I can’t say that I knew Kenneth
‘Bass Warrior’ Osborne well, but was shocked and saddened to learn of his
passing after a short illness, and my heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family
and friends. I was introduced to Kenneth a few years ago, as the man who ran
the sound for most of the reggae gigs in Glasgow and beyond. We would always
exchange a few words and I hope he knew how much I appreciated his dedication
and love of the music. He was always humble and unflappable, whether warming up
the session for the likes of Chronnix and Macka B, or laying down dubs PA style
for legends like Little Roy or Johnny Clarke, and playing out in all weathers at
community events like Govan Fair. I must
admit that when I first moved up to Scotland, I was worried that I might not be
able to hear my favourite tunes busting out of a big old sound system ever
again. Growing up in London and spending time in Manchester, it never took that
much effort to listen to reggae, as it was all around, thanks to Daddy Ernie,
David Rodigan, Frontline Radio and many more. Of course, there’s a reggae scene
in every major city in the world, and Glasgow is no exception. But I’m a bit
fussy; I’m not that into dub, love Studio One, like a bit of roots, I’m a
sucker for some soppy lovers rock, only got the stamina for just the right
amount of dancehall, I’m a bit stuck in the eighties but I like to keep up to
date with the new stuff out of Jamaica, and even a bit partial to a sudden
blast of soca and soul. And Kenny had it all in abundance, with great taste and
a natural touch for judging the mood of the crowd and mixing things up to keep
everyone happy and moving. He was one of those DJs who seem to have not only raided
my record collection, playing tunes I forgot I had and the ones that got away,
but also introducing me to new sounds played the way they were meant to be
heard, with mighty basslines trembling through the floor and moving through
your structure and straight to your heart. He made me feel right at home, while
his links and friendships all across Europe and the Caribbean helped put
Scotland on the reggae map. One love, Kenny, you will be sorely missed and the
Scottish reggae scene will never be the same without you.
