The Jamaican Roots of Island Records

One of the world's most influential record labels began not in London or New York, but in Jamaica. Founded in 1959, the label spent its first seven years exclusively building the foundation for global reggae and Caribbean music.

Chris Blackwell originally started the label to promote Jamaican artists, deeply influencing the international sound of the sixties. It later evolved into a powerhouse that launched legends like Bob Marley and U2. The label's transition from local island recordings to a massive global brand marks a fascinating chapter in musical history. Even after being sold to PolyGram in 1989, its legacy remained tied to its humble, vibrant beginnings.