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...

A new documentary tells the fascinating but tragic story of Jungle MC Stevie Hyper D, the underground music icon who cut his teeth on the Reggae Soundsystems of South London in the 80s and grew to embody everything that Jungle Music represented. We are supporting the Kickstarter campaign to help get the film in cinemas this year.  Support the project on Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mcsteviehyperd/hyper-the-stevie-hyper-d-story  Over the past 70 years, Reggae Soundsystem culture has grown from the street corners and lawns of Jamaica to leave its mark on the entire world. But its impact has perhaps been most significant on the...

Notting Hill Carnival is the biggest street party in Europe, a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture in the heart of London which is held every year during the August Bank Holiday. While there are many different Carnivals around the world, Notting Hill Carnival is particularly unique. A community-led event founded by anti-racism campaigners in the 1950s, it has grown to be one of London’s biggest events, attended by millions each year. The origins of Notting Hill Carnival can be traced back to the summer of 1958, following a period of increased racial tension and social unrest in Britain, gangs of...

This month's Artist Spotlight is an extra special one, as it features none other than James Harper, the DJ, Producer, Soundman and founder of Reggae Roast. So we’re going to dive into James’s story and of course, the story of Reggae Roast. James has dedicated his life to bringing people together through music. He put on his first events as a teenager in Kentish Town, North London in the 90s and has gone on to stage 100’s of events, spanning 4 decades. He has put out dozens of releases, both as a producer and through his label, providing a platform...

On July 1st, the Reggae Roast train pulls in at Kanteena, for whats sure to be one of the biggest outdoor Reggae parties Lancaster has ever seen! And best of all its absolutely FREEEEEE! GET YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE! Reggae Roast plus Natty Campbell & Donovan Kingjay will be doing a special 3 hour set taking you through the ages of Reggae and keeping the vibes nice! 🏼⬇🏼⬇we're Packing The Place Out With Mcs, Djs, Bbqs, Rumbahhh, Outdoor Sound System, Kids Disco & Family Workshops. 🏽‍🎤 Mcs Natty Campbell & Donovan KingjayDjs...Reggae Roast Feat Natty Campbell & Donovan KingjayMatty BantonNatural SelectasJonny...

We're excited to join forces with Scotlands finest female MC, Soom T on this unstoppable digital reggae stomper.... PRE-SAVE 'LISTEN' ON THE DSPs Soom's rapid flow, singjay style of MCing make her a unique talent and one of the most popular artists with a cult following having after her hit with Mungo's Hi Fi 'Did You Really Know'For this release we have also included the Version for all you soundsystem heads & selectors out there!  Reggae Roast join forces with Scotlands finest female MC; Soom T on this unstoppable digital reggae stomper. In the build up to their new album More...