If you were alive and clubbing in the boroughs during the 1980s and ’90s, there’s a good chance you encountered advertisements for a “sound clash.” If you were fortunate enough to be near hotspots like Flatbush, Jamaica, or Wakefield, you may have experienced the wild, bombastic, and occasionally dangerous dancehall parties that have since become legendary.
Originating in Jamaica in the late ’70s, dancehall found its second home in New York—specifically in central Brooklyn—during the ’80s and ’90s. Characterized by faster beats and a more digital sound than its reggae predecessor, dancehall relies on instrumental “riddim” tracks that form the foundation for toasters to sing and chat over. At parties and festivals, massive sound systems blast dancehall music, with competing sounds battling for supremacy in epic clashes akin to rap battles.
The Importance of Flyers
“It’s hