Fatman began his career collaborating with Sir Fanso The Tropical Downbeat, where he was responsible for selecting music for the Sound. When Sir Fanso dismantled the Sound and returned to Jamaica, Fatman chose to start his Sound System. In 1974, he initially named his Sound Wild Bells, later rebranding it to Imperial Downbeat before ultimately adopting the name Fatman Hifi. He financed this new Sound by working two jobs.

By 1977, Fatman had opened a record shop on West Green Road in Tottenham. Before that, he ran a store on Tottenham High Road, situated right next to the police station. In 1979, Fatman Hifi earned the title of the best Sound System at the Black Echoes British Reggae Awards. Throughout the early 1980s, MCs Raymond Naptali and Roy Ranking regularly performed on the sound and released records under Fatman’s KG Imperial Record label.

In 1981, in an interview with Black Echoes, Ken “Fatman” Gordon described the Sound as follows:

“Weight section: thirty eighteen inch speakers. Mid Range: four fifteen and four twelve inch units. Top end, tweaters; two in each mid range unit. Fully transistorised amplification; and yes it’s all three noughts! Record deck: single auto changer.”

Fatman forged a solid partnership with Prince Jammy in Jamaica, which allowed them to access Jammy’s dubs ahead of UK sounds. This collaboration eventually led to some of Jammy’s productions being distributed through KG Imperial. Additionally, Fatman worked with King Tubby and Bunny Lee to bring their music to the UK market.

In the 1990s, the Sound System went on hiatus as Fatman shifted his attention to production, distribution, promotion, and managing his son’s Sound System, Gold Star Muzik. Eventually, Fatman Hifi resumed its activities, participating in revival dances and various festivals.

Our deepest condolences to all family and friends.