South London born and bred, working class London Irish family. Being around in the late 70's and schooling in the 80's, due to an IRA bombing campaign on the British mainland, us London Irish found at times, more common ground with other immigrant cultures, predominantly the West Indians and probably more so Jamaicans. A a result of this interaction i was exposed to reggae music and am thankful that i was. I really believe there is an honesty and earnestness that doesn't exist in other music genres, the rebellious nature of the artists is not dissimilar as to what the irish artists sang about due to occupation etc. There is also a rugged sound which still to this day provokes humility, humbleness, good manners and at times a warrior mindset. The lyrics, often simple and well delivered mixed with the rhythm make a heady cultural and conscious sound which is loved and adored globally.