Rapattack Sound System

The Notting Hill Carnival RAPATTACK/RED BULL showcase was absolutely fantastic, hugely successful and viewed by all concerned as being amongst one the most successful Carnivals ever. "A thoroughly enjoyable and a memorable occasion that for us will mark the end of the first decade of a new Millennium".

Due to pre-launch arrangements for the forthcoming reality show that is to replace Big Brother on Channel 4, Rapattack were delighted to be approached and selected for official filming duties at Carnival. Those who were present over the 2 days may have been wondering why all the TV cameras were lurking about. The first episode of this new eight-part Notting Hill series entitled 'Seven Days' is to be screened on Wednesday 22 September, 10pm on Channel 4. Cameras will follow around 10 “highly engaging” members of the public in near “real time”, with episodes screened the same week they are filmed. Rapattack is fortunate enough to have one of these "highly engaging" people as a dedicated supporter and we hope that 'Malcolm' goes on to achieve national success. The producers hope that this TV series will have the real-time drama of other big reality TV shows such as Big Brother and I'm A Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here! The series will be shot in the open “real world” with the characters able to read what is being written about them in newspapers and on the web. For more information please follow these links:

This year things kicked off a lot slower on the Sunday than in previous years, due to bubblers being a little cautious in coming out early as rain was forecasted for the afternoon. However, rumours of bad weather proved to be ill-founded and by 2.pm a short but sharp 15 minute shower was the only obstacle that threatened what indeed turned out to be yet another fabulous and glorious day. As usual things went off with a bang and it was all about the link-up with RED BULL (the official Rapattack showcase Carnival Sponsor for the last 3 years).

This year was no different- The sponsors sure did create an impact. Preparations for the event started off the previous day, when the strong-handed mob of support services (essential for any large-scale event) were on hand and hard at work erecting the likes of the sound-system, stages and that wonderful Red Bull Airstream (licensed bar) in all its polished glory (click here to see video).

Harmoniously, both the RAPATTACK, and the RED BULL entourages pulled no punches when it came to the presentation of what evidently has been described as the 'best V.I.P area at Carnival for the last 3 years- decorated flamboyantly in both Rapattack and Red Bull regalia. The enormous branded and stylish parasols, together with matching tables, bean bags, bar-stools and can-shaped fridges have now become a monumental fixture strictly for the occasion. Also, we mustn't forget that really classy (cream leather) Red Bull DJ desk that spruces up the DJ stage. Again it looked utterly magnificent.

Commencement of the distribution of the pallet-load of the various RED BULL drinks, together with another well known beer began around mid-day on the Sunday and those fortunate enough to have VIP area passes were given the full treatment. No doubt as Chaka Khan would say “Ain’t Nobody” was going to get thirsty on what turned out to be not one but 2 gloriously beautiful days. With an endless supply of drinks, things could only get better. The RED BULL team, this year spearheaded by the delectable Miss Gabriella Weekes (from RED BULL's marketing team) were excellent in working extremely hard to create the ultimate partnership in the strive for perfection. "

For Rapattack and RED BULL second best will never ever do".

The back stage shenanigans and arrivals of the odd celebrity contributed to the whole saga and obviously added spectacle, colour, turning heads and bringing true Carnival spirit to the Rapattack stage on both days (Check out the photos).

Both days were absolutely amazing and Carnival 2010 most definitely will be a hard act to follow. But enough about that for now, let’s get right back to business.

