Scenes 7. Andy C on drum and bass culture
Mar 8, 2022
In this captivating discussion, drum and bass legend Andy C, co-founder of RAM Records, reflects on his three-decade journey shaping the genre. He shares how discovering 'Radio Babylon' ignited his passion for breakbeats and recounts the evolution from pirate radio to global stages. Andy discusses the challenges of COVID on the music scene and celebrates the joy of reconnecting with live audiences. He also looks ahead, predicting a bright future for drum and bass and its emerging talent, fueled by a passionate underground following.
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First Obsession Sparked A Career
- Andy C first heard Radio Babylon by Meat Beat Manifesto in a clothes shop and became obsessed with its breakbeats.
- That early curiosity drove him to hunt records, listen to pirate radio, and learn the sounds that shaped his future.
A Single Track Launched A Label
- Andy C describes making 'Valley of the Shadows' with Ant Miles as a turning point that launched RAM Records.
- The record fit the emerging jungle scene and opened doors via record shops and pirate radio shows.
Slow Burn Built A Lasting Scene
- Drum and bass evolved from tiny pirate-driven events to huge, mainstream festivals like the Clapham Common gathering of 37,000.
- That slow growth helped cement an underground foundation which sustained the genre over decades.