Bass Warrior

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.