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 110: Chris Dowd (Fishbone) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:56
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with Chris Dowd, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist of veteran group, Fishbone.
Episode 106: Bay Area Ska with Adam Davis, Curtis Meacham & Eric Din [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:27:33
On this Bay Area Ska episode, host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with three veterans on the scene - singer/guitarist Eric Din (The Uptones), singer/guitarist Curtis Meacham (Monkey), and singer Adam Davis (…
Episode 105: The Goodwin Club [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:11:23
Host Junor Francis and producer Eric Kohler talk with three members of the Orange County, CA-based, veteran ska/punk group, The Goodwin Club - singer Tami Demaree, saxophonist Dean Medford, and guitarist Jesse Wilder.