The Birth of  Sound Systems

The Sound System culture is regarded as an important part of Jamaican cultural history. The concept first arose in the ghettoes of Kingston, Jamaica, were DJ's and crews loaded up boxes, amps, records and a generator setting up mobile street parties (initially playing American R&B). 

Competition between Sound Systems was fierce and two DJ's emerged as the stars - Clement 'Coxsone' Dodd and Duke Reid.  Eventually, when more local music was produced and played (Ska and Rocksteady) the Sound System became a viable business in an unstable economy.  Charging an entrance fee on the door and selling alcohol was common but nevertheless Sound Systems attracted an audience of thousands.

Into the 60's, custom Sound Systems were being built by specialists such as Headley Jones.  The DJ's and MC's became the superstars of this era.

Having access to new music was a key aspect of these sounds.  Not bowing to the trend of American produced music and American record labels, both Coxsone and Reid began to produce their own music exclusively for their own Sound Systems, known as 'Dubplates' or 'Exclusives'.  The ongoing production of the dub plates led to the distinctly Jamaican sound and genre of Ska where the producers introduced the more traditional rhythm guitar.  As Ska gained popularity, music production in Jamaica became a serious game. Coxsone began ‘Studio One’ while Duke Reid founded ‘Treasure Isle’.

Sound Systems come to Coventry

During the 1950s and 1960s, Jamaicans and West Indians continued arriving to live and work in the UK - bringing with them their love of music and socialising.