Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

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Another entertaining Tuesday night at the Kingston Night Market. This was recorded the same night Sampalue had his album launch, and featured here are other artists who performed - Karbon, Ragga Jahmari, Reggae Max, Boom Dawn, and Fire George. Live band on the stand, and the vibes were really nice.

Upcoming reggae star KARBON was born in Kingston, Jamaica. Raised with a humble background in Broadleaf in the parish of Manchester. From a youth, Karbon’s love for reggae and dancehall has never wavered.
He wrote his first song as a teenager. This encouraged him to start entering talent shows, musical competitions, and performing at different shows.
Rooted in the rich soil of Rastafari culture and reggae tradition, Karbon is an artist whose music radiates authenticity, soul, and deep respect for the culture he represents.
With a voice that carries warmth and conviction, Karbon has quickly become a standout figure among emerging talents, staying true to his roots while connecting powerfully with today’s audiences.
Karbon’s artistry reflects a deep spiritual connection and commitment to truth-telling through music. One of his latest releases, ‘Steaming’, produced by renowned artiste and producer The Grei Show, pays homage to the ritual of steaming – deeply tied to the Rastafari livity. With powerful lyrics and a meditative beat, the song invites listeners into a grounded, conscious space that uplifts and inspires.
Among crowd favorites is his well-known anthem, ‘High Grade Maka’ – a track that never fails to ignite energy wherever it’s played. This tune has become a staple in Karbon’s performances, celebrated for its homage to natural herbs and the conscious lifestyle of Rastafari.

Heather Harding, aka BOOM DAWN, singer, dub poetess, DJ, and songwriter,
Born in the parish of Hanover on the 28th of October. She attended Mt. Ward
Primary and later Herbert Morrison Technical High School. Boom Dawn hails
from a musical family, and it was destined that she would become a great
edutainer. As a child, she had a special gift for singing and entertaining those
who were around her. She started singing in the church junior choir
at the age of eight years old, and has performed at schools, churches, concerts, and festivals.
In high school, she was the lead singer of the African Star band based in
Montego Bay, but was forced to leave her dream by her mother, who thought
It was a distraction from schoolwork. On graduating from high school, she moved to Kingston, where she became a member of the Twelve Tribes of Israel organization.
There, she got the opportunity to display her musical talents as she accompanied lots of great artists on stage. These artists include Billy Mystic, Sugar Minott, Daniel Ray, Informative Historyman, and Sizzla Kalonji, just to name a few.
Since 2009, she has been a part of the Voices for Climate Change
Education. This is a project sponsored by Panos Caribbean and the National Environmental Education Committee (NEEC) and promotes about twenty (20) artistes traveling to schools and communities edutaining students and community members about climate Change. a

Up-and-coming reggae artist, RAGGA JAHMARI, born Raheem Burrell, is launching his music career even further with his inclusion in last year’s staging of Rastafest in Canada.
The son of noted audio engineer and producer Nigel Burrell, who co-produced Toots and the Maytals’ Grammy Award-winning album Got to be Tough, among several other major projects, Ragga Jahmari credits his passion and talent to the influence of those who have nurtured him.
“I fell in love with music based on the influence and being around reggae music,” he told Observer Online.
Known for his songs such as Strong Melanin, Words of Garvey, and Irie and Mellow – a tribute cover to Beres Hammond, the instrumentalist, composer, producer, writer, and singer said if he had to describe himself with just one title, it would definitely be producer. He is, however, hoping that his singing and performance at Rastafest will lead to more collaborations as he pursues his goal of achieving acclaim on the world stage.
“I want to see myself touring. The goal is to even open for another [big] artiste and push into becoming a world-wide name as a reggae artiste,” Ragga Jahmari said.
For him, “reggae is a community” which grows even stronger when talents combine. “Reggae is a community and a way to bring unity,” he said.
The 22-year-old is pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of the West Indies (Mona) in Music and Performance Studies while performing with the band Grvmnt.

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1 week ago | [YT] | 22

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

Up next. A great album launch, on January 20, 2026, for Jamaican music producer/singer, Sampalue, at The Kingston Night Market.

