Here at Reggae Roast we love soundsystem culture. It brings people together, builds communities and so much more! But where did it all start? In this post we're going to explore the origins of this influential movement that continues to inspire so many people around the world. Soundsystems first emerged in Jamaica after World War II. In 1947, a man named Hedley Jones, drawing on his experience as a Radar Engineer in the British Air Force, built the first amplifier in Jamaica. Using his severance pay from the army, Jones opened a shop selling radios and records. He built the amp so he...

This week's artist spotlight is another special one for us as we sat down for a chat with our very own Matt Interrupt, the producer, engineer and Dubwise maestro who co-produced both of our LPs 'Turn Up The Heat' and 'More Fire' as well as much more music that you have yet to hear! Matt Interrupt is a reggae/dancehall producer based in London, UK. He is a core member and music producer for Reggae Roast Soundsystem, and has also put out his own releases on labels such as Scotch Bonnet Records, Raider Records, Cubiculo Records, Chopstick Dubplate and Sound Transmission Records,as well as...

Ever wanted to learn how to do your own Dub Mixes? Twisting knobs and creating out of this world soudscapes. Endless possibilities at your fingertips.  We want to help get as many people up & dubbing ASAP and start a Dubolution! Thats why were releasing Reggae Roast Stems.... Now you can use the stems from some of our favourite tracks. Heavy Roots tunes with instrumentation and vocals from true greats such as Johnny Clarke & Horace Andy.  Stem Packs are designed to let people experience the endless possibilities of Dubbing by giving them access to high quality recordings of different instruments...

Throughout October in the UK, numerous events are happening nationwide to celebrate Black History Month, check the links at the bottom of this article to find out more. Black History Month originated in the United States in 1926, but it wasn’t until 1987 that it took root in the UK, thanks to Ghanaian activist Akyaaba Addai-Sebo who spearheaded the movement. He wanted to address racism in Britain and educate people about the history of the African diaspora, establishing October as the month to honour the rich legacy of Black communities in the UK.  Reggae Music has played an important role...

Ever been at a dance, and suddenly the DJ drops a tune that you know, but it’s got a twist—a name drop, a special intro, or a wicked bassline that you’ve never heard before? Well, that, my friend, is the magic of a dubplate. Dubplates are a cornerstone of sound system culture, especially in Reggae, Dancehall, Jungle, and Hip-Hop. If you’ve ever wondered what makes these mystical items of soundclash supremacy so significant, then read on to be enlightened. In the simplest terms, a dubplate is an exclusive version of a track, often personalised with lyrics or sounds unique to...

This edition of the Riddim Breakdown series is a special one as we take a look at what has to be one of the most versioned riddims in the history of Reggae. ‘Real Rock’ was created in the late 1960s by the legendary Jamaican band Sound Dimension at the famous Studio One. This riddim has become a cornerstone of Reggae music, influencing countless artists across genres and generations. Its infectious bassline, driving rhythm, and distinctive organ melodies have made it a foundational groove that continues to resonate in music today. The ‘Real Rock’ riddim was crafted in 1967 under the direction...