- Identifying some of the challenges reggae music faces on the international front
- Solutions to resolve some of these challenges in the near future
- Securing Jamaica's competitive advantage in the global market
- The fate of the Jamaican sound system culture
The Sound System Culture
Since the 1950s, sound systems have played an integral role in Jamaica's music culture. However, in recent years there have been concerns on whether or not sound systems have become irrelevant to the industry. Representing popular sound system Bass Odyssey, Yaniq Walford argued that although the culture is not what it once was, "sound systems have become synonymous with Jamaican culture....." Founded back in 1989 by Keith Walford, Bass Odyssey like every other sound system is competing with the digital age. Yaniq Walford is quite aware of this and note, "there are changes that need to be made is sound systems are to be sustainable." She asserted Jamaica's Noise Abatement Act is doing "more harm than good for the sustainability of sound systems." Other issues affecting the sound system culture as pointed out by Yaniq Walford include:
- An extension of the 2:00am curfew set according to the Noise Abatement Act
- Selectors/DJs offering their services as alternatives for a complete sound system
- Payola "money pull-up" threatens the purpose of patrons enjoying music selections in dancehall read more
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Gussie Clarke |
Securing Jamaica's Competitive Advantage in the Global Market
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Pat Meschino |
This trend according to Ms. Meschino is demonstrated even today as total sales of leading Jamaican Reggae artiste Chronixx Dread and Terrible album is 9000 units, compared to California base reggae band SOJA, who's totalling sales in the amount of 30,000 copies. If these numbers are to be turned around in favour of Jamaican artistes once more, Pat Meschino suggested:-
- Re-stragized marketing plans to compete effectively on the international market
- Financial Investments
- The availability of resources
Citing the recent success of OMI's 'Cheerleader' single in the global market, Pat Meschino said, "the song Cheerleader was so good that even without the remix, it was possible that in its original reggae format, it could have reaped similar success if the correct marketing muscle and finances were put behind it from the beginning." Reiterating what many local reggae/dancehall music enthusiasts have been saying, she said, "This is the home of reggae, and you should know that from the minute you step off the plane. The music should be playing in the airports, hotels, restaurants, and so on" she concluded see full article
International Reggae Day was founded by Ms Andrea Davis, who also manages Toots and the Maytals, IP and Brand Consultant. The event attracted several speakers and participants both locally and internationally.
Gleaner Writer: Sherita Grizzle's
Click to view publication: Gleaner Jamaica
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