Edinburgh Festival - Dennis Alcapone/Nicky Thomas/Pioneers

The Edinburgh Festival - OGWT - 1973 - BBC

You put the Cimarons, Winston Groovy, Dennis Alcapone, The Marvels, Nicky Thomas and The Pioneers all on one show and you are going to end up with a great show.

Reggae was at a crossroads when this was shown. For many the paths were clear 'The Harder They Come' was one - and the 'Catch A Fire' album from The Wailers was another. 

Both these options were expensive options -

And despite the success of both of them in commercial and artistic terms - you just knew it was not going to be a regular thing.

Another option was TV. Radio was a no go area for Reggae music - it just wasn't played.

So when the BBC annouced this show that was going to be happening at the Edinburgh Festival - people took notice.

The Edinburgh Festival is a big deal. Now it's better known as a showcase for alternative comedians - but then all the arts were a big part of it. 

The other side of this - was the massive popularity of all concerned.

The Cimarons had the talent to be a major band back then.

Winston Groovy was so popular - he was top of the bill at shows that involved the Wailers.

The Marvels were a good Representative of pop-reggae.

While the Pioneers were trying to shake off their reggae image in favour of soul. While at the same time they were still making great reggae records. 'Destiny' is a great example.

Then you have Nicky Thomas what a great singer the man was - full of passion. His powerful voice made great songs even better.

'Living In The Love Of The Common People' was a massive hit for him, and he does a great rendition of it here.

Then we have the star of the show Dennis Alcapone. Someone knew then just how important deejaying was. U.Roy and Dennis had invented something new. Dennis in fine style shows why he was so popular. A great performance. From an incredible performer.