Celebrating Charles Stepney

The definitive documentary about Charles Stepney was released on Gilles Peterson’s, WorldwideFM on March 26 (Charles Stepney's birthday), 2019. Stepney is a producers’ producer, a key man in the heyday of Chess records and responsible for a phenomenal body of work between the Sixties and Seventies. During that time, he collaborated with – and inspired – everyone from jazz giants Eddie Harris and Ramsey Lewis to Minnie Riperton, The Dells, Marlena Shaw and Earth Wind & Fire. He even helped to resuscitate the careers of Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. It is no exaggeration to say that Stepney revolutionised soul, rhythm & blues with his unique combination of high-tension arrangements and cutting-edge studio techniques. Artists, critics and collectors often mention him in the same breath as Quincy Jones and George Martin. But he remained mostly behind the scenes, little more than an album credit to those outside of the industry. Stepney passed away suddenly at 45 years old. Today, you can hear his influence in everything from the orchestral productions of Adrian Younge (Ghostface Killah, The Delfonics) to the sample-heavy productions of Just Blaze and Kanye West. The internet continues to feed our curiosity for mavericks and unsung heroes, there is no better time to fully acknowledge the brilliance and continued relevance of Charles Stepney. — Producers and hosts, Kam Bhogal and Leanne Wright share a very personal portrait of the man behind the music and also attempt to pinpoint his genius with the help of family, friends and close collaborators. Documentary contributions from: DJ’s and broadcasters, Gilles Peterson and Patrick Forge Musician, Ramsey Lewis Charles Stepney’s daughter, Eibur Stepney Rotary Connection vocalist, Shirley Wahls Cadet Concept records founder, Marshall Chess Earth, Wind & Fire musician, Larry Dunn Producer, Louie Vega (Masters At Work) Producers, Marc Mac and Dego (4hero)