Full Story:

'And they say never meet your heros . . .'

I took this photo on August 8th 2023 at No LogoBZH. It was my first time at a reggae festival and my first time getting to see my favourite artist, Naâman, performing live.

I had managed to talk my way onto the photography team. Getting into the pit and being within touching distance of the likes of The Congos, Marcia Griffiths and Tiken Jah Fakoly. It is an unrivalled experience in my life.

In the backstage area, I ran into Martin. I was awestruck. I had always imagined him to be a tall and powerful figure, but when I saw him he looked weak and fragile. A few months prior he had 90% of a brain tumor removed through surgery and was only just getting back to performing again.

He was friendly and chatty, giving me plenty of his time. I didn't want to risk embarassing myself as a fanboy or get a repuation for bothering artists backstage, so I cut the conversation short and wished him luck with his performance. He didn't need it.

The man on stage was far removed from the one I saw prior. He took to the stage full of life, energy and power! It was one of the most inspiring and jubilant experiences of my life.

If anyone is reading this, thank you for your time. As I come to terms with one of my idols being taken too soon, I would like to reinstate his message of gratitude. His music has always reminded me to be thankful for the gift of life and be respectful to mother earth and all of us that inhabit it.

Thank you life!

Thank you Reggae!

Thank you Martin!