL | A visionary pioneer whose creativity, resilience and cultural leadership have helped shape British music and inspired generations
“We’re from the days when a number 14 bus and a supermarket trolley got us around,” Jazzie B often recalls when reflecting on his early sound system days. Driven by determination, resourcefulness and a deep love of music, he took his first steps into the sound system world at just 13 years old. Alongside his lifelong friend Daddae, he began with a reggae sound called Jah Rico before evolving their musical vision and creating Soul II Soul.
By the mid-1980s, Soul II Soul had become a distinctive presence on London’s underground scene, combining music, fashion and visual creativity. Their groundbreaking residency at London’s Africa Centre attracted a diverse audience and established the renowned Soul II Soul experience, earning attention far beyond the club circuit.
Today Jazzie B and Soul II Soul remain a formidable force, having achieved chart topping hits and international success with classics including Keep On Moving and Back II Life. and collaborating with renowned artists, captivating audiences worldwide through vibrant and joyful live performances.
The group became a defining force in British culture, winning two Grammy Awards in 1990 and selling over 6.8 million albums worldwide. Jazzie B has contributed to more than 35 million album sales across over 100 territories.
Today, Jazzie continues to run Soul II Soul Recordings, performing with the full Soul II Soul collective live, mentoring emerging talent and remaining active as a DJ, staying true to the sound system culture that first inspired him.
During the summers of 2025 and 2026, Jazzie B partnered with Camden Market where he was once a stallholder, to host the Back II Life Café music sessions. The events brought together locals and visitors through music, featuring guest DJs including David Rodigan and Greg Edwards and celebrating Camden’s vibrant community spirit.
A proud long-term local resident, Jazzie B maintains a deep connection to Camden Market and Camden Town. Camden represents his home, creative roots and the multicultural musical environment that helped shape both his career and the Soul II Soul movement.