Episode 4

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Published on:

1st Mar 2021

Chapter 4: “Ghetto Stays in the Mind”

Welcome to the vibrant and turbulent world of Kingston, Jamaica, as experienced by Henry Karyo a passionate American welcomed into the storied halls of Tuff Gong Studios, Bob Marley's record label. Guided by the iconic Bob Andy, Henry traverses the beauty and heartbreak of Jamaica while learning about its rich musical traditions and tragic social and political landscape carved out by years of colonization. The Rootsland journey continues as Henry is introduced to Tuff Gong's upcoming generation of reggae artists, and the tensions that have shaped Kingston's ghetto and garrison communities. From interactions with music legends and encounters with desperate street kids to understanding the devastating impact of historical events, this episode is a profound exploration of resilience, dreams, and the power of music.

Rootsland is produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios in Kingston, Jamaica.

Introduction by:  Michelle "Kim" Yamaguchi

Additional Voices by:  Patrick "Curly Loxx" Gaynor

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

Featured Music:  

The Yoko Theory “Meds”

Black Uhuru “Slaughter”

Bob Andy “Ghetto Stays in the Mind Dub

Legends of Reggae | Facebook

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About the Podcast

Rootsland "Stories that are Music to your ears"
A podcast about reggae, resistance, and what endures
Rootsland is a long-form storytelling podcast about music, resistance, and what remains. Hosted by Henry “K” Karyo — one of the first American producers to move to Kingston, Jamaica — the series blends first-person memoir with cultural history, tracing a journey into reggae’s underground world and far beyond it.
Set inside reggae culture but driven by human story, Rootsland explores creative survival, unlikely friendships, and the deeper truths music carries long after the noise fades. These are stories about craft, community, and memory — the things that don’t scale, can’t be optimized by algorithms, and still require us to sit still and listen.
Stories that are music to your ears.
© Henry K
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About your host

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henry karyo

Henry K: Henry K is a storyteller, creative director, and reggae enthusiast deeply integrated into the world of Jamaican music. Through his show "Rootsland," Henry shares narratives that blend music, culture, and life lessons, often drawing from his extensive experiences working with renowned artists and navigating the intricate layers of the music industry. His passion for authenticity and creative expression shines through in every episode.