Paul Morley in conversation with Fiona Shepherd

As the founder of Island Records, fabled music producer Chris Blackwell has discovered and worked with some of the most important musicians of the second half of the 20th century - from Steve Winwood to Cat Stevens, Bob Marley to Grace Jones, U2 to Roxy Music, plus countless others. He is also widely credited with having brought reggae music to the world stage.

Chris has written his autobiography, The Islander, with legendary journalist, Paul Morley and in it he takes us back to where it all began: Jamaica - the place where his family once partied with the likes of Noël Coward, Ian Fleming and Errol Flynn and where, as Jamaican local music began to adopt contemporary American trends, Blackwell's burgeoning musical instincts flourished. It was also the birthplace of the now-legendary Island Records, founded by Blackwell in 1959.

Five years later, while living in London selling Jamaican records to Caribbean immigrants, Blackwell came across the vocal talents of teenager Millie Small, who he paired with the song 'My Boy Lollipop'. The producer added a ska beat and released what would be a worldwide hit.

Paul will be joining us to discuss the creation of this fascinating memoir, and the many artists Chris has worked with over the years, as well as unpicking the initiatives, decisions and risks that ultimately brought such success to both Blackwell and his esteemed musical collaborators.

This event will be available to watch for three weeks after the broadcast date of 6th May 2022 to accommodate different time zones (removed after 27th May 2022). This performance is included in the Aye Write 2022 festival pass, so you will not need to purchase this event if you have already purchased a pass.