The UK Garage scene of the late 90s and early 2000s was a cultural phenomenon that captivated a generation. The infectious beats, soulful melodies, and energetic MCs created a unique sound that resonated with the youth of the time. But UK Garage was more than just music; it was a lifestyle and a fashion statement. As UK Garage lovers at WW, we will delve into the sounds of UK Garage, explore the underground music scene, discuss the fashion styles that defined the era, and understand why it was so important to garage lovers.
UK GARAGE AS I KNOW IT
I remember the very first UK garage song “As I know it” I had heard, it was DJ Luck and MC Neat “With a little bit of luck, we can make it through the night” I was 13 it was 1999. The interesting fact is I had never actually heard the song at the time, I had heard it being chanted around school all day that day. So, on my way home I had the lyrics running through my head “Ta na ne, ta na ne, ta na ne, ta na na te boy” repeating it over and over again. This is a standout moment for me, it shows the true infectious nature that garage music possessed.
I actually got to hear the song later that week, alongside Artful Dodgers Rewind Featuring Craig David and Deekline I Don’t Smoke. Those next few weeks in school was explosion after explosion of garage. My uncle who was a Jungalist at the time made me a garage tape. This is where I discovered Sia’s Little Man and Nicole’s Theme (UK Garage Mix).
Garage had become a prominent part of our lives and to all garage lovers. Finding and having the newest tracks was a driving point for more, we would spend carful time recording sets on pirate radio stations. The more underground the better. Our time was spent going to under 18 Raves, having MC battles and freestyling, DJ Clashes and a whole lot of fun with a blend of attitude.
THE SOUND OF UK GARAGE
I read the following on …….
“The rise of UK garage: While DJs like Armand van Helden crafted speed garage hits like his remix of the Sneaker Pimps’ “Spin Spin Sugar,” experimentation with the form by DJs like MJ Cole and Grant Nelson expanded its boundaries in new directions. Altering the beat to a 2/4 signature led to the creation of 2-step, which generated a huge chart hit with the Kelly G remix of Tina Moore’s “Never Gonna Let You Go, while speed garage.”
However, UK Garage, as I know it, was a fusion of various sounds. It incorporated elements of house melodies, jungle MCs, and drum and bass baselines. What started with soulful, light-hearted 2-Step had evolved evolved into tracks like Dizzee Rascal’s “I Luv U,” Oxide and Neutrino’s “Bound 4 the Reload,” and So Solid Crew’s “Oh No.” These darker-toned, bass-heavy tracks resonated with the youth, becoming anthems of the UK Garage scene. Roll Deep, Heartless Crew and Wiley were other big names on the garage scene.
So Solid Crew
A pivotal moment for UK Garage was the emergence of So Solid Crew. Their track “21 Seconds” became an instant hit and reached the pinnacle of its time. I vividly remember first hearing it early one morning, just before flying out to Spain with my family. The song’s catchy chorus, “21 Seconds tut tut tut,” stuck in my mind throughout the holiday. Upon my return, the song had exploded across schools and parties, dominating the summer holiday of 2001! The song is still well respected and loved today.
Interestingly, the name “21 Seconds” was derived from the amount of time each MC had on the track. So Solid Crew had so many members they wanted a track that fitted in everyone giving them each 21 seconds.
DJ EZ
DJ EZ, played a pivotal role in shaping and impacting the UK Garage scene. His skills as a DJ and his unique style truly set him apart, making him one of the most influential figures in the genre.
First and foremost, DJ EZ’s impeccable mixing abilities and technical prowess were unmatched. He mastered the art of blending tracks seamlessly, creating a smooth and energetic flow that kept the dance floor alive. His fast-paced mixing and flawless transitions became his trademark, captivating audiences and adding a new dimension to UK Garage sets.
He played a crucial role in promoting and popularizing UK Garage through his iconic radio shows on stations such as Kiss FM and BBC Radio 1Xtra. These shows provided a platform for both established and up-and-coming artists in the genre to showcase their music, elevating the scene as a whole.
DJ EZ’s influence also extended to the production side of UK Garage. His innovation and willingness to experiment pushed the boundaries of the genre, incorporating elements from various styles such as house and jungle. This fusion added a new dynamic to UK Garage and attracted a broader audience, further solidifying its place in the music landscape.
Furthermore, DJ EZ’s passion for the music and dedication to the scene helped nurture and support emerging talent. He actively championed new artists, providing them with exposure and opportunities to showcase their skills. His support played a vital role in the growth and development of the UK Garage community. Till this day DJ EZ has been some of my favourite UK Garage Nights Out
Underground – Pirate Radio
The world of underground garage music is closely associated with the rebellious spirit of pirate radios. These unauthorized radio stations have played a significant role in promoting and broadcasting underground garage music to avid listeners.
Pirate radios, known for their operation outside the traditional broadcasting regulations. These renegade stations have provided a platform for emerging artists, DJs, and music enthusiasts to share their passion for underground garage music with a wider audience.
