The sound system concept first became popular in the 1950's, in Kingston, Jamaica. In an environment where indigenous (i.e. black), artistic and social expression was discouraged, Sound systems were created for the dispossessed. DJs would load up a truck with a generator, turntables, and huge speakers and set up street parties.
The success of sound systems have been partly based on their mobile nature and the ability to foster this feeling of “community”. Not only through the music that was being played, but also through the income opportunities that the events offered for the whole community.
Sound systems have now become part of the culture in most countries throughout the world. At some events it is not uncommon for thousands of people to be in attendance.
Sound systems are also at the centre of the Notting Hill Carnival and have proven crucial to the development of UK urban music, as outfits like Soul II Soul in London and The Wild Bunch in Bristol began life as local sound systems.
In New York, hip-hop grew out of a sound system set up by an ex-pat Jamaican, DJ Kool Herc, as he brought Kingston’s dancehall culture to American music.
