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Navigating Identity, Community, and the Transformative Power of Hip-Hop

As we catch up with the remarkable Charlie Dark MBE, prepare to be inspired by tales of creativity, community, and cultural journeys. Charlie takes us through his transformative roles—from the vibrant club scene to the joys of fatherhood with the arrival of his third child, Baby Zen. Our conversation unlocks the power of music and subcultures that shaped us, particularly hip-hop, which offered a refuge and a voice during the turbulent days of the 1980s. Charlie’s encouragement during lockdown was pivotal in my own podcasting journey, and together, we celebrate the personal growth that springs from shared experiences and passions.

Charlie's Selections

Run DUC - Sucker M.C.’s (Krush‐Groove 1)

Fela Kuti - Africa Centre of the World (feat. Roy Ayers)

Roy Ayers Ubiquity – Running Away

Richie Rich - Salsa House

Black Renaissance - Harry Whitaker

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Discover the raw and thrilling energy of 1974 New York through David's eyes. He recounts navigating the city's initial grit and discovering its vibrant opportunities, including an unforgettable Aretha Franklin concert at Radio City Music Hall. As David adjusts to his new surroundings, his connections with industry icons and attendance at a black gospel church in Harlem illustrate the profound influence of music and community on his life.

David's Selections

A Brand New Me - Aretha Franklin

Baby Hang Up the Phone - Carl Graves

Ready For This - Revelation

That's the Way of the World - Earth, Wind & Fire

Face The Music - The Dynamic Superiors

Everybody Loves the Sunshine - Roy Ayers Ubiquity

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Something is electrifying about the click of a camera shutter capturing a moment in time, and no one knows that better than Normski, the man behind the lens in the golden age of UK hip-hop. My conversation with this photographic maestro takes us from chuckles over technology's quirks in podcasting to the profound depths of personal and cultural identity. Laugh along as we transcend technical malfunction, discourse dysfunction, and life's serendipitous hilarity. Then, journey with us into nostalgic memories of family influence on Normski's craft and the dance show that shaped a cultural era.

The art of storytelling through photography is much like composing music; it's about emotion, narrative, and connection to the audience. Normski delves into the arduous yet rewarding odyssey of birthing his book, 'Man with the Golden Shutter,' a visual symphony of hip-hop's raw energy and street art's vivid stories. Experience the tug-of-war of selecting just the right images, the collaborative dance with editors, and the creative crescendo that is a published anthology of one's life's work.

Preserving men's mental health is important. We wanted to ensure we could talk freely and in our own way, leaving an example of how men can express vulnerability without shame. A change of mindset historically unavailable for many of us in our formative years. A step towards remediating the effects of toxic masculinity.

Normski's Choices
Inner City Life - Goldie
Hold No Hostage - Hijack
My Philosophy - Boogie Down Productions
I Know I Got Soul - Eric B & Rakim

Hosts: Mista Pierre
Producer: Mista Pierre

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When the clock strikes midnight on your 39th birthday, it’s not just another year ticked off; it’s a heralding in of a new era, brimming with opportunities just waiting to be seized. And that's precisely the vibe Leenanne Adu brings to this episode of Fortified 45s. Armed with a bucket list dreams and the wisdom gleaned from personal and professional evolution through the years. Her laughter is infectious, her stories, a vibrant tapestry of a life lived with gusto, and her forward-looking mindset is a beacon for anyone at the crossroads of a new decade.

Join us as we lace up for an episode that's as much about pacing the marathon of life as it is about the strength found in numbers. We sprint through the transformative arc from hesitant jogger to proud marathoner, and we see how a good crew can be both your cheerleading squad and your anchor.

Leanne's Chosen Choons

No Limit - 2 Unlimited
No No No Pt2 -   Destiny's Child
21 Seconds - So Solid Crew
Non Stop - Hamilton Soundtrack
Alien Superstar - Beyoncé
 
Hosts: Mista Pierre
Producer: Mista Pierre

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It's February 2024. As I stroll under the rare azure canopy of London,  I'm here to share the enlightening continuation of my dialogue with Cyril Nri.

We dive into a reflective journey through New York's storied streets, muse on the timeless melodies of Stevie Wonder, and consider the art of becoming someone else through the lens of actors. Our conversation is a patchwork of cultural epochs and personal tales,

We bring to light the significance of representation in media, from the polished accents that perplexed the police in my neighbourhood to characters in TV police series that broke the mould. Challenging stereotypes on screen, portraying minority groups with dignity, and embracing the spectrum of human experience is an actor's courageous calling.

So, let's revel in the virtuosity of Oscar Peterson, the individuality of Grace Jones, and the activism of Gil Scott-Heron. Let's honour the diversity of our world and the power of authenticity while invoking the spirit of global citizenship. Cyril and I urge you to chase your dreams, live passionately, and never let the grace of life's symphony go unheard.

Cyril's Songs
Living For The City  -  Stevie Wonder
You  Got Me - The Roots
Mumbles - Oscar Peterson
Johannesburg -  Gil Scott-Heron

Hosts: Mista Pierre
Producer: Mista Pierre

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As the new year unfolds, I invite you to wrap yourself in the comfort of shared stories and profound insights with our guest, the profoundly talented Cyril Nri. His journey through stage, screen, and voice acting reveals the textured layers of an artist's life, embedded with the echoes of an Igbo heritage and the resilience of a culture.

Cyril's voice has breathed life into characters in ways that defy the norm, and his tales extend beyond performance, touching the Biafran war song of his youth and an enlightening narrative that traverses from personal to universal truths.