With their distinctive energy and raw sound, pirate radios have become a cornerstone of the underground garage music scene. They amplify the diverse range of subgenres, such as UK garage, speed garage, 2-step, and bassline. Listeners tune in to discover new tracks and experience the thrill of the underground.
Despite operating outside the legal framework, they provided an alternative to mainstream media, offering an authentic and uncensored voice for artists and fans alike.
THE STYLE OF UK GARAGE – THE MILLENIALS
So what did those UK Garage Millennials wear? The UK Garage scene not only influenced the music industry but also left a lasting impact on fashion. The subcultures that emerged during this time showcased fascinating styles that spread across different towns, even without the engagement of social media. From Birmingham to North London, there was a shared fashion sense among UK Garage fans.
But for UK Garage, the music the style was infectious and how it spread over the south of England is what makes UK garage so special and important to those that will always love it.
Below are some of the trends that were spread through UK Garage fans in the late 90s early 00s
SPORTSWEAR
One prominent trend was the incorporation of sportswear into everyday outfits. Tracksuits, trainers, and sweatbands became staples of the UK Garage fashion scene.
FOLDED BANDANA
Additionally, folded bandanas, inspired by the likes of Tupac Shakur, added an edgy flair to the ensemble.
DESIGNER LABELS LIKE MOSCHINO AND BURBERRY
Designer labels such as Moschino and Burberry also gained popularity within the UK Garage community, reflecting a desire for a more luxurious and stylish look.
AVIREX JACKETS
Avirex jackets, with their bold and iconic designs, were another fashion item that dominated the UK Garage scene. Their popularity was fueled by the association with the American hip-hop culture and the desire to emulate the style of artists from across the pond.
ALL OVER PRINT
Another notable trend was the rise of all-over print clothing. T-shirts, hoodies, and even trousers adorned with vibrant patterns and graphics became a common sight at UK Garage events. This bold fashion choice allowed individuals to express their creativity and stand out from the crowd.
GELLED CURLS
Hairstyles also played a significant role in the UK Garage fashion scene. Gelled curls, reminiscent of the 90s R&B era, were popular among both male and female fashion enthusiasts.
GRANDAD HATS
Grandad hats, with their vintage charm, added a touch of nostalgia to the overall look.
The Importance of UK Garage Fashion
The fashion choices made by UK Garage millennials were more than just a way to dress; they were a form of self-expression and identity. The style became a visual representation of the music they loved and the culture they embraced. UK Garage fashion allowed individuals to feel a sense of belonging and connection to a larger community.
Moreover, the fashion choices made by UK Garage enthusiasts were a rebellion against the mainstream pop culture that dominated the music and fashion industry at the time. While American artists were heavily promoted, the UK Garage scene created its own unique style that resonated with the youth. It was a way to reclaim their identity and showcase their individuality.
The influence of UK Garage fashion extended beyond the music scene. It paved the way for future fashion trends and subcultures, shaping the way we dress and express ourselves today. The fusion of sportswear, designer labels, and bold prints introduced a new dimension to street style, inspiring future generations to experiment with their fashion choices.
Going D-e-Eeper D-e-Eeper
UK Garage indeed held significant meaning for black youths during the millennium. It provided them with a sense of identity and belonging in a society that often marginalized their experiences. The UK Garage culture became a space where they felt included and celebrated, embracing their own unique style and perspectives.
In the late 90s and early 2000s, black youths faced numerous challenges when it came to finding acceptance and representation in mainstream society. The music industry primarily focused on American genres, and there was a lack of recognition for the homegrown talent and creativity of UK artists. UK Garage emerged as a powerful force that allowed black youths to break free from societal norms and express themselves through music, fashion, and a distinct lifestyle.
Through UK Garage, youths found a platform to celebrate their cultural heritage and showcase their talents. It became a vibrant scene where artists, MCs, DJs, and producers shared their stories, experiences, and aspirations. The music provided a soundtrack that resonated with the struggles, triumphs, and everyday lives of the youth, offering a sense of validation and representation.
The fashion associated with UK Garage also played an essential role in establishing a sense of identity. The unique style of clothing, bold prints, sportswear, and accessories allowed individuals to express their creativity and individuality. It became a form of self-expression and rebellion against the mainstream fashion industry, which often ignored their cultural aesthetics.
Moreover, the UK Garage scene fostered a strong sense of community and solidarity. It provided spaces for socializing, and collaborating. The underground nature of the scene, including pirate radio stations and intimate venues, created a safe haven where adolescences could freely express themselves without judgment.
The impact of UK Garage on black youths extended beyond music and fashion. It empowered them to embrace their heritage, challenge stereotypes, and navigate their place in society with confidence. The culture became a source of pride and inspiration, influencing subsequent generations and leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry and beyond.
Overall, UK Garage gave a platform to celebrate their identity, fostered a sense of belonging, and allowed them to unapologetically be themselves within a culture that embraced and affirmed their experiences.