August 19th. Ginger Baker's birthdate. Drummer. Born south east London 1939.
From the heady days of Graham Bond in 60's London, international success with Cream to short lived supergroup Blind Faith, and then Baker Gurvitz Army, Ginger Baker's Airforce with the odd side project on the way and now to his near retirement in Africa. Ginger has been controversial, difficult, outspoken and wild. The arguments with Jack Bruce on stage with Cream are legendary. His drumming always uncompromising. His solo's extensive. A true character of rock.
Troubled by addiction in his life he eventually found his spiritual home in South Africa. He became friends with Fela Kuti (bandleader/composer to Africa 70) and recorded with him leading to Fela's recordings being heard by a far wider audience.
And for that above all else we say "happy birthday Ginger!".
Now turn this mother up and hear Fela Kuti and The Africa 70 with Ginger Baker - Live.