Venture with us through the pulsating heart of the Black diaspora, where tales of education, ambition, and struggle intertwine with the intricate dance of post-colonization and self-reclamation. The pioneers' journey, including my parents' own path, reveals the courage it takes to break new ground, with music like Nina Simone's anthems guiding the way towards freedom. Delicate threads of mentorship weave through our conversation, highlighting the transformative impact of progressive institutions and the mentors shaping tomorrow's artists and activists.

Join us as we reaffirm the vitality of laughter, the necessity of mental well-being, and the boundless potential of embracing one's passion.

Cyril's Chosen Songs
Nina Simone  -   I wish I knew How It Would Feel To Be Free
Aswad - African Children

Reference Material
C L R James
George Lamming
Sam Selvon
Pan African Congress

Hosts: Mista Pierre
Producer: Mista Pierre

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The Soulful Journey of David Nathan: Legacy and Influence

Join us on a soulful journey as we engage in a heartfelt conversation with the British Ambassador of Soul, Mr. David Nathan, fondly known as Uncle D. 

From the streets of London to the vibrant soul music scene, David Nathan, with his five-decade-long career, he brings a wealth of wisdom to our dialogue. We delve into his fascinating experiences, from witnessing racial discrimination to working in a record store, and discuss the important role of artists like Nina Simone and Earth, Wind & Fire in shaping our musical consciousness.

In this dialogue, we explore the social complexities of the 60s and 70s, the racial dynamics, and the cultural evolution that shaped the music industry. We recall our personal journeys, our self-discovery, and the impact of certain songs and artists on our lives. We reflect on the changing attitudes towards interracial relationships, the emergence of black gay culture in London, and the vibrant disco culture of the 70s. We share stories of our personal connections with music, enlightening you with our nostalgic conversations filled with insightful anecdotes of the era.

We also discuss the deep connection between the soul and soul music, leaving you with a deeper understanding of our relationship with music, culture, and personal identity.

So, tune in, listen to our vibrant conversation, and let us take you on a journey through the soulful lanes of music history, personal memories, and cultural evolution.

Intro Song
Yes We Can Can - The Pointer Sisters

David's Choices
Walk On By  - Dionne Warwick
I Put A Spell On You - Nina Simone
I Have Never Loved a Man (The Way  Love You) - Aretha Franklin
Walking Up a One Way Street - Willie Tee
Armed & Extremely Dangerous - First Choice
Fantasy  - Earth, Wind & Fire

External Links
David Nathan.com

Hosts: Mista Pierre
Producer: Mista Pierre

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Join me,  along with my special guest, Zak Polanski, the Deputy Leader of the Green Party, as we have a heart-to-heart conversation; we unlock the stories behind Zak's surname changes, our shared nightclub experiences, and the intriguing intersections of identity and politics.

But that's not all. We also delve into the pressing issues of climate crisis, equality, and identity. Uncover the ties between green issues, racism, and economic justice, and understand the disproportionate impact of the climate crisis on communities of colour and working-class communities. From discussing the political undertones in rap music to exploring the challenges of owning a space in a society yet to achieve true equality, this conversation promises to be a riveting journey of insight and discovery.

Buckle up for an episode that promises a rollercoaster ride of topics, from understanding the intricacies of your identity to a deep dive into the world of music, theatre, climate crisis and much more. We challenge you to question the status quo, provoke thought, and inspire change. Join me on this exciting journey that promises to be an insightful, entertaining and thought-provoking experience.

Zak's Choice Cuts
Let the Groove Get In  - Justin Timberlake
What's Going On? - Marvin Gaye
Woman - Little Simz
Cruel Intentions -JMSN
If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out - Cat  Stevens

Literature/Books
Pleasure Activism - Adrienne Maree Brown (Author)

Hosts: Mista Pierre
Producer: Mista Pierre

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Pierre is in conversation with one of the most exciting and influential  DJs of the 90s, Martin Green.  Martin founded the club Smashing, the epicentre of the 90's Britpop scene.

Martin is an avid music collector, unearthing a nutritious bounty of lost gems and compiling them on many albums for major and independent record companies, kickstarting the popular lounge revival of the mid-90s. He became features editor of Beige magazine, interviewing various cult figures, artists and actors whose work he admires. In addition, he reviews plays, shows and events for the publication.

As if that isn't enough, he combines these varied occupations, co-curating exhibitions as part of Duovision, producing gallery events and contributing a suitable musical score to the art presented.

Intro Song
I like London in the Rain - Blossom Dearie

Martin's Cuddly Curation
The Black Queens Beads - The Young Lovers
E.V.A  - Jean Jacques Perrey
Black Rite - Mandingo
This is Hardcore - Pulp ( 4Hero Remix)
For What It is Worth - Sergio Mendes
Cherrystones - Eugene McDaniels

Referenced Tracks
Just to Get a Rep - Gangstarr

Hosts: Mista Pierre
Producer: Mista Pierre

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Pierre is joined by the actor Shaun Parkes. They discuss growing up together,  faith,  and his role in the film Human Traffic. All of this is fuelled by a few glasses of champagne. Things get bubbly!!

Intro Song
Chase The Devil - Max Romeo

Shaun's Choices
Dat - Pluto Shervington
Heaven Help Us  All - Stevie Wonder
Dear Mama - 2Pac
Nobody Knows  - Reverend T.L Barrett
Waiting All Night (feat Ella Eyre) -  Rudimental
Change is Gonna Come - Sam Cooke

Hosts: Mista Pierre
Producer: Mista Pierre

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