The official warm up turned out to be sensational and mind-blowin as the showcase became busier and busier by the second. MC Bronx kicked off by spinning or rather by 'programming' some serious 80's classics from his Apple laptop. Usually, digital media is banned from being played on the Rapattack system, as it is policy for Rapattack DJ’s and guests to operate strictly oldskool style with vinyl recordings. Hence, this message became reinforced as unbeknownst to revellers; the laptop had to be withdrawn almost immediately, as the DJ program it contained experienced a multitude of crashes. “What a shame”, “Thank God” and “Long live vinyl” were but a few of the remarks echoed by senior members of the crew- most of whom have a distinct disliking for the quality and tinny sound that digital media has in comparison with the fuller and warmer sounding vinyl recordings that emanate from the Rapattack 40,000 watt powerhouse. Never-the-less the showcase really kicked off and everybody started jammin when the DJ Master MC took to the decks, touching down a few upfront selections (for example Tini Tempah's "Passout", Rhianna's- "Rudeboy" and Wiley's "Wearing My Rolex") followed by some hard-hitting oldskool garage classics and ending up with some adorable party vibes- the most memorable being Bob Marley's- "Jammin" and Bill Wither's- "Lovely Day". With the usual array of beautiful girls and handsome guys flaunting what this year turned out to be a wide assortment of designer wear, as no particular one brand could be singled out, DJ Ricky came on the wheels (turntables), vibeing up the crowd with some pleasant and touching renditions. Starting off with that such as "Spotlight" from Jennifer Hudson, Ricky then progressed and rocked the crowd severely, playing a cross section of oldskool grooves which again emanated the Rapattack flavour and gave them a taste of what Rapattack is all about. No doubt, DJ Ricky smashed it. He definitely yet again touched the hearts (and souls) of Sunday ravers whose faces shone with delight as loud oohs of appreciation echoed throughout the capacity filled site. He played a serious beat droppin' selection of golden oldies that haven't been heard for ages- from Yvonne Elliman's- “Love Me” to Shalamar's- “Sweeter as the days go by” and lots more!!!!!!!!! including "See me" from Rapattack fanatics no. 1 singer- the great Luther Vandross. As far as the Bank Holiday Monday is concerned check out Ricky's playlist as the variety of great tunes just speak volumes for themselves. Awesome or what? The atmosphere was just terrific and you have to give credit to the quality of DJ’ing considering he was yet again preoccupied throughout the 2 days performing live interviews and other duties that contributed to the Carnival cause. Needless to say didn’t get much sleep.

Bank Holiday Monday saw Rapattacks own Junior J at the helm spinning the wheels for a couple of hours until the official showcase went live. People were just in their element smooching and funkin' down to early afternoon grooves. Gems by Change, Soul II Soul, James Brown, Young Disciples, the Godfather and namesake Joycelyn Brown, En-vogue, Betty Wright etc., etc., etc., were flung down back to back in an uninterupted format- in fact there were far too many good tunes to mention and the crowd were just 'lovin it'.

Rapattack’s female DJ Lady Misstify. When she's around, it's always a pleasure. The support for her was remarkable and people certainly knew what to expect. Hard-hitting and thumping sounds with big beats and phat bass-lines. Wicked. Like the true Rapattack Dj that she is, absolutely rocked the darn place superbly on the Bank Holiday Monday (see her playlist). Her set can be described as bumping and uplifting- a quality house and garage extravaganza that the younger members of the audience clearly seemed to relish (although it must be noted that the older bods appeared to love her equally as much, but in a more reserved way). She had the whole place bubbling and believe you me when I say champagne corks were just poppin' and left, right and centre throughout the entire site. Misstify’s set was again supported by special guest MC DT (photographed below) who together with the host of Rapattack MC’s present played a fundamental part in hyping up the crowd. Unrehearsed freestyle lyrical sessions harmoniously blended with Misstify's earth-shattering b-lines as the MC's generated a true Carnival party atmosphere in expressing themselves and no doubt their humour came across merrily and was well received.

Meanwhile, somewhere and somehow in the VIP enclosure, the UK's own soul/r'n'b singer Rick Clarke managed to sneak in a barrel of some deadly and potent Caribbean Rum Punch which kindly he left on tap, available to all back-stage guests and those who were invited to celebrate his 50^th birthday. Many happy returns Rick.

The Rapattack MC’s present this year included the main men Bronx (in above photo with Misstify) and the deadly veteran MC Dizzi Heights (pictured underneath) who took centre stage and provided a commanding performance of lyrical professionalism while perched above the soundsystem’s huge front of house speakers. This year he managed to drum in a message to the youngsters, reiterating the importance to "continue to upkeep the struggle and fight to keep Carnival on the streets of Ladbroke Grove". It never ceases to amaze us all that he never

runs out of anything to say, although there are times when it is considered that he should shut the **** up. Anyhow, another great MC and top recording artiste to grace the Rapattack stage on Bank Holiday Monday was the 'MC Unknown' a.k.a. 'Kamanchi Sly' from back in the day of the Hijack rap crew, but these days more widely known for chart-topping successes with hits such as 'Da Click's- Good Rhymes'. Oldskool MC's certainly rule and 'Unknown' was no exception, as he graced the stage and lifted the crowd to the highest of highs, seemingly making easy work to the art of engaging them with audience participation while the 'Master' spun the decks in the final party jamdown, which was an especially magical and sexy set.

The highlight of the event must surely be when the audience were totally blown away by an astonishing live Carnival performance from the talented teenager, artiste MX ONE. Regulars to the site would have remembered the wicked unforgettable debut performance, smashing up the stage with his singing and dancing when only 7 years old and also his live performances on subsequent years. ‘Seeing is believing’ and this youngster has developed tenfold, is 100% sensational and has the kind of persona that usually comes with experience and is commonly observed only in professionals. It's just a matter of time before the kid goes major. Daddy (DJ Toyboy VIP from Bristol) must be very proud.

As for the DJ Master MC- He sure does have some energy. Having been on site to organise operations from 9am Saturday morning until 4.am on Sunday preparing the system, he still had enough gas to be boppin' around the site all day long on both Carnival days. Just don’t know how he does it- working ever so hard monitoring and fine tuning the 40 kilowatt soundsystem which I have to say, sounded crisp and magnificent (another Rapattack© ‘trademark’). It was also interesting to see him personally fitting speakers into some massive brand new speaker boxes which until then were just left lying around, unwittingly exploited and becoming structures, to be used as seats and tables by groups of the Bank Holiday Monday's audiences. When finally, it came to the crunch and anticipation of his entrance to the DJ stage reached its peak, he inevitably was let loose on the decks for the grand finale. It was unbelievable. Highly entertaining. Superb, ecstatic and mind-blowing- to say the least. Whistles, foghorns and vocal chords erupted from every angle of the packed solid street and even through the open windows of neighbouring properties, you could see people jamming and rocking while the Master MC tore the house down for 2 hours straight. The delivery of tracks from the likes of Prince, Chaka Kha

n, Chubb Rock, Kool & the Gang, Janet K, Barry White etc., was perfect(see the Master MC's playlist), putting the finishing touches on what turned out to be a great and fully entertaining day.

Not gonna forget Carnival 2010 in a hurry folks!!!!!. The grand finale was brilliant. This definitely is what the doctor ordered and is what people come down to the site for year after year for- to tune in to what Rapattack regulars describe as the DJ Master MC’s ‘musical ecstasy’ or ‘grand groove’. More simply put, this is soul and dance music, organised and delivered with quality and in a format that many have tried to reproduce but have failed miserably to perfect. This style is unique.

Lurking towards the back of the site (in close proximity to the speaker stacks), we spoke to those who expressed their praises and could remember when the Master MC used to control the Rapattack decks exclusively, DJ’ing single-handedly at Carnival from start to finish. In such pioneering days his Carnival sets represented Rapattack at their prime in producing some amazingly revolutionary and memorable sets, with mixes that are commonly talked about by punters and will be remembered by the music industry forever. For many, the Master MC and Rapattack are synonymous. Being an observer of his work and the technical abilities he exerted in ensuring that this particular street party ran like a well oiled machine, I can understand why it is that so many have reached such a conclusion. However, I beg to differ on the synonymous issue, but what is true though, is that Rapattack have a great and dedicated team and fantasic DJ's. The verdict, without a shadow of a doubt, is that the Master MC continues to uphold his reputation as being ‘the great ‘Rapattack DJ’ that everybody describes.

Once the music was over, a multitude of happy onlookers applauded the dj's, sponsors and organisers. The atmosphere was still thriving, with foghorns and whistles continuing on for some time into the night. This was a day of peace, love and unity and like Rapattack always say, 'music must surely be the key'. There were loads of smiling faces. Oh Yes. Oh Yes indeed... and for those that still have yet to taste the flavour- Let me assure you that once you have experienced Rapattack at Carnival- you will be undeniably hooked.

People always seem to forget that for a working soundsystem, the end of a gig is just the beginning of the end for the soundsystem’s crew team members. Carnival 2010 did not differ in this respect. After Carnival is over, the Master MC still yet had to organise and personally assist with the dismantling of the massive soundsystem and stages. Much later at night after the crowds had gone, the 'Rapattack crew' get busy. The soundsystem itself and Red Bull property then has to be collected, loaded onto 4 trucks and delivered back to their respective storage units. Poor Gabriella (Red Bull Marketing). It was her job to oversee collection of Red Bull property, which on this occasion dragged on until 2am in the morning due to unavoidable hiccups in transportation.

