Big Bear Records, probably the longest established independent record company in the UK, have been at the forefront of Jazz, Swing and Blues since 1968. The company was named Big Bear by legendary radio producer John Peel who thought the gait of the label's founder, Jim Simpson, resembled that of a bear. The label grew out of Simpson's production company which has steered Black Sabbath through their first three albums and first hit single. Since 1985, Big Bear Music has organised the annual Birmingham, Sandwell & Westside Jazz Festival. Europe’s biggest free (as in gratis) jazz party, every July the festival brings bands from across the globe to over 200 venues across the West Midlands. Big Bear Music’s live agency represents touring bands including King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys, Tipitina and Lady Sings The Blues, and regularly books a wide variety of acts for public events and private functions. Since 1987, The Jazz Rag magazine has been at the heart of the British jazz scene, published bi-monthly and containing news, reviews and features on both the rich history of jazz from across the globe, and exciting new album releases, tours and festivals. Now in their 32nd year, The British Jazz Awards play a vital role in providing recognition for the best musicians, bands and albums releases in this country’s jazz scene The next wave signings include Tipitina, Will Johns, Django’s Castle and Nomy Rosenberg Trio. NEW BOOK: Don't Worry 'Bout The Bear The Story of Jim Simpson's 60 years in Jazz, rock and blues, written in collaboration with Ron Simpson. Available from https://www.bigbearmusic.com/product/dont-worry-bout-the-bear/