Sounds of East Kingston 36
February is Reggae Month and the Jamaica Observer continues its coverage with related stories.
THE outbreak of violence in east Kingston last week turned the national spotlight on an area designated a ‘hot spot’ by law enforcement in recent years.
Back in the day, much of the noise from that area was musical. The Rockfort community was the epicentre of a movement that produced Jamaica’s greatest musicians.
In the early 1960s, Rockfort was the official base of the Skatalites, an all-star band that popularised ska, a jazz-inspired sound.
It was also home to Count Ossie, spiritual leader of the Mystic Revelation of Rastafari drummers, who presided over informal jam sessions at the foot of Wareika Hills.
The vibe at these events put east Kingston on the music map and inspired outstanding albums like Grounation by the Mystic Revelation of Rastafari and trombonist Rico Rodriquez’ Man From Wareika.
Most of the ‘Elders’ who were part of East Kingston’s music renaissance, including Count Ossie, have died. While their impressive legacy is intact, it has been overshadowed by bloodshed throughout the community.