The many heavy and precious boxes of vinyl travels in a separate vehicle, closely escorted and guarded like gold bullion (and probably weighing just as much) until they reached their final destination. Unloading of equipment at various locations continues throughout the night and with rental vehicles, props and other materials having to be returned, a tight deadline ensured that the Rapattack crew are well occupied right up until work is completed, which on this occasion was at around 10 am on the Tuesday morning.

The Carnival saga was caught on camera by the one and only Kevi-Kev (the cameraman) who was never too far away from the action. Stressful work I guess (but somebody's got to do it), particularly having to deal with the continual cries of women repeating- "film me, film me", all day long. In the spirit of not coming across as being ignorant, they were not ignored. Poor Kev. There was loads going on and it was proper happening. The champagne and birthday parties in the VIP area, dancers on roller skates, break-dancing, bongos and percussionists on the street, plus the antics of the crowd naturally, left Kevi with more than enough to do.

Our indicators suggested that a minimum of 25,000 people visited the Rapattack site on both days with many more just passing through. There was an over average and unusually high volume of interest from the media this year, with interviews and filming from various TV and radio production companies including BBC London, BBC 1xtra and Channel 4.-

Red Bull- for having faith and the vision in seeking a great opportunity. for their support, dedication and the tremendous amount of effort put into assisting with the management of the sound stage again this year. Supplying and distribution of all the drinks, bar arrangements and other seriously important duties for and on site. A very special thank you goes out to Natasha- you’re a

‘star' babe. But the hero, no heroine of the day(s) has undoubtedly got to be the new addition to Red Bull management team- Miss Gabriella Weekes. These guys sure do both know and do their jobs well. Merci beaucoup.

Malcolm- for the great opportunities presented and for his continual support- not to forget the cases of champagne that he shares out year after year from his regular position situated just in front of the Rapattack performance stages. Wishing you all the best with the Channel 4 TV project sir- Large.

Feel- Publicity and Marketing. Big up Anthony and the Feel crew for services rendered to both Rapattack and the sponsors. Also by ensuring that the VIP guest area was operated to a high standard, 'doin it fluid' whilst catering for the every need of the celebrities and corporate guests. Well done guys- You were great . Also for doing a incredible job by ensuring that things ran extremely smoothly on both days. Peace & love guys-------- and yes "that recommendation sounds brill". Well done and thanks again.

Peppermint- second to none in performing a smooth operating and superbly efficient bar service. Bottoms up and cheers.

SUSD- for again letting us have the run of their design studio and accessing electricity from the fuse box to spark up the Rapattack Mix Machine. -special thanks to the world famous designer Tom Dixon and director Peter Harris whose quote will forever remain with us-

“We didn’t realise how so well organised and professional Rapattack are” (2006)

Big up to all the celebrities who came down and a special shout to the premiership footballers incognito for passing through (yes we did notice the glasses and hoodies that added to the camouflage). Shout out to Tim Westwood (Radio 1 DJ and Pimp my Ride host) who spent yet another Carnival Monday afternoon bubbling back-stage with the crew. Rapattack security said that you asked them to escort you to the toilets and will be sending you an invoice shortly. Shout out to BBC London and the film crew from Channel 4 who were on site for the 2 days, not forgetting the journalists who did the interviews, broadcasted nationally on the day and now can be accessed online. Last but not least, a very special thank you to the residents of All Saints Road and to those of you out there who attended and contributed towards making the days extra special. All the dj’s, live acts and everybody backstage in the VIP enclosure, not forgetting praises to the efficiency of the crew and RPK security. You’ve all done it again.

PS- Special praises to the one and only Junior J who performed above and beyond his duty this year and without whom this year's event would not have run even half as smoothly.

Also to Sam who was again outstanding, proving that he is a valuable asset and much loved by all back stage, on account of hospitality and networking duties.

Also got to say thanks for your ‘after carnival' e-mails. Just keep them coming.

You played an awesome set on Monday. You are still one of the best soul DJ's in this country.

I Angela have been going to carnival now for about 23yrs and every time I'm there I go to rapattack and every year is just gets better. The music is just having it- pumping out from the best sound system around carnival. I would not know where to go if rapattack sound system was not there, so you could call me a rapattack girl and always will be as long as rapattack dj's are there with me. I love the old school thing and what you lot do cos you know when 2 mix them good sounds in. I always tell everybody when going carnival to make sure you and all the family get 2 rapattack or your carnival will not be complete...., take it from a big RAPATTACK lady that has been going 23yrs and come from Essex ,,,,,

I was at carnival and it was wicked. My friends and I had a great time and you lot brought back loads of memories with the blasts from the past. Please can you add me to your mailing list. Top marks guys and keep up the good work.

