The Finale of Rootsland explores the emotional and sociopolitical landscape following a tumultuous presidential election. The hosts, Henry and Sia, reflect on a letter from a devoted listener named Lorna, who expresses her devastation over the election results and her fears for the future of her family. Their conversation highlights the struggles many face in the aftermath of political shifts, emphasizing the need for community support and resilience.

Throughout the episode, the hosts draw on personal stories and broader societal themes, contextualizing Lorna's concerns within a larger narrative of civic duty and social responsibility. They stress the importance of staying engaged and not succumbing to complacency, reminding listeners that the fight for rights and freedoms requires constant vigilance. Their heartfelt discourse is interwoven with musical references, capturing the spirit of resilience that characterizes reggae culture, suggesting that music can be a powerful source of solace and empowerment in difficult times. The Season Finale concludes with a call to action, where the hosts encourage listeners to find small ways to contribute positively to their communities.

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Intro music Deadly "Headley" Bennett Independent Man 35 Years at Alpha

Everton Blender "Lift Up Your Head" Star Trail Label 45

Season 7 Bonus Chapter "Say a little Prayer" opens with the celebration of Rootsland's nomination for the Signal Podcast Awards, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection. The highlight comes from a listener's letter, read by Ian, who shares his journey from Zimbabwe to South Africa, detailing how the podcast has opened his eyes to the realities of racism and classism. Ian articulates how listening to the show has forced him to confront his own past. The hosts respond with warmth and understanding, discussing their own experiences with racism and the significance of shared humanity. They emphasize the importance of listening and learning from one another, fostering a dialogue that is both personal and socially relevant. This episode not only showcases the podcast's artistic endeavors but also serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for change that exists within each listener’s journey.

Rootsland Podcast in the Individual Episodes - Most Inspirational Podcast category. Official Listing

Rootsland Podcast in the Individual Episodes - Best Indie Podcast category. Official Listing

Voicemail | Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Intro features Jacob Miller "Mixed Up Moods"

Featured Song "I Say A Little Prayer" Biko's Manna

Biko's Manna - YouTube

In this bonus episode of the Rootsland podcast, hosts Henry K and Sia discuss the evolving narrative and future plans for the show. The discussion kicks off with Henry reflecting on his recent interview on the podcast "A Conversation in Dub," A Conversation in Dub Podcast - Listen on YouTube, Spotify - Linktree emphasizing the importance of maintaining authentic and meaningful connections in the reggae community. The hosts discuss the struggles faced by independent artists in the Jamaican music scene and their mission to uncover the next big talent. Henry and Sia elaborate on the significant barriers that emerging artists from impoverished backgrounds encounter, highlighting the systemic failures within the music industry that stifle innovation and progress. Henry pledges to shine a light on these issues through the new season's immersive and unscripted storytelling approach. The episode concludes with a passionate call to action, encouraging listeners to engage with and support the vast talent that remains hidden within Jamaica's ghettos and garrisons.

Rootsland listeners to be part of the next episode by submitting their burning questions to Voicemail | Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Intro features Jacob Miller "Mixed Up Moods"

Waling Souls "Firehouse Dub"

"Leave the Crumbs Alone" Mackie Conscious and Taddy P

the full Jack Conte Speach Death of the Follower & the Future of Creativity on the Web with Jack Conte | SXSW 2024 Keynote - YouTube

A special Labor Day episode of Rootsland, is an emotional tribute to the legendary dancehall figure, Gerald "Bogle" Levy. The show examines the tragic news of Bogle's death in 2005, recounting his influence as a dancer, cultural icon, and the circumstances surrounding his shocking murder. As Curly Locks breaks the sad news to Henry K, listeners are taken on a journey through the life and legacy of a man who defined an era in Jamaican Music and who many think was the Bob Malrey of the Dancehall genre

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Subscribe Now to Kingston to Cali Easily listen to Kingston to Cali "Reggae's Journey West" in your podcast app of choice 

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Intro features Jacob Miller "Mixed Up Moods" Buju Banton "Bogle"

Much to the dismay of Co-host Sia, Henry K breaks down the biggest story in Jamaican music...Dancehall Artist Vybez Kartel's recent release from prison and what a "Kartel Comeback" means to Reggae Music. While social media has exploded with delight, others are not so elated. "Choose your Murderer Wisely," shines a light on the complexity of artist Vybez Kartel and his hardcore band of followers.

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Subscribe Now to Kingston to Cali Easily listen to Kingston to Cali "Reggae's Journey West" in your podcast app of choice 

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Intro features Jacob Miller "Mixed Up Moods" Barrington Levy "Murderer"

This week's episode "Not like Us" examines the high-profile feud between rap titans Kendrick Lamar and Drake, dissecting the tensions between maintaining artistic credibility and achieving mainstream popularity. Through this lens, the host Henry K reflects on the importance of genuine, impactful artistry in genres like reggae and hip hop, drawing parallels to cultural appropriation issues. With references to historical and contemporary music figures, the discussion underscores the need for music that reflects real-life struggles and experiences, advocating for a balance between feel-good hits and socially conscious art. Rootsland also reflects on the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl's impact on Jamaica, highlighting the resilience of the island's people and the challenges faced, particularly in agriculture.

Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories"

Subscribe Now to Kingston to Cali Easily listen to Kingston to Cali "Reggae's Journey West" in your podcast app of choice 

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Intro features Jacob Miller "Mixed Up Moods" Drake "Hot Line Bling" Kendrick Lamar "Not Like Us" Explicit Version

The Rootsland podcast pays tribute to the late reggae legend Desi Jones, one of the most technically and musically proficient drummers in the genre's history. Host Henry K reflects on Jones's significant contributions to reggae music and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of Jamaican musicians. The episode also explores the challenges of fatherhood, with Henry sharing heartfelt stories about fathers who make sacrifices for their children and a moving tribute to a father who raised his daughter against all odds. The podcast highlights the importance of recognizing the struggles and triumphs of parenthood, urging listeners to express their feelings to loved ones while they still can. Additionally, the episode addresses the cancellation of the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival and discusses the broader issues facing the reggae industry, particularly the need to engage younger audiences with authentic roots reggae music.

Subscribe Now to Kingston to Cali Easily listen to Kingston to Cali "Reggae's Journey West" in your podcast app of choice 

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Rootsland is proud to be sponsored by Age Verification - Sunset Lake CBD

Music credits: Halfpint "One in a Million" Cat Stevens "Father and Son" Shem Thomas "Father and Son" form the Voice Switzerland

Photo: Maurice Karyo Paris circa 1956

On the Bonus Chapter of Rootsland we explore the profound significance of a mother's love, beautifully illustrated through a touching narrative shared by the host, Henry. As the episode unfolds, we hear from Sia and Henry, who celebrate Mother's Day and reflect on the deep bonds and sacrifices made by mothers. Henry recounts a poignant story about a friend, "Piano Man," whose conversation with Henry's mother reveals the warmth and affection he longed for in his own life. The episode also highlights a contest offering listeners the chance to win passes to the CaliRoots music festival underscoring the connection between reggae music and personal journeys. As a tribute to his mother and all parents, Henry shares a special rendition of an Elton John classic by reggae artist Sugar Minot, bringing the episode full circle with a message of love and gratitude.

Cali Easily listen to Kingston to Cali "Reggae's Journey West" in your podcast app of choice 

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Righteousness is a central theme that resonates throughout the episode, capturing the essence of reggae music's spiritual and cultural influence. The host, Henry K, takes listeners on a journey through the legacy of Bob Marley and the enduring power of reggae music. The breakout success of "Praise Jah in the Moonlight," performed by YG Marley, grandson of Bob Marley, is highlighted as a testament to reggae's continuing impact. The song, co-written and produced by Lauryn Hill, is celebrated for its deep message and its fusion of reggae's traditional rhythms with contemporary influences. The narrative weaves YG Marley's musical debut with Lauryn Hill's resurgence, portraying her as a formidable force reclaiming her place in the music industry. Her involvement in the song is seen as a powerful statement against the industry's past dismissals of her artistic integrity.

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Rootsland is proud to be sponsored by Age Verification - Sunset Lake CBD

Brian Jahn Brian Jahn (@brianjahnphoto) • Instagram photos and videos

featured song YG Marley Praise Jah in the Moonlight

Subscribe Now Kingston to CaliEasily listen to Kingston to Cali "Reggae's Journey West" in your podcast app of choice 

On the Season 7 Finale of "Crucifixion of the Ghetto" Henry K meets Curly Loxx's little son Zion and discovers Curly's true incentive for wanting to escape the ghetto. A call from an old friend alerts Henry K that there are people in Jamaica more dangerous than the Island's notorious Gangsters and Dons, and now is the time for him to choose sides.

Stay Tuned for an announcement regarding our New Podcast out this April

Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

Guest vocals by Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor, Steve "Bigga Staar" Briskman

Some of the Jamaican Patois has been adapted to be understood by an International Audience.

Intro by Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Home | ROOTSLAND Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise "Wear Your Culture"

Rootsland is proud to partner with Osiris Media "the leading storyteller in music." Welcome to Osiris Media - Osiris - The leading storyteller in music.

Rootsland is proud to be sponsored by Age Verification - Sunset Lake CBD

Brian Jahn Brian Jahn (@brianjahnphoto) • Instagram photos and videos

featured songs: Opening Credits: "Kingston 13 Dub" Pinchers Ossie 7"

closing credits: "Stir it Up" Bob Marley & The Wailers courtesy UMG