Honest Jon’s Records: A World of Sounds

Honest Jon’s Records is a record label and music shop based in London, known for its eclectic and diverse musical offerings. Founded in 1997 by Ed “Honest Jon” Lawrence, the label has become a cornerstone of the global music scene, championing artists from all corners of the world.

Global Sounds, Unbound Genres

Honest Jon’s Records transcends traditional genre boundaries. Their catalog encompasses a wide spectrum of sounds, including:

• Afrobeat: The label has been a champion of the vibrant Afrobeat scene, with artists like Fela Kuti, Tony Allen, and Antibalas gracing their roster.
• World Music: From the hypnotic rhythms of Oumou Sangaré‘s Malian blues to the captivating sounds of Toumani Diabaté‘s kora music, Honest Jon’s showcases the rich musical traditions of various cultures.
• Electronic Music: The label has also embraced electronic music, with artists like DJ Koze, Four Tet, and Pantytec bringing their unique sounds to the table.
• Dub: Honest Jon’s is also a haven for dub music enthusiasts, featuring artists like Mad Professor, Lee “Scratch” Perry, and Scientist.

Notable Releases and Iconic Tracks

Some of Honest Jon’s Records’ most celebrated releases include:

• Fela Kuti – “The Best of Fela Kuti” (1998): A definitive compilation of the legendary Afrobeat pioneer’s music.
• Antibalas – “Who Is This America?” (2005): A powerful and politically charged album that solidified Antibalas’ status as a leading force in contemporary Afrobeat.
• Toumani Diabaté – “Kulanjan” (2006): A groundbreaking album that fused traditional Malian kora music with contemporary influences.
• DJ Koze – “My Way” (2009): A critically acclaimed electronic music album that showcased Koze’s signature blend of deep house, techno, and jazz.

Similar Artists and Friends

Honest Jon’s Records has a close-knit network of artists and labels with similar sensibilities. These include:

• World Circuit Records: Another prominent label dedicated to promoting world music, focusing on artists from Latin America and Africa.
• Strut Records: A label specializing in funk, soul, and psychedelic music, often with a global focus.
• Soundway Records: A London-based label dedicated to rediscovering and reissuing rare and forgotten funk, soul, and Latin music.

Beyond the Music

Honest Jon’s Records is more than just a label. The accompanying record store, known as Honest Jon’s in Shoreditch, London, is a vibrant cultural hub. It’s a space where music lovers can browse through an impressive collection of vinyl and CDs, attend DJ sets and live performances, and immerse themselves in the diverse and exciting world of music.