Roots Archives Forum

Hey folks,

I've just uploaded another mix on Mixcloud. This one is all about the "Connection tunes" that appeared on the scene in 1981. No talking, just music:

https://www.mixcloud.com/RockersVibrati ... onnection/

Since I wasn't there I'd appreciate any knowledge concerning this topic. For example I'd like to know who's the originator? My guess is Nicodemus with "Bone Connection" but maybe that's wrong. Anyways, hope you like the mix, bless!

In 1982 one of the most popular topics for deejays to chat about was the connections - even though they were recorded already in '81 and the trend lasted to '83. The connection lyrics were based on the famous spiritual »Dem Bones« that in turn was based on Ezekiel 37:14 from the bible.

Toe bone connected to the foot bone
Foot bone connected to the leg bone
Leg bone connected to the knee bone
Extract from »Dem Bones«

Perhaps Nicodemus song »Gunman Connection« is the most known but this wasn't the only one and certainly not the first. According to the Gemini-selector Archie in an interview with Beth Lesser published in Reggae Quarterly, the style was originated by Welton Irie, however Squiddley Ranking had the most connections.

From:
http://reggaelicious.pbworks.com/w/page ... n%20Lyrics

Hey kalcidis, you are truly Mr. Know it all when it comes to DJ business, thanks for the reply!
I knew the "Dem Bones" song was the inspiration and thought it likely that Nicodemus was first since he used those lyrics. I got Welton Irie in the mix with "DJ Connection" but never knew he might have been first. Also I didn't know Squiddley Ranking was connected to this * cough *. Did he record this style or was it pure soundsystem?
Bless!

Thanks, Nilo82. The little thing I know I try to share

I haven't heard any records with Squiddly doing the style but there are some tapes out there of course.