In the poignant debut of Rootsland, host Henry K reveals the transformative journey of himself and friend Brian, who set out to change the world through their music. Moving to Kingston, Jamaica in 1991, they rented a house in the hills of Armour Heights, turning it into an artistic sanctuary that attracted talent from all over. Amidst this vibrant mix of culture and music, Brian immersed himself in the life of Kingston's ghettos, offering respect and recognition to the disenfranchised, until his untimely death from an overdose in 1997.

The conversation shifts to the origins of the narrator Henry K's love for reggae music, tracing back to his teenage years in the US Virgin Islands, where he discovered a profound connection with reggae. This passion followed him to Washington, DC, where a fortuitous encounter with a reggae CD produced by Doctor Dread led him to an internship at RAS Records. Through vivid storytelling, the episode navigates significant moments: from discovering reggae music's unifying power, experiencing the political upheaval of the Iran-Contra scandal, to finding solace and purpose at Tower Records.

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios in Kingston, Jamaica.

Introduction by:

Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Featured Music:

Wayne Armond - "Righteous People"

On this week's show "When the Music Hits", host Henry K takes listeners on an evocative trip through his college days and the formative experiences that shaped his love for reggae music. We hear about his unique experiences as an intern at the iconic RAS Records, where he was mentored by music pioneer Doctor Dread, and his friendship with a young Jamaican named Carson.

The narrative weaves through Henry’s interactions with seminal reggae figures and his immersion into the authentic reggae culture. Highlighting encounters with Brian from Colorado and the legendary Joseph Hill, the episode culminates in an evocative recounting of his time spent in the studio with Joseph and the influential Roots Radics band, capturing the essence of what reggae music means to its fans and creators

Rootsland is produced by Henry K Productions Inc. in association with Voice Boxx Studios in Kingston, Jamaica.

https://rootsland.captivate.fm/support

Introduction by:

Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Guest Vocals by:

Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor

Jermaine Keys

Featured Music:

Big Mountain and Uton Green - " I Can See for Miles"

Notes: This episode contains excerpts from NPR's All Things Considered (the original story was reported by friend and colleague: the late, great, Tom Terrell; BBC Radio's Interview with Joseph "Culture" Hill Conducted by Mark Lamar; and Joseph Hill performing "2 Sevens Clash" live.

In this captivating chapter of the Rootsland podcast, journey into the heart of Kingston, Jamaica, where dreams and reggae rhythms intertwine. Henry, a disillusioned justice student turned music enthusiast, embarks on an adventure that leads him to the iconic Tuff Gong Records. Influenced by the legendary Bob Marley's philosophy of self-reliance and the unwavering support of friends like Brian from Colorado, Henry explores the possibility of carving a niche in the music industry. Once in Kingston, Henry's story intertwines with the remarkable narratives of reggae legends like "Deadly" Headley Bennett and Bob Andy. Introduction by:

https://rootsland.captivate.fm/support

Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Guest Vocals by:

Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor Adam "Teacha" Barnes

All music Produced by Henry K

Featured Music:

Israel Vibrations - “Black Muddy River”

Bob Andy - “Fire Burning”

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"