Now 78, Legs Diamond says he began DJing in Sheffield in 1973. Born in Jamaica, he moved to the city at 16 and was a dancer and drummer before becoming a selector. His story takes in house parties, blues clubs and generations of people meeting on Sheffield’s dancefloors. “Music is my life,” he says.
His first booking came when a neighbour needed music for a family party after her radiogram stopped working. He bought speakers, built their boxes himself and put together a setup using an amplifier and a second-hand turntable from a shop on London Road. With no car, he carried the equipment and records to the house in two trips.
More than 50 years on, he is still busy playing, adapting his selection to the people in front of him. His musical range extends beyond reggae to soul, Motown and pop, with recent selections including Tom Jones, Bob Marley and the Beatles. “I want them to enjoy themselves and have fun,” he says.
For the celebration, he plans to play vinyl, CDs and digital selections, reflecting the changes he has worked through during his career. “I am going to bring some vinyl, because that’s where I started from,” he says.
The September celebration will see Legs Diamond joined by DJ Sensi, Benji Hype and Steel City Vybz, with Cynthia Brooks hosting the night. Taking place at SADACCA, the Sheffield and District African Caribbean Community Association, the event brings the celebration to a venue rooted in the city’s African Caribbean community. It will recognise a lifetime spent sharing music and bringing people together.
The Crowning of Legs Diamond runs from 10pm until late and is open to over-18s. Tickets are available via Skiddle, directly from the DJs and on the door.
