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"

This week "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.

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

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:

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

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”

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Welcome to the vibrant and turbulent world of Kingston, Jamaica, as experienced by Henry Karyo a passionate American welcomed into the storied halls of Tuff Gong Studios, Bob Marley's record label. Guided by the iconic Bob Andy, Henry traverses the beauty and heartbreak of Jamaica while learning about its rich musical traditions and tragic social and political landscape carved out by years of colonization. The Rootsland journey continues as Henry is introduced to Tuff Gong's upcoming generation of reggae artists, and the tensions that have shaped Kingston's ghetto and garrison communities. From interactions with music legends and encounters with desperate street kids to understanding the devastating impact of historical events, this episode is a profound exploration of resilience, dreams, and the power of music.

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

Introduction by: Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Additional Voices by: Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor

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

Featured Music:

The Yoko Theory “Meds”

Black Uhuru “Slaughter”

Bob Andy “Ghetto Stays in the Mind Dub

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Hanging out on the edges of Kingston, Jamaica, Henry and Bob Andy chat about how music, culture, and the complex political scene all come together.. Henry reveals the turmoil and power struggles following Bob Marley's death, painting a vivid picture of legal battles and family dynamics. The listener is taken on a journey through boardroom conflicts and street realities, providing a unique perspective on Marley’s enduring influence and the challenges of preserving his legacy. Meanwhile, a chance meeting at a hotel bar with a local gangster named Rude Boy Tex, may prove to be Henry's most valuable Kingston connection.

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

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Introduction by: Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Additional Voices: Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor

You can support the Show by purchasing The Rootsland (Original Podcast Soundtrack) Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Broadcasting from the rolling red hills on the outskirts of Kingston, Jamaica, Host Henry K reflects on his time working in Kingston, his interactions with local characters and the profound impact of reggae music on the island's people. In this Chapter of Rootsland Henry describes his routine in Kingston, highlighting the balance between comfort and danger in a city vibrant with life yet fraught with challenges. The episode details his companionship with Tex, a tough yet humorous "Rude Boy" gangster who helps Henry navigate the complexities of Kingston. A reggae concert in Port Royal punctuates the narrative, where Henry, alongside friends like Brother Nelson and Romie, emphasizes how music serves as a cultural cornerstone, fostering resilience and hope among Jamaica's working class and beyond.

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

cover photo Tex & Crew Brian Jahn (@brianjahnphoto) • Instagram photos and videos

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

Introduction by: Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Additional Voices: Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor

Featured song: "Living One Day at a Time(Extended Mix)" by Sugar Black & Lehbanchuleh

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This Chapter's richly woven narrative takes listeners on a journey through the streets of Jamaica, capturing the essence of its vibrant culture and the darker shadows of its societal challenges. The story unfolds with a morning walk through the city, where an encounter with local hustlers escalates into a tense confrontation, underscoring the harsh realities faced by those perceived as outsiders or different. This incident serves as a microcosm of broader societal issues, as the narrative examines the role of the dons in maintaining social order, their influence extending from local communities to international perceptions of Jamaican culture. The episode presents a nuanced exploration of the complexities of life in Jamaica, where tradition and modernity collide, and the struggle for acceptance and progress persists.

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

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

Introduction by: Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Guest Vocals by: Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor

Featured song: Halfpint - “Bully You a Bully”

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

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Chapter 8 "Legalize it, Don't Criticize it" recounts host Henry K's adventurous road trip through Jamaica on his way to attend Reggae Sunsplash, a legendary music festival that serves as a meeting point for diverse groups of people united by their love for reggae. The narrative examines the complex relationship between the Jamaican authorities and the Rastafarian community, shedding light on the persecution faced by reggae artists and advocates of marijuana legalization. It explores the economic and cultural forces at play, illustrating how reggae music became a global phenomenon while navigating the challenges of legal and social barriers. The podcast provides a thoughtful analysis of the historical context, drawing connections between the music industry, tourism, and the evolving perception of marijuana in Jamaica.

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

Introduction by: Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Guest Vocals by: Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor

Featured song: Sugar Black and Lehbanchuleh - “Give Thanks” Produced by Henry K

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

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Kingston to Cali "Reggae's Journey West" Podcast Series - Apple Podcasts