Legendary selector Pink Panther was crowned at Irish and Chin’s ‘World Bash’ in New York during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend for the legacy he has curated over the past several decades.

Billed as a victory for sound system culture by thousands of fans, emotions ran high at the musically charged event.

Pink Panther — who is referred to as the nine-time World Clash General — was celebrated for his endless contributions to sound system, sound clash, reggae and dancehall music and culture over his storied career.

There wasn’t a dry eye in Amazura, as the influential Pink Panther was praised by fellow members of the sound system fraternity and legions of fans.

An emotional Pink Panther expressed gratitude while reflecting on dedicating 38 wonderful years of his life to sound business. The famed selector, who has been facing health challenges, declared boldly, “I am not going to die,” before ‘bussing the crowd’ in true Pink Panther style.

He charged into a bevy of hard-hitting anthems, which had the crowd bursting at the seams in excitement.

“My intent is to honour all who have given their lives to sound system culture,” Garfield “Chin” Bourne of Irish and Chin said.

He added: “As the premier promoter in this space, I hold a unique and powerful position, which allows me to properly celebrate artists, selectors, [and] sounds. Sound systems are the least celebrated, despite their enormous impact. Sounds are the backbone of reggae and dancehall music and culture.”

The historic World Bash was a sensational musical climax to Mighty Crown’s sound journey. The line-up also featured a who’s who of sounds, including Soul Supreme, Bass Odyssey, Killamanjaro, David Rodigan, Dynamq, Tony Matterhorn, Pink Panther, LP International, Bodyguard, Metromedia, and Mighty Crown.

Pink Panther’s work with Irish and Chin began more than 25 years ago, including a performance at their very first sound clash. The popular selector ultimately adapted the moniker nine-time World Clash General from his countless victories in the landmark clashes.

Born Edward Johnson, the General Pink Panther grew up in the Seaview Gardens and Grant’s Pen communities in the Corporate Area, with a strong sound system upbringing.

He rose to fame on Black Kat from Christiana, Manchester.