How Jamaica Conquered the World

The small island of Jamaica has forged a new type of empire, an intangible realm of which there are no physical monuments. There is no official political or economic sphere of Jamaican influence but when it comes to popular culture its global reach is immense, far exceeding the reasonable expectation for a nation of just over 2.7 million people. For a nation that gained independence from the British only 50 years ago, Jamaicans have left their mark on music, sport, style and language around the globe and have become an international marker of ‘cool’. Jamaican music has colonised the new and old world alike, its athletes break world records with impunity and youngsters the world over are incorporating Jamaican slang into their dialects. Despite this the country has reaped no economic reward in return, unlike empires of old, and Jamaica still remains an economic pygmy. Jamaican influence has unconsciously spawned creative innovation around the globe and to this day it remains a country to be studied, celebrated, and demystified. Through the help of linguists, artists, musicians, designers, sports personalities, and historians we take a closer look as to how Jamaican culture conquered the world.

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Recent Reviews

Lucy_Lulu_Lucia

A treasure!

The program deftly pinpoints key moments in Jamaica’s cultural history, exploring the layered realities behind each. I appreciate Brown’s commitment to filling a much-needed gap in the podcast landscape! I searched for this program while reading Marlon James’ “A Brief History of Seven Killings,” which piqued my curiosity as an American who knew shamefully little of Jamaica’s history. As Brown shows us, the island’s influence reaches much further than I had realized!!! Clearly a labor of love that deserves listening — bravo, Mr. Brown and guests!
DJ Tomas/Umoja Sound

Essneital Listenting!

This podcast covers the worldwide influence of Jamacian culture from every angle with a uniquely authentic and informative voice. I appreciate that it's detailed but not high-brow -- you can be new to JA culture, from the island, or just a passionate enthiasts and you will enjoy the topics presented. I'll admit I'm biased as some of my revered music artists are interviewed -- Tippa Irie, King Jammy, Steelie and Cleavie to name a few, but the cultural and hsitorical perspectives are also crucial.
Timizle

Bitter sweet

Though my comments are several years late; it is worth great pleasure that I'm doing so now. This podcast series is fascinating, well researched and spans the globe; both culturally and geographically. I will undoubtedly be sharing and replaying these episodes. The absolute joy and elation that I experienced while listening to this podcast can not be kept to myself. Thank you for your work.
TempuraSparkle

Big up yourself

This podcast is amazing
Melissa T Rockridge

Learning a lot

Like most Americans I didn't know much about Jamaica other than Usain Bolt, Cool Runnings and reggae. This podcast has taught me about the cultural legacy that the island has given the world and proves that it is more than just famous printers and reggae artists.
Gossamer_Wings

Labor of love

Interesting topic. Sometimes the episodes are a bit confusing for those who have limited information about Jamaica.
Ben0108816

A great listen

This is a truely unique podcast. From the content to the production to the format, there is nothing else out there like this. A truely great podcast.
mill43

Love it

I learn a lot of culture
Tom Thurber

Excellent Series

Listening to this series is a great way to learn about the history of Jamaican music and its major artists. I learned a lot and really enjoyed the music.
Shyam13

Mad Editing Skills

This show is an audiophile's dream come true - likely as well produced/mixed as radiolab and 99% invisible - however it is slightly less educational - it gives up on pedagogy but makes up for it in visceral sound bytes, appropriate samples or sound and music. Edutainment well done!
NomdeGuerra

Fun Show

The content of the show is very thought provoking and well researched. The presentation is comparable or better than any documentary put out by the major networks. I can't wait for more.
Ken_Yeezy

Reppin’ well

Love the stories and production.
elrondisabamf

Very interesting!

This is a wonderful podcast with nicely edited music interwoven with interviews from musicians, academics, athletes, and many more people with connections to Jamaica all over the globe. I knew very little about Jamaica before listening to this series and am really glad I stumbled on it. I knew that reggae had a lot of influence on modern music, but I didn’t realize HOW much until this podcast came into my life.
macseann

Amazing and unique soundscape

I'm totally loving your show. I truly think what you are doing is so unique and i'm just blown away by the soundscape you've created. I'm slowly catching up, but i've learned so much about not just Jamaica, but about much of what I take for granted about popular culture. I spent an entire morning ignoring conference calls I was on and reading about DJ Kool Herc and toasting. The Collin Powell episode is truly one of the most fascinating podcasts I've ever listened to. Keep doing what you are doing, sir!
horsedaddy70

Well done

Pretty good podcast. Didn't know about all the other Japan Sounds. I have been there and they love reggae and black culture in general. Though it seems that traditionalists suppress it.
tenosmith

Superb

Excellent podcast series, I just discovered it, and I am eagerly anticipating the next episode. I often say to my American friends, that China has a billion people, Jamaica has a few millions. But who's culture is more influential. Likkle but wi tallawah!
omaripili

Brilliant and Informative

Any content that educates, entertain, makes you feel good and even shocks you at time is considered to be top quality in my book. I admire the work, and encourage the mission to keep going. Aluta Continua
Likel Pikiny

Jamaican documentary

As a 1st generation Jamaican-American I have always enjoyed hearing and learning about my culture that I am so proud of. This podcast episode was very informative. I hope it get the support and funding need so others can also enjoy.......continue the good work.
Cfrizzle121

Amazing summary !!!!

