Date(s): 28th May 2009

Venue: Shepherd's Bush Empire, London , W12 8QE

Part of the Island 50 years celebrations sees Baaba Maal and Yusuf Islam playing Shepherds Bush Empire. Also on the bill is Noxshi and the concert will be used to support Amnesty International and The Oracabessa Foundation in Jamaica.

2009 is the 50th anniversary of the founding of Island Records, on of the most prestigious record label in the history of British music. To mark this milestone the label is collaborating with Island founder Chris Blackwell to arrange the Island 50 festival.

Chris Blackwell founded the Island label in Kingston, Jamaica in 1959 with capital of just £1000. Relocating to London in the early 60s Blackwell built the most diverse and enviable back catalogue of any independent record label in history. From Island's early Jamaican roots in ska and rock-steady, through the label's expansion to become the cutting edge of progressive rock in the late 60s, and then on to the signing of such international superstars as Bob Marley and U2, Blackwell brought to Island a unique vision and passion which still informs the label's approach to this day. More from the Island 50 Official Website.

GondwanaSound will be presenting an Island special at the end of August.

Website: Island 50