Episode 125: Celebrating Stranger Cole with Queen P, Darren Reggae, Mohair Slim & Chuck Wren

Episode 125: Celebrating Stranger Cole with Queen P, Darren Reggae, Mohair Slim & Chuck Wren

Author: Junor Francis and Eric Kohler June 21, 2026 Duration: 1:50:21

On this special Celebrating Stranger Cole episode, host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler are joined by: singer, songwriter Persephone "Queen P" Laird; DJ, promoter, record collector Darren Reggae; Australian DJ, promoter, musician, documentarian Mohair Slim; and record label operator, DJ, promoter Chuck Wren.

Stranger Cole passed away on June 11, 2026 at the age of 86. His musical contributions spanned the birth of ska, rise of rocksteady, global expansion of reggae, and current resurgence of ska. His timeless songs, joyful spirit, infectious energy, and enormous influence will continue to resonate for generations to come.


There’s a particular rhythm and energy to the Southern California ska, rocksteady, and vintage reggae scene that has shaped generations. History of L.A. Ska: One On One Sessions gets into the heart of that culture, not just by playing the music, but by sitting down with the people who made it happen. Hosted by Junor Francis, a veteran voice who has lived this world as a radio DJ, emcee, and promoter, each conversation feels less like an interview and more like a candid backstage chat. You’ll hear from legendary performers and modern-day players who carry the torch, as well as the essential behind-the-scenes figures whose stories are often untold. Produced by Eric Kohler for Rockery Radio, this podcast builds a living archive of a vibrant musical community. The discussions are insightful and personal, revealing the passion, challenges, and camaraderie that define the scene. Tuning in offers a deep appreciation for the beats and offbeats that built L.A.'s distinctive sound, one story at a time. It’s a direct line to the artists and architects of a movement that continues to resonate.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

History of L.A. Ska: One On One Sessions
Podcast Episodes
Episode 128: The Dynamics Alumni [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:35:24
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with current and former members of the veteran Los Angeles-based, traditional ska group, The Dynamics - Amber Foxx, Tony Escarcega, Dex McFerson, Ted Morris, Eric Morrison…
Episode 123: Devin Morrison & John Butcher (The Expanders) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:29:41
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with two founding members of The Expanders - Devin Morrison and John Butcher.Devin's credits also include Man Like Devin & The Relatives, Long Beach Dub Allstars, The Lion…
Episode 122: Stephen Bradley (No Doubt, Gwen Stefani) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:36
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with trumpeter, keyboardist, singer, songwriter, Stephen Bradley, whose credits include No Doubt, Gwen Stefani, Steel Pulse, Sullvn Band, and Smashing Pumpkins.
Episode 121: Pauline Black (The Selecter) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:16
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with legendary frontwoman, singer, songwriter, and actor, Pauline Black, of 2-Tone group, The Selecter.