Keith Brown - Business Partner, Chair Wheeler Street Young Entertainers and Entrepreneurs in Action and Area Catering Manager -

"My name is Keith Brown, and I am one of Grantley Haynes's best friends. I’ve had the distinct pleasure of knowing Grantley Haynes for over 45 years and can say without hesitation that he embodies the qualities of a loyal friend and exceptional individual. Grantley’s unwavering integrity, thoughtfulness and infectious enthusiasm make him a joy to be around and someone you can always count on. Grantley attended Lea Mason Secondary School, and I attended St Albans C of E Secondary School. Then, we had the Highgate Park situation between the two schools. My first memory of Grantley was whilst playing in Highgate Park I would see him cut across the park from time to time, and he knew some of the friends I was out playing with. I was also aware that he was the boyfriend of one of my school friends, a sister who attended my school. Even though we did not speak, based on the small geographic district, I knew his face and no doubt he knew mine based on our neutral acquaintances and our attending the same social spaces in the area. I recall Grantley having a disco set GT 600, played at a community centre just off Edward Road, Balsall Heath, and the Earl Grey pub in the same district. What was unique for me was Grantley. He was the first black man I knew who had such a neat, tidy-looking disco set like this. I’m sure he also had disco lights and played some softer music, which at the time was strictly reggae. When I left school in the summer of 1979, my first job was working for Trust House Forte Group, which led to my going to Garretts Green Catering College (one-day release per week). Towards the end of my 4-year course, Grantley started to attend the same college I’m sure he said he returned to complete his catering certificates as he had stopped doing to attend work the first time around. These days, I used to catch the number 17 bus into the city centre, and if Grantley saw me at the bus stop, he would give me a lift to the Highgate area in his van. Somehow, we hired Grantley and his van to move our local, small sound system, Celestial City Hi-Fi. I went to a gig with Pato and his band, and I remember Grantley doing everything, including driving the van. I offered to help support him and take the van away from him. Grantley accepted, which was the beginning of our long-standing friendship and professional relationship. It was Grantley who encouraged me and gave excellent advice to go into adult further education, pursue the NEBS Supervisor course and gain a supervisory qualification (I’m sure Grantley had already done these certificates) to progress out the kitchen and into catering management and, significantly progress up the management ladder and earn more money. This led me to complete a 3-year HNC Catering Course and attain the necessary qualifications at the College of Food to enable me to move into catering management. After driving the van, I assumed the position of road manager for the artists Grantley worked with. We shared an ambition of making it big in the music industry, attaining financial success, and turning our passion into a full-time career with the ultimate goal of leaving behind the constraints of a regular nine-to-five job. Over the forthcoming years working with Grantley, he has given me the grateful opportunity (which at the time lots of individuals would seek after) to share numerous enjoyable adventures and, more importantly, as a valued friend in the UK reggae music industry, which with gratitude has also personally taken me to USA, Africa & Europe. I gained various people skills, business acumen, and valuable knowledge from working with them, which has contributed to my being the person I am today. Opposite to me, Grantley is outgoing, has a presence about him, is comfortable in any given setting, and can enter and light up any room or space. Grantley has an incredible ability to make those around him feel valued and appreciated. He listens intently, offers counsel, and never fails to bring a positive outlook, even in the most challenging situations. His empathy and kindness have touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. Our journey together through the reggae scene has been filled with unforgettable moments, from late-night studio sessions to iconic performances. Still, I concentrate on Grantley’s unwavering strength of character, which stands out most. Upon reflection, even I questioned Grantley’s foresight and vision at the time, but now they have undeniably been proven to be critical works of greatness and have stood the test of time. I am honoured to call Grantley my friend, and I am grateful for the opportunities and countless ways he has enriched my life. His enterprising spirit is driven by his deep understanding of the music industry and commitment to creating positive change. Throughout the years I have known him, Grantley has demonstrated a remarkable eye for an opportunity to develop innovative business ventures that, in some cases, still thrive today. These ventures offer opportunities and more fundamental life skills for me. I am compounded by his undeniable love and dedication for his two sons. Grantley is an incredible father. He is always there for them, offering guidance