3. Here come the pirates… spread the word!

Jamz and Spoony discover the creative methods DJs used to launch UK Garage from the underground and reach people across the country. Ignored by the mainstream and evading the police, DJs took untold risks to spread the sound. Creating cult followings in London, Birmingham, Manchester and more, the illegal airwaves of pirate radio, recorded tape packs and underground raves became the megaphone for the sound. Experiencing chart success during the late 90s, the scene went all the way to the top of the pops in this great British takeover. In this episode, we hear from Matt ‘Jam’ Lamont, Omar Adimora and So Solid Crew’s Oxide and Neutrino.

Archive footage in this episode: Double 99 on Top of the Pops

Artwork image- Ewen Spencer

Presenters: Jamz Supernova and DJ Spoony Producer: Tommy Dixon Written by Tommy Dixon Technical production: Ant Danbury Additional production: Ibz David Thompson, Zayna Shaikh, Dan Jones Editor for BBC Audio: Andy Worrell Commissioner for BBC Music: Will Wilkin A BBC Audio production