CHAMPION DOUG VEITCH

The undisputed King of Caledonian Cajun Swing, the 80's pioneer who almost single-handedly invented the idea of World Music crossover by fusing a whole variety of styles – Cajun, Swing, Reggae, Ska, AfroBeat - long before it became fashionable. In the summer of 1982 Champion Doug Veitch walked into Ariwa Sounds Studio – home of the legendary reggae producer Mad Professor - a meeting of minds that led to six NME “Singles of the Week”, a record he holds to this day. It was Doug who introduced The Bhundu Boys to the late Radio 1 DJ John Peel, a seminal moment in music history leading to them becoming one John's favourite artists. With his nine piece band, Doug was highly sought after, and did radio sessions with John Peel, Andy Kershaw and Charlie Gillett. He played gigs at all the major London venues of the time such as The Wag Club, The Fridge, Mean Fiddler, Gaz's Rocking Blues and the ICA, in front of masses of adoring fans and chattering media. After this, Doug's career saw him take an entirely different direction until a chance Facebook encounter with Pete Lawrence stirred thoughts of a comeback whilst rock monsters Led Zeppellin played their reunion concert at the O2, 1980's mavericks have more class. After a hiatus of some 30 years, Champion Doug Veitch returned to his old stomping ground and chose to play his reunion gig at the legendary 100 Club in Soho, attracting a packed crowd of the great and good. With an 10-piece band featuring some of the original line-up and host of other music luminaries, this was a triumphant and joyous return, signalling the start of an exciting new era for this much respected and appreciated musician