It all started for me back in the 1960s when I discovered Olatunji’s ‘Drums of Passion’, got hooked on the flamenco of Carlos Montoya and Sabicas, couldn’t get enough of Antonio Carlos Jobim and Astrud Gilberto, became an avid fan of the latin jazz of Charlie Byrd, Herbie Mann and Stan Getz and preferred the afro-american sound of soul and funk over other forms of pop. I’ve been listening to and collecting world music ever since.

You rarely hear this sort of music on commercial radio. Paul Simon’s ‘Graceland’ was a breakthrough, Santana got a look in, the Gipsy Kings and Buena Vista Social Club managed some air play – but on-the-whole Australian audiences have been deprived of the opportunity to hear and appreciate this rich source of music. Music is an important part of popular culture everywhere in the world, it entertains us, and is an excellent platform for messages on social issues.

I joined 5MBS to help fill the void in mainstream media coverage and provide 5MBS listeners with access to little heard music in Australia.

We have a wonderful additional opportunity in Adelaide. Everyone should attend WOMADelaide at least once. My advice is go more often. I also present the occasional blues program on 5MBS which, given its afro-american origins, is also a form of world music.