Merritone Music, the legendary Jamaican sound system revered as “The Last Sound Standing,” is celebrating a monumental 75th anniversary, marking over seven decades of influence on global music and culture. The festivities include a series of events across Jamaica, culminating on October 25th, a date doubly significant as it is also World Merri Music Day and the birthday of Merritone’s visionary founder, Val Blake.
The Genesis of a Musical Dynasty
Merritone’s story began in the rural parish of St. Thomas, Jamaica, in 1950. Val Blake, inspired by the burgeoning sound system culture, established the Merritone Sound System. His early inclinations towards Latin music, waltz, and slow love songs laid the foundation for Merritone’s distinctively smooth and diverse musical formula, setting it apart from its contemporaries. Following Val Blake’s untimely passing in 1956, his four sons—Trevor, Winston, Tyrone, and Monte—inherited the mantle, transforming a local initiative into a formidable force in Jamaican music.
The Blake Brothers Era and Kingston’s Rhythmic Heartbeat
The move to Kingston in 1962 marked a pivotal chapter for Merritone. The Blake brothers, particularly Winston (later honored with the Order of Distinction) and Monte, steered the sound system through evolving musical landscapes, from R&B and calypso to the foundational rhythms of ska, rocksteady, and reggae. They were instrumental in making sound system culture accessible to all social classes, breaking down barriers and fostering unity through music. The establishment of The Turntable Club in Kingston in the early 1970s became a legendary hub for musical innovation and a testament to Merritone’s enduring appeal. This venue was later declared a national heritage site in 2018, underscoring its cultural importance.
“The Last Sound Standing” and World Merri Music Day
Merritone holds the unique distinction of being the only sound system founded in the original era of the 1940s and 1950s that continues to operate and thrive today. This longevity, earning it the moniker “The Last Sound Standing,” is a testament to its adaptability and unwavering commitment to quality music. To honor this incredible legacy and the broader impact of sound system culture, Monique Blake, managing director of Merritone Music, spearheaded the initiative for World Merri Music Day. Officially recognized on October 25th, this day celebrates Merritone’s contribution to music genres worldwide and serves as a global connection point for fans of the sound system.
Seventy-Five Years of Celebration and Ongoing Legacy
This year’s 75th-anniversary celebrations are a vibrant reflection of Merritone’s rich history. Festivities in Montego Bay, held from October 24th to 27th, feature Merritone DJs, a special vinyl session, a Wellness Expo, and a Craft Village. The celebrations extend to Kingston on October 30th with the Rum & Riddims Pirate Merritone Fête. Beyond the events, Merritone continues to invest in the future of music through initiatives like the Merritone Music Foundation, established in 2020 to support music education. The unveiling of the Merritone Music Blake Family Mural in Kingston’s Creative Art District in 2024 further cements their legacy, paying homage to their deep roots in the cultural landscape of Jamaica.
An Enduring Influence on Jamaican Music
Merritone’s impact on the evolution of Jamaican music is undeniable. It directly influenced the rise of ska, reggae, rocksteady, and dancehall, shaping the soundscape for generations. The music presented by Merritone has consistently provided uplifting vibes and brought people together, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. As the organization looks ahead, it remains dedicated to preserving its storied past while continuing to create new “Merri moments” that last forever. The journey that began in St. Thomas continues to resonate globally, a powerful echo of a truly pioneering Jamaican music institution.