Forming Soul II Soul sound system and superstar band, Soul Ii Soul, Jazzi Que when he was still at school, Jazzi Que is one of the foundations of London’s multi-cultural across the genres club culture since the late 80’s,and still rocking the spot as a Resident DJ of the 51st State Festival.
With his weekly Wednesday night show on Colourful.com now in its 12th year, Jazzi Que continues to spread the house music side of the “Funky Dred” sound system and returning to his roots on a Sunday, he launches Quintessential House on Bank Holiday May 4th alongside Roy The Roach and singer, Vanessa Freeman at Folklore in Hoxton.
Here we catch up with him as he talks about the London he loves…
What’s the best thing about London?
Its vibrations and diversity are second to none. Everything and everywhere is super easily accessible with its 24-hour bus and tube service. It boasts 13 professional Football Clubs of which 7 play in the world famous Premier League.
There are beautiful places in London where you don’t even realise that you are in one of the greatest cities in the world.
What’s the worst thing about London?
The Congestion Charge and parking restrictions.
Where do you go to have fun?
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. It’s the greatest football stadium in not only London and the UK but the world. It has fantastic facilities for everyone and of all ages.
Where is the most relaxing place in town?
I ain’t telling you that! lol
Where are your favourite place for eats and drinks in London?
The Brown Eagle Caribbean restaurant in Tottenham. They serve fantastic food with warmth and a smile . Their home-made run punches are irresistible.
Dishoom, Battersea delivers an elegant service of tasty, Indian dishes.
Atesh Croydon, which is a beautiful Lebanese restaurant that lends itself to an intimate dining experience. A great place to have breakfast to start your day or recover from a night out. Their beer is fab - lol :-)
JZs Catering in Penge which is an authentic, family run business that delivers a variety of Jamaican dishes with Michelin service.
If I could change one thing about London…
Its climate Ha Ha :-). Plus the over-priced parking restrictions that are putting a dent into street commerce and nightlife. Ease up on the restrictions bro!
What’s your favourite venue to play at and what makes it so special?
Currently, Night Tales in London Fields. There’s always a great atmosphere on the top floor with an all-season roof terrace and most of all a BAD ASS sound system.
Folklore in Hoxton, with its organic surroundings and decorative themes. It gives you a unique bar/live/club experience which never fails to deliver a great vibe. And a solid sound system to blow you away.
The song that reminds me most of London is…
“London Town” by Light of the World.
I first heard this 1980 monster in records shop 198 in Finsbury Park. I had to grab it! It’s a master narrative of the London experience.
“London’s Calling” by The Clash.
I always wanted to “live by the river” and it’s an amazing production by Guy Steven's RIP. Back in the 70s this would be pumped out on national radio, TOTP and you couldn’t help but hear it. The harmonies grabbed me.
Tell us a London gem that everyone should know about
The Brown Eagel Caribbean restaurant in Tottenham for its fantastic fare served with warmth and a smile.
Waterlow Park in Highgate, which is the most beautiful park in London. This gem has wonderful flower gardens and lakes and is a notable silence from London's capital noise, replaced with the sounds of nature.
One thing everyone should do in London is…
See London from the top of The Shard is a must….the view is amazing.
Ot have a couple of cans and whatever else you may fancy and watch the sunset on Primrose Hill
And remember, always look up to see the beauty of old London... it’s still there.
Jazzi Que (Soul II Soul) launches the new Sunday evening sessions Quintessential House with Roy The Roach and on Bank Holiday Sunday May 5th 2024 and then every 1st Sunday of the month. Joined by Special Guest singer, Vanessa Freeman (Kyoto Jazz Massive, Reel People, Phil Asher (RiP) and Faze Action) and from Chicago, Guest DJ Elbert Phillips, the event takes place from 6pm-11.30 pm at Folklore, 186 Hackney Rd, Shoreditch, E2 7QL