How did footwear made by a Quaker firm in the quiet English village of Street, Somerset, become the "baddest" shoes in Jamaica? (That might sound like marketing speak, but during last year’s London Olympics Usain Bolt gave an interview with Tim Westwood and actually spoke the words "Badmen wear Clarks".)
Published by One Love Books, Clarks in Jamaica is the latest book by DJ and designer Al Fingers, providing a colourful take on Clarks’ celebrated status on the island, where for decades they have ruled as the "champion shoes". The book, you may not be surprised to learn, tell the story of Clarks in Jamaica. From their arrival in the West indies one hundred years ago, through to their adoption as the rudeboy and Rasta shoe of choice during the 1960s, and the filtering of this popularity into reggae and dancehall song lyrics. Featuring current and historic photographs, interviews and never-before-seen archival material, there is particular focus on the Jamaican singers, producers and musicians who have worn and sung about Clarks shoes throughout the years.
We’ve got two copies, signed by Al Fingers, to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, and in a slight departure from the normal format, just e-mail your answer to the following question to comps@thequietus.com, with CLARKS in the subject line, by midday Monday February 18. It’s open to UK residents only, and to read the Quietus Competition terms & conditions, click here.
Below are two versions of the Clarks In Jamaica book cover. What’s the difference?
