Joi – Information release – Document

Series nameJoi
Description

This information release details the progression of Joi from its conception as a Bangladeshi youth movement in the mid-1980s to a DJ-ing, writing and producing band, performing live at various popular London dance clubs in the 1990s.

Date of Creation / Publication
CreatorNation Records
Associated Person/ OrganisationJoi
LocationLondon
Collection and Reference NumberNation Records Collection (GB 2661 NR)
Catalogue NumberNR/OB/JO/3
CopyrightThe Creator and/ or associated person or organisation where applicable
Access to originalsThe originals are located at Nation Records Limited
Series notesTwo Anglo-Bengali brothers Farook and Haroon Shamsher, formed Joi in the mid 1980s as part of the Joi Bangla Movement, a shortened name of the 'League of Joi Bangla Youth Organisation'. The organisation was set up to promote Bengali culture to local youths. The brothers were already DJ-ing before signing to the Nation Records label and promoted themselves at their own club nights. They were awarded New Musical Express' Single of the Week for 'Desert Storm'. Joi's only album release on Nation Records was 'The Bangladesh EP' in 1996. Sadly, in July 1999, Haroon Shamsher passed away suddenly, leaving his brother Farook to guide their music to new depths. Farook Shamsher has subsequently conducted a European tour and released two dance albums on Real World Records.
Collection notesThe material from the Nation Records collection consists of various CD covers, press releases, promotional photography, lyrics and flyers from twelve of the bands signed to the record label since 1989.