and support or being a constant source of love and laughter. Grantley is a devoted, loving father to his children. His dedication extends beyond his sons. Grantley is equally committed to his grandchildren, sisters, and mother, always showing up with the same level of care, respect, and love. He’s the kind of man who puts his family first, no matter what, and that speaks volumes of his loving, reliable character, which is truly inspiring. Standing by Grantley as his best man for his wedding was both an honour and a privilege, one that reflects the deep bond we’ve built over the years of friendship and shared adventures in life. Grantley is not just a remarkable individual; he’s my dependable, loving brother in every sense of the word, someone whose loyalty, kindness, and integrity have made a profound positive impact on my life. Knowing Grantley’s commitment to his projects, and naturally, I’m experienced or know of most experiences Grantley is about to tell, I am genuinely looking forward to this completed body of work. In my opinion, Grantley has consistently underplayed and underestimated his contribution to the UK reggae industry. Grantley’s passion for the subject is evident, and I can say with confidence in his book that he will capture the essence of a vibrant and influential music scene when at its peak. Grantley has lived and breathed the very stories he will so eloquently captures, offering readers an insider’s perspective that is as authentic at it is insightful. His story will educate and immerse the reader in the unique riddims and stories of reggae in the UK. For me, he’s just Grantley, or “G,” as I like to call him, and consequently, despite his well-earned celebrity status, I treat him as such. I’m so pleased Grantley is taking this opportunity to record his valued version of his significant role in the UK reggae industry. Grantley is a person of immense musical talent and dedication. He approaches every task with an elevated level of commitment and passion that is truly inspiring. His work ethic and cheerful outlook make him a standout in any endeavour he undertakes. We still work on various projects together, including my favourite Wheeler Street Young Entertainers and Entrepreneurs, which we enjoy, get me away from work, and contribute to my personal well-being. Long may these business opportunities continue. I could not ask for a better person to have by my side through life’s journey.” - <strong>Pato Banton – Minister, Author, International Musical Artist and MC</strong> “I have known GT since I was 16 years old. He was not like the other youths in my community. He was friendly but mostly thoughtful, disciplined and focused. It didn’t take me long to realise that he was an intellectual with a solid vision to achieve big things in every avenue of life. Our shared love of music eventually united us as friends, and GT was always willing to offer a helping hand to anyone he thought worthy. He taught me not to waste too much time on “time wasters”, to “think about the future”, to “try and save something for a rainy day”, and to “never stop learning!” He also helped me learn how to drive, set up a bank account and many other lessons relevant to my practical progress in life. It was after a major concert in London hosted by David Rodigan when I was a new artist performing with many leading reggae acts, where GT strategically helped to “steal the show” when I was called back to do another song at the end of the night. I had to decide quickly on which song to perform, and GT told me to perform a song I had just written called “Allo Tosh Gotta Toshiba?” I was approached by two management companies and three labels who wanted to sign me immediately! On the drive home, I asked GT what I should do, and he said, “I’ll manage you.” I laughed so hard at first, but when I realised, he was serious about taking responsibility for my career, I agreed, and together, we made history. I could go on and on and on, but I will say that GT helped Tippa Irie and me establish our names and tour around the world. He negotiated significant record deals for me and helped produce my most successful album (Never Give In). He deserves the title “Manager, Brother & Friend” because he was always concerned about my life, not just “the business.” I don’t know a lot, but I do know that whatever GT puts his mind to, he succeeds. One Love Always” - Tippa Irie – Author, International Musical Artist and MC “Well, what can I say about Grantley Haynes? Grantley is a very hard-working, ambitious, and great manager. He has been a friend of mine for over 30 years. GT knows how to take care of and appreciate his clients. He's very reliable, trusting, hard-working, and thorough in everything he does about his clients. GT knows how to get the best out of his clients by pushing them, encouraging them & appreciating their opinions. Grantley is an excellent negotiator & I rate him highly. 10/10. When it comes to strategies & creativity, I also have a 10/10. He is ice-cool when operating under pressure and very good at handling situations when most people are flustered. Grantley is excellent at dealing with the matter. On many occasions, Grantley has gone above and beyond his duties & delivered beyond all expectations. I highly recommend GT, as he is excellent at what he does. Much Respect!”