Hi there,

Can you please forward me a list of available tapes & CDs and cost of posting to Aus. I am desperate to get my hands on some good music, really hoping you have some live carnival sessions available!

Cheers

Joe

Please could you let me know what/where the next event will be held.
I had an excellent time at carnival

I'm really looking forward to hearing Rapattack play out and am very pleased to know that you’re at the BLAG club and I'm not sure how to get to there, but will find out!!

My sister and I were at the Carnival this year and found your spot by accident. The music was good, and just as we were thinking of going elsewhere "Buttercup" came on the system. It was such an unexpected blast from the past, we just started rocking! I looked around and saw that everybody was moving: people were smiling; looking up the sky; looking down at the ground; eyes open; eyes closed; just enjoying the groove - that was such a brilliant moment - I didn't want it to end!

That's when I thought I have to have more. Had to find out where you play so I can get some friends to come with me to check out of your sounds.

Please, please, please can you send me some off your Cd's/DVD's. Originally a Wandsworth Boy, I have been with you from the beginning, going to your dances when I was a 16 and always sought you out at "Carnival". However, I left the UK in 1992 to live in NZ and the music ain't the same.. I still have tapes that I made from the 80's, live dances etc. but the quality is really gone and they are so precious to me now I don't play them. Obviously the internet is a great place to source some CD's but I have had no luck trying to find any of your stuff. No-one does it like you guys. Rapattack is, always was, and always will be, the greatest Soul Sound,PERIOD! Regards A deprived rapattack lover Karim Aliani

I came to All Saints Road on Monday and I had a really great time, particularly the last set. It finished much too early...never mind. I asked one of the crew where do you normally play and he said the Blag Club in London. Can you tell me which nights you are there and any other venues that you play at.

Hi there,

Just like to say how much I enjoyed your soundsystem on the Carnival Monday. I loved all of the tunes you played once I arrived, around 4pmish till 7pm. I just want to know one thing - you played a Cameo track and it was dope. If you can think of what it was, or any Cameo joints you played that day, please mail me.

Again, respect for an enjoyable day

Darren Metcalfe

I am a devoted visitor to the Rapattack sound every year at carnival and have never been lucky enough to have one of your live CD's! Is there any chance you could send me one this year?. I go to your sound at Carnival every year and love it! Massive 80's soul girl! Please let me know how/where I can get your CD's and find out about any future dates and venues you are playing at.

Looking forward to another slamming year!

Regards

Kate Silvain

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Hi Rap Attack

What events have you got plan for the rest for the forth coming months, we need to be there.

Lady Sylvia

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I have been following you guys at Carnival for the last two years (and will never look back at another sound) ha ha.

Can't wait for it to happen again!!

Can I join your mailing list so that I can come to future events etc etc.

Thanks

Creanna

2.   Go Away Little Boy – Marlena Shaw
3.   I Hear Music In The Streets – Unlimited Touch
4.   Keep The Fire Burning – Gwen McRae
5.   To Be Real – Cheryl Lynn
6.   So Different – Kinky Foxx
7.   Catch The Beat – T Ski Valley
8.   I Love Music – O’ Jays
9.   It’s A Love Thing - Whispers

   “Crowd calls for the rewind”
4.   Rock It – Merchant
5.   I Feel Good – James Brown
6.   Car Wash – Rose Royce
7.   I Want you Back – Jackson 5
8.   Do I Do – Stevie Wonder
9.   Behind The Groove – Teena Marie

2.   Saturday Love - Alexander O’Neil & Cherelle
3.   You Can Hide your Love – David Joseph
4.   Running Away – Roy Ayres
5.   Check Out The Groove – Bobby Thurston
6.   Pick Up the Pieces – Average White Band

7. Get Down On It – Kool And The Gang
8. Funkin’ For Jamaica – Tom Browne
9. High Hopes – SOS Band
10. Kiss - Prince

27 YEARS OF MUSICAL EXCELLENCE
The year 2011 marks the 27th anniversary of the Rapattack Roadshow!
Watch out for forthcoming celebrations.

Were you an avid supporter of Rapattack in the eighties, nineties or present day? -------or got something to say!!!!!!.