Thom Bell A Jamaican Born Philly Genius

Host Roger Moore alongside Historian Kevin Tomlin discusses the impact that a Jamaican Born producer Thom Bell.

In this episode of The Edge, host Roger Moore sits down with Wizdom from the legendary UK gospel rap group, Green Jade. We delve into the early days of UK urban gospel, exploring Green Jade’s journey as pioneers in a scene that didn’t yet exist.

Wizdom shares incredible stories, from the group’s beginnings as a dance crew called Poetic Justice in 1992 to their transition to Christian hip hop. He discusses how Green Jade navigated a church culture that didn’t understand hip hop music and the challenges they faced as a “bougie group” signed to a record label with a half-a-million-pound deal.

Discover how an encounter with a Christian woman led to a miraculous turn of events that brought 15 of the 25 members to Christ and why they initially refused to be categorized as a “gospel” act. Wizdom reveals the behind-the-scenes struggles, including financial sacrifices, the story behind their hit song “Guns Down” , and the real-world impact of their controversial decision to pull out of the MOBO awards.

This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of UK black music and the legacy of artists who acted as “tunnel rats” to pave the way for today’s generation.