Make Smoking History is pleased to have Daddy Ernie supporting the campaign.
The first chance to see Daddy Ernie is on Saturday 6th September at the Hive Event and then look out for him at other Make Smoking History events over the next 6 months.
Daddy Ernie, a radio personality/DJ, presents the Super Jam reggae show 9pm - 11pm, Mondays & Tuedays.
Born in London of Jamaican parents, his father was a renowned sound system operator within the Caribbean community, so music was very much a staple diet within his household. His first start at DJ-ing came when he bought an old gramophone from a jumble sale.
As the teen years began it wasn’t long before he was getting together with his brother and some close friends to establish a sound system called ‘President Downbeat’. This was Daddy Ernie’s apprenticeship because as well as the kudos of being part of a sound system, this gave him a huge and invaluable insight into what it took to be a top operator and ‘selector’.
Daddy Ernie was a disciple of the King Trojan sound system which had a strong association with the all powerful Trojan Record company, the leading reggae label in the UK at the time. His infatuation with the latest imports from Jamaica was born and nurtured under Trojan’s careful eye. This was the highest of standards and he has never allowed himself to slacken and he has consequently, never looked back since!
After a long and enjoyable apprenticeship, Hawkeye Records was the place where everything really came together. The store opened in Harlesden, North West London in the early 80’s and was at the forefront of all that was reggae during that decade.
Hawkeye International Sound System was born not long afterwards. It was obvious to all that Daddy Ernie would be at the centre of what was to become a national phenomenon. The rest as they say is history!
Daddy Ernie was soon to be found on the seminal reggae radio station, LWR. LWR was widely regarded as the UK’s first Black music station and gave many DJ’s their first break in radio. The undoubted heavyweight and star of this stable was Daddy Ernie. A man who has never forgotten his roots, despite all the national accolades, awards and recognition.
After a short stint with Time FM, he hit the big time with the first five days a week reggae programme outside of Jamaica in the world. Superjam was born on Choice FM radio at the beginning of the ‘90s, from President Down Beat to the mainstream with Choice FM!
Daddy Ernie’s interviews of the top reggae stars and the up and coming talent have achieved cult status with his huge fan base. As Superjam approaches its 16th anniversary it shows no signs of relinquishing its #1 spot in the UK!
