Misty In Roots are one of the most influential and revered reggae bands the UK has ever produced. Formed in Southall in the mid‑1970s, they first gained recognition as the backing band for reggae star Nicky Thomas before forging their own powerful, orthodox roots sound—music defined by unity, resistance, and social consciousness.
Celebrated as John Peel’s favourite reggae band, Misty In Roots recorded an unprecedented nine BBC Radio One sessions and released the landmark Live at the Counter Eurovision ’79, widely regarded as one of the greatest live reggae albums of all time. Their work was later honoured in Don Letts’ BBC 6 Music documentary, underlining their enduring cultural importance.
At the height of political and social unrest in late‑1970s Britain, Misty In Roots became a vital force within the Rock Against Racism movement, sharing stages with artists including The Clash, The Specials, Elvis Costello, and Tom Robinson, and helping to bring reggae to a vast and newly multicultural audience.
Now, fifty years on, Misty In Roots remain a formidable live act with a devoted global following. Returning to their home borough of Ealing, celebrating half a century of music that continues to inspire, uplift, and resonate with undiminished power.