Born Garfield Phillips in 1966, Sampalue is a visionary music producer and businessman who has embraced a new chapter in his career as a recording artist. A proud son of Hanna Town in West Kingston, Jamaica, and a former Wolmer’s High School student, Sampalue’s music industry journey began in 1989.

Sampalue first gained recognition in the early 1990s as the manager and producer behind the meteoric rise of Marion “Lady Saw” Hall, the former Queen of Dancehall. He produced several iconic hits for her, including “Find A Good Man,” “Stab Out the Meat,” and “Give Me the Reason.” His production credits extend far beyond Lady Saw, featuring collaborations with reggae and dancehall legends such as Marcia Griffiths, Luciano, Beenie Man, Sanchez, Ghost, and the late Dennis Brown.

The son of George “Phil Pratt” Phillips—a celebrated producer who crafted hits like Dennis Brown’s “What About the Half” and John Holt’s “Strange Things”—Sampalue’s love for music runs deep. Inspired by his father’s legacy, he has not only contributed to the evolution of Jamaican music but has also begun to leave a mark as an artist in his own right.

In recent years, Sampalue has turned to writing and performing songs with uplifting messages and social consciousness. Among his notable releases are “Let Go” featuring Don Diezel (formerly Pancho), “Ghetto Youths,” “In My Life,” and a heartfelt cover of Dennis Brown’s “Make It Easy on Yourself.”

His debut album, “Hanna Town,” released on April 6, 2019, pays homage to his roots and showcases his evolution as both a creative force and an artist. Since 2019, Sampalue has been busy in the studio writing, recording, and building a catalog of music as an artist, leading to his latest album, “Unmistakable.”

Having established himself as a producer before launching his career as a singer, Sampalue knows the importance of making a mark outside of Jamaica.

“Getting a number one song in the overseas market is crucial, given the fact that it allows promoters to recognize you as a force to be reckoned with. And as an extension, the possibility to be booked on shows overseas,” he said.

‘Left With A Broken Heart’ was originally done in 1964 by The Four Tops for Motown Records. John Holt, George Nooks, and Johnny Clarke had massive hits with reggae versions of the song.

The success of his take, Sampalue noted, is good news for ‘Unmistakeable’.

“It is of much benefit to my album, as it creates attention for the public to go and listen to the album in its entirety, and I'm positive that they will find several more tracks that they are drawn to,” he said.

As a producer, Sampalue produced songs for his Diamond Rush label by artists including Lady Saw, Dennis Brown, Frankie Pau,l and Ninjaman. Seven years ago, he officially started his recording career and has since released several songs, including ‘Democracy’ and ‘All Things Bright And Beautiful’.
With a career that bridges generations, Sampalue continues to inspire and redefine what it means to be an innovator in reggae and dancehall music.

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3 weeks ago | [YT] | 30

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

I am in shock after just hearing that Hopton James has died. A warm, soulful, and humble brother who communicated with people through his singing. I was so overwhelmed that I had to put together this tribute to him as soon as I heard the sad news. Celestial trod Hopeton, rest in eternal power, you will never be forgotten.

Irie Soldiers, posted this heartfelt tribute to Hopeton James.
"I have just received the sad news that Hopeton James has passed away.
It is with sadness that we report the passing of Hopeton James, the respected Jamaican reggae artist. The exact date or cause of his death is not specified in recent news, but his contributions to reggae music are significant and widely acknowledged within the community.

Hopeton James was a prominent Jamaican musician renowned for his work in the roots reggae genre. He was Born in Kingston, Jamaica, on February 21st, 1961.

Hopeton James was one of Jamaica’s most soulful voices, famously known as the "Medley King" for his ability to blend Motown soul with dancehall riddims.
​His career began in the early 80s with the roots-influenced album "Countryman" (Afro Eagle, 1981). However, his definitive era came in the late 1980s during the digital revolution. At King Jammy’s, he released his masterpiece "Ready To Rock" (1988), which included the legendary "Sure Shot Medley", a track that defined the "singer style" of that period.
​Simultaneously, James became a pillar for Winston Riley’s Techniques Records. He recorded solo hits like "I’m Lonely" and joined the final line-up of the legendary vocal group The Techniques, updating classics such as "Queen Majesty" for a new generation.
​In the 90s, he continued his success with the "My Girl Medley" (Mixing Lab) and collaborated with producers like Michael Bennett (Two Friends) and labels like Roof International, where he scored hits alongside deejays like Jigsy King. His discography remains a perfect bridge between classic 60s soul and modern Jamaican dancehall.
His discography includes notable tracks like "Chain Gang", "The Stalker", and "Magic Touch".

A distinctive aspect of his legacy is the widespread use of his music within sound system circles. His track "In the Mood (To Kill A Sound)" has become a classic dubplate version—an essential "must-have" item for sound systems to use in "sound clashes".
The track, sometimes referred to simply as "In the Mood," is particularly valued for its direct lyrics and energy, making it perfect for live performances and competitions."
Trod well, king 🕊#HOPETONJAMES

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2 months ago | [YT] | 105

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

My next video pays homage to two interesting characters who livened up the dancehall space but are now deceased, one of them passed a few days ago. They are Jackie Knock Shot, who passed on in 2010, and Joe Lick Shot, who passed a few days ago.
Harold Jackson, better known as Joe Lickshot, a renowned figure in the reggae and dancehall music scenes, has died.
The entertainer, celebrated for pioneering vocal sound effects known as “lick shots,” and who had been suffering from prostate issues, passed away yesterday.
His dynamic exclamations, often heard during performances and recordings, became a hallmark of the genre.
Emerging in the vibrant Jamaican music scene of the 1970s, Joe Lickshot collaborated with various artists and producers, contributing to numerous tracks that showcased his distinctive style.
Beyond his studio recordings, Joe Lickshot was an influential presence in live performances and sound system culture.
His contributions have left an indelible mark on reggae and dancehall music.

Jackie Knockshot (b. Samuel Hamilton, 1960, West Kingston) was a famous intro man known for his wild lick shots (sound effects). He started making sound effects as a youth while going to school. The sounds he created would be taken from guns, shells, and ammunition. But also inspired by Bammy Man, he would initially hum bass lines and rhythms on dances.
It was Sugar Minott who first noticed him and let Jackie appear on his sound Youthman Promotion. Soon, Knockshot was also contacted by Jammy, who had him lick sound effects for his own sound system.

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3 months ago | [YT] | 71

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

My next video release features the Master of Ceremonies (MC) who dominated the Jamaican entertainment industry in the 1980s and early 1990s. Two are deceased, Basil "Bagga" Brown and Barrington "Barry G" Gordon, may their souls rest in eternal peace.
These two great men were close friends of mine, and I enjoyed the privilege of videotaping them on many entertainment occasions and interacting with them in meaningful ways. Their exuberant delivery and charismatic personalities made them two of Jamaica's great broadcasters.
The video also gives a lot of historical information, visually and verbally, about entertainment happenings and lifestyles during that period.

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3 months ago | [YT] | 46

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

Coming next. "Tribute To Bogle" - Grizzly Cat f/ Angel Doolas. Another rare 1990s music video.

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3 months ago | [YT] | 58

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

This is one of the rare 1990s music videos I post from time to time. Power Man was very popular in Jamaica's 1990s dancehall scene.
Power Man is the stage name of Michael Davey, a veteran Jamaican reggae and dancehall deejay. He is known for several 1990s dancehall hits and continues to release music.
Born in Waterhouse, Kingston, Jamaica.
He is widely recognized for 90s anthems such as "Stone," "Gal a Call Me Name," and "Statue".Active since the late 1980s and 1990s, he has released numerous singles and albums over the decades, including contemporary releases.

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3 months ago | [YT] | 21

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

Black Scorpio & Stereo Mars (80s) / Exodus & Metromedia (90s). What a difference a decade makes!

Listen to the sweet '80s '90 sound system juggling as I highlight some of the differences in the dancehall sound system world in those decades.
I am old enough and experienced enough to share some of what has taken place from the 70s to the present.

Between 1970 and 1974, I attended many dances at different dancehall "lawns" (usually a domestic yard with space); the first of which was listening to Sir George the Atomic at a popular lawn located at 132 Red Hills Road. After that, I had the privilege to listen to and with full joy many more sound systems, including King Tubby's, Tipper Tone, Emperor Faith, and Stur Garv. The main emphasis of the sound system in that decade was the heavy bass and clarity of the "top end" speakers, the new dubs (specials/exclusives) played by the selector/toaster, which was used to stamp that sound's ability to "kill" other sound systems, and, of course, the man and woman rub-a-dubbing. Police raiding the dancehall "lawns" regularly, beating and locking up patrons, was also common.

In the 80s, there were marked differences in the sound system presentation, as the sound system business became more commercial, and many more sound systems appeared, owned by music producers and studio owners. King Jammys and Black Scorpio were two such sound systems.

In the 90s, the commercialization of sound systems continued with owners using them to promote their new songs and their artists. Sound system music mixing was minimal, and toasting/chatting on the microphone was more prominent. However, some really great music, like in the 80s, was made in the 90s, and that brought a lot of joy to patrons. The "lawns' disappeared, and more commercial venues were now being used to host the sound systems.
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Sound systems are an important part of Jamaican culture and history. Sound clashes involve crew members from opposing sound systems pitting their DJing and MCing skills against each other in venues.

The sound system concept first became popular in the 1940s, in the parish of Kingston. DJs would load up a truck with a generator, turntables, and huge speakers and set up street parties. Tom the Great Sebastian, founded by Chinese-Jamaican businessman Tom Wong, was the first commercially successful sound system and influenced many sound systems that came later. In the beginning, the DJs played American rhythm and blues music, but as time progressed and more local music was created, the sound migrated to a local flavour. Sound systems were big business and were one of the few sure ways to make money in the unstable economy of the area. The promoter or DJ made profits by charging admission and selling food and alcohol, with often thousands of people in attendance.

By the mid-1950s, the sound system was more popular at parties than live musicians. By the second half of the decade, custom-built systems began to appear from the workshops of specialists such as Hedley Jones, who constructed wardrobe-sized speaker cabinets that he called "House[s] of Joy". As time progressed, sound systems became louder—capable of playing bass frequencies at 30,000 watts or more, with similar wattage attainable at the mid-range and high frequencies—and far more complex than their predecessors. Competition between these sound systems was fierce, and eventually three DJs emerged as the stars of the scene: Clement "Coxsone" Dodd, Duke Reid, and King Edwards. Besides the DJ, who rapped over the music, there was also a selector, who selected the music/rhythm tracks.

The popularity of a sound system was mainly contingent on one thing: having new music. To circumvent the release cycle of the American record labels, the sound system operators turned to record production. Initially, they produced only singles for their own sound systems, known as "Exclusives" or Dubplates—a limited run of one copy per song. What began as an attempt to replicate the American R&B sound using local musicians evolved into a uniquely Jamaican musical genre: ska. This shift was due partly to the fact that, as American-style R&B was embraced by a largely white, teenage audience and evolved into rock and roll, sound system owners created—and played—a steady stream of the singles the people preferred: fast-shuffle boogies and ballads. In response to this shift in supply, Jamaican producers introduced to their work some of the original elements of the Jamaican sound: rhythm guitars strumming the offbeat and snare-drum emphasis on the third beat, for example. As this new musical form became more popular, both Dodd and Reid began to move more seriously into music production. Coxsone Dodd's production studio became the famous Studio One, while Duke Reid founded Treasure Isle.

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3 months ago | [YT] | 40

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

September/October are rainy months in Jamaica. Lots of lightning and thunder right now. The price for ground provisions usually goes up this time of the year as the rain creates havoc with farming.

4 months ago | [YT] | 16

Llewellyn "BigDaddyLeo" O'Reggio - Video Library

Sincere thanks to all who have supported my grandson's song; I ask that those who have not yet done so do so. Remember, he is also on Instagram and YouTube. One Love!

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