I’m not really into electronics just enough to be able to help myself, to put things together and test them properly, you know. SSN: So the skills with the electrical part of this business, where did they come from? I tried calling him, drove to his house, but couldn’t find him and I came back and say, ‘I have to try and help myself today’. Actually, somebody used to make them for me and one morning the guy couldn’t turn up and we had to finish building that day. Ronnie: Well, I was making speakers for myself. SSN: And what was the first sound system you made? Ronnie: I would say about the past 14 or 15 years. How long have you been in this business of making sound systems? We met about three years ago right here, but I don’t recall what brought me here. SSN: Uncle Ronnie, it has been a long time and I’m happy to see you. Recalling his dancehall exploits, which date back to the ’60s, Ronald Jarrett – affectionately known as Uncle Ronnie – openly shared the story of music’s role in his life, and gave me a sneak peak at the sound system he built for the Sole DXB team. ![]() I had the opportunity to interview one of today’s sound system builders at his seaside base in Wickie Wackie, and here’s the story of how he got involved. The dancehall that has been built on the foundation of Jamaica’s innovation in sound easily became my chosen form of entertainment. By the time I turned 16 and my parents staged a sound system-traffic-blocking-party to celebrate my birthday, I was sold on Jamaica’s brand of music making and consumption. From Sir Coxsone Dodd and Thomas Wong, to King Tubby and Prince Buster, several sound system demigods have emerged with more importance than prime ministers of the day. The sound system is Jamaica’s national instrument and there are unique technologies, personalities, and moments associated with its evolution and global significance.
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