Basement 5

Photo Credit – Dennis Morris

Basement 5 was formed in 1978 and were an early mix of punk and reggae. An interesting combination comprising Winston Fergus who sang for The Equators and who sang at one of their earliest performances supporting Public Image at the Rainbow on Christmas and Boxing Day 1978. Also in the band on bass was Leo who was one of the barmen at the Roxy Club and who would later join BAD with Mick Jones and then Dreadzone.

On drums was Richard Dudanski of the 101ers, Raincoats and later Public Image. Don Letts, famous DJ from the Roxy Club would replace Winston and then finally he would be replaced by renowned Sex Pistols and Bob Marley photographer among others, Dennis Morris in 1979.

This last lineup would get a record deal with Island and release an album and singles in 1980 that was produced by acclaimed producer Martin Hannett.

Dennis Morris I never wanted to be a rock star,” says Morris, who worked with Bob Marley, Sex Pistols and Public Image Ltd, among others. “For me it was a progression of my art, a natural move. I had created images, band logos and I wanted to create a new sound, a new look – the band wore long johns, ski masks, cycling gloves, whilst lyrically it was based on my youth growing up in inner city London. The Wire



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