Veteran DJ calls for preservation of sound system culture

New York-based sound system operator Collin 'Puma' Abrahams is calling on the Jamaican Government and members of the local music fraternity to do everything possible to preserve the sound system culture which originated in Jamaica during the late 1960s.

"It's sad to see that the sound system culture is slowly dying in the place where it was born. Right now, it is more popular in places like Europe, Japan, the States and the UK. We are the originators and the creators of this culture, and we should not allow it to die," said Abrahams.

The Kingston-born selector, who is the owner of the highly rated LP International sound system, said the Night Noise Abatement Act has forced many people who used to organise events featuring sound systems to stop, because the police always show up to turn off the sound systems.

"This kind of behaviour from the police has forced many sound system owners to quit the business," he said. He also called for greater cooperation between sound system operators and the Government.

"I believe if the Government sat down and have dialogue with the sound system operators, they could come up with a solution to the issues that are hampering the progress of the sound systems."

Abrahams founded LP International shortly after arriving in New York in 1982. Today it is recognised as one of the most lethal clash sounds in the business, having battled all the other giants, including Bass Odyssey, King Addies, Mighty Crown and Killamanjaro.

"We've been playing music and entertaining people worldwide for over 40 years, which is no small achievement. All the accolades and awards that we've received throughout the years are nothing compared to our longevity in the business. Yet still, we remain passionate about playing for the fans, and keeping the culture alive and educating the younger generation about it," he said.

In August, Abrahams and the rest of the LP crew, which includes Killa D and Junior Killah, delivered a masterful performance at the Jamaica Festival of Sounds in Santa Cruz, St Elizabeth.

Before leaving the island, they also played at the weekly Rub A Dub Thursday event in Kingston.

LP's next big assignment will take place when they play at World Bash alongside Bass Odyssey, David Rodigan, Killamanjaro, Soul Supreme and Mighty Crown at Amazura Night Club in New York on November 24.