At first glance Norwich Cathedral might seem an odd choice of venue for an evening with a man renowned as a club DJ, as well as a broadcaster, producer, and promoter.
But as Peterson says towards the end of this two-hour exploration of his career at part of the Norfolk and Norwich Festival, for him – and many others – music “is church”; it’s a devotion.
Peterson is certainly alive with its spirit, and has an infectious glee when he talks about his encounters with musicians and performers from across the world, and every conceivable genre. His knowledge is eclectic and encyclopaedic, and even if you don’t catch every reference his passion carries you through.
From his early days sneaking out of his parents’ house to pay illicit sets at a local bar, his love of music grew exponentially.
We are treated to anecdotes of his time travelling to Norfolk’s own Caister-on-Sea for its legendary soul weekenders, experiencing for the first time big name DJs like Chris Hill and Bob Jones; his pirate radio career, lugging up aerials to highpoints around London to get the signal out; and his cheeky tactic of organising coach trips to club nights on the proviso that he got rewarded for the 50 attendees with a set of his own.
He is accompanied by long-term friend and collaborator Rob Gallagher, reciting poems including over the top of the many tracks that Peterson plays. The music on the turntables ranges from Sarah Vaughan singing a poem by Pope John Paul II, to Gary Numan’s electronica, and his nearly-signing Cleo Soul. We are even treated to a world record: a short snippet from Marshall Allen debut’s album, released at the ripe old age of 100 years and 265 days.
Each record sleeve is placed reverentially in front of his turntables as they are played. These are the artifacts of his faith, treated with respect and admiration. It’s easy to see why Peterson is venerated as a DJ, regarded as a high priest of his trade. Amen to that.
- The Norfolk and Norwich Festival continues until 25 May 2025.
