I spoke with Winston Holness aka Niney The Observer just after today’s inauguration ceremonies ended. (Niney was in London and I in California, but we were both aware of what was taking place in D.C..) We got on the topic of today’s youth and generations to come, when Niney compared the positive attitude and message that Obama brings to U.S. government with the attitude and vibe that today’s music should have. He said music changes the world, so it should be positive.

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Those who know reggae’s history, know that Niney the Observer is deeply rooted in the evolution of its sound. Niney came up from the streets with a rebel sound and attitude at a time when recording studios were accessible to the people for the 1st time. (Similar to independent labels sprouting up to reduce dependency on the majors…) Niney launched the Observer label in 1971 with “Blood and Fire” which in turn influenced the music of Big Youth, Burning Spear, The Wailers and more. (I credit Niney for the change in The Wailers’ sound when it became more militant, rebellious and dark – my favorite era of Wailers music.) Niney has worked with many of reggae’s most recognizable names like Lee Perry, Dennis Brown, Beenie Man and Freddie McGregor (father of Steven di Genius McGregor who’s killing it in dancehall today).

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