I am a Jamaican native born in 1990. I left the country in 98' for the US and forgot much of my history. I was in Jamaica last year from July 22- August 13. The energy and vybz in the country from the Olympic victories to emancipation and Independence Day was amazing!! I left Jamaica with so many mixed emotions and questions on my mind. I got into researching about our history and came across this podcast. I fell In love with the wealth of information and followed it for a few months until there was a brief break in updates. I would recommend for anyone native or non native to listen these podcast if they want to learn about the country. The information is supplemented very well with guest speakers who were there, so it is first hand experience. I am still currently following How Jamaica Conquered The World and very excited to see where this goes in the future.
BeccaEller

Love it!!

I heard about this show and found it when I was bored. . . I wish I had found it sooner! It's fun and entertaining and well worth the download, plus I thing Roi has the most amazing voice and I could listen to him for hours.
Marleyfan64

All Encompassing podcast

I started on this podcast out of musical interest in Bob Marley & the Wailers, but have learned so much more since listening. I've picked up new and broader musical tastes, and enjoyed the history and the many guest speakers. The length is just right, about 20 minutes each, and I went through the series quickly. I do hope it will continue!
Jah Thomas

Inspiring Historical Collaboration

I am married to a "Yardee" for many years. Have travelled to Ja. many times. Always a great time even with all the trouble on this little island. What an influential group of people. I have travelled all over the world and have met many "Yardees". I never feel judged by Jamaicans. I am accepted by them as I am therefore many of my long-lasting friendships are with Jamaicans.
UomoUniversale

Just finished the New York episode

Outstanding episode! I am a first generation American, born and raised in the NY area, so this episode really struck a chord with me. Both parents from Kingston, and I am trying to get them to start subscribing themselves. Really enjoying the podcast and looking forward to more. You are doing a great thing for the Diaspora.
CycloneFarmBoy

A Must Listen!

Roifield Brown takes me back to my youth while educating me about topics that were both familiar and foreign to me. As a child growing up in farm country, I was first introduced to Bob Marley in the 70's while in college. I instantly feel in love with his music. But so many parts of reggae were missing to me as I was not a student of Jamaican history and culture. Roifield has helped fill in those gaps with his unique story-telling ability. I must admit I often find myself listening to older episodes again as I impatiently wait for the next download. I heartily recommend this podcast series!
Dhart#24

Enjoying the podcast

Thank you so much for the great work on this series. The interviews, music and the different story lines keep me coming back for more. I am looking forward to enjoying the next episode!
Godztrini

Enlightening

The first time I saw Mighty Crown play, I was a fan. This is insightful to learn how the music influenced Japan. Bob Marley answered his calling.
Sonoscan2

Cookup girl 59

This is such a great podcast. I loved each and every one of these. It was very informative and very well documented information. I throughly enjoyed listening to the actual people that were part of the history making and the conquering of the world by Jamaica. I have no known Jamaican ancestry, but I do have some of the other islands ancestry, and I'm very proud of what Jamaica has done for, and with, the Caribbean diaspora.
CydeWeyz

Listened To the whole thing at work today

Excellent series
We.all.need.love.

Great podcast

I am a lover of history and I love to learn about about other cultures. This podcast has allowed me to learn more about my own Jamaican culture. I highly recommend this podcast to Jamaicans and non-Jamaicans who want to learn about the small island with the big impact!
commonguy22

Self-study after study-abroad

I did a semester study-abroad program in Kingston twenty-some years ago and while I learned a lot about the various cultures which made up Jamaica, spent very little time considering the impact of Jamaicans abroad. This is a great way to fill-in that part of the story.
Supertroy1974

Not your standard history podcast

Let's just be upfront with the strength of this podcast, it's not like other History Podcasts. Where another history podcast would be content with a storytelling format, al la THOR or similar podcast, HJCTW blends storytelling, music and rhythm into one seamless aural experience. The only downside here is that it's a limited podcast and a rather short scheduled run at that. This however should not ward you off, your ears deserve a treat.
Hollyrunsgoofy

Great show

This is a very good podcast. Well produced, paced very well, and the topics naturally present themselves. I never knew Lovers Rock was a London invention. The accompanying website is full of nice content and worth browsing. @teamtizzel
DiGrifter

Wow!

Great series! I'm learning so much, and I am a Jamaican. Thanks for the great work.
INFOWARS48

Chaa

Wheres the MUSIC?????? All talk no tunes
Willoughby

Love reggae/rocksteady/lover rock/etc? You need this podcast!

These podcasts are brilliant. Roifield Brown has done a spectacular job of capturing insights on the music of Jamaica, as well as other parts of Jamaican culture and sport. I've learned a lot and feel like I pick up something new each time I listen! I'd definitely recommend subscribing!
KrisGilbertson.com

Phenomenal Jamaican Stories woven with The Music of Jamaica!

Wow . . . this is a fantastic podcast that covers the scope of Jamaica's colorful history. Roifield Brown and other world personalities bring their perspective and commentary on key historical events that shaped the culture. They all share stories on specific Jamaican events that changed their life and showcase the rise of Jamaican throughout the past 50 years! Amazing job . . . A+++. . . . can't wait for more episodes!
the_other_wayne_marshall

fascinating portraits of JA music & culture

I may be somewhat biased as a featured voice in these podcasts, but speaking as a scholar of Jamaican music and its travels, I find this series to be a fascinating and rich portrait of Jamaican culture in the modern era. Some real gems of oral history here, especially when Roifield brings in the voices of legendary practitioners and producers, as well as longtime devotees in the diaspora. These are also snappily produced and easily consumed. Well worth your time.

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