Olaf Karnik is an author, journalist and critic for radio and print media such as WDR 3, Spex, and Neue Zürcher Zeitung. He has published books and articles about African American pop music, reggae in Germany, and music videos, has organised music events and presentations, and since 2009 is active as a lecturer at various universities in Germany. He has played in several bands and has been releasing albums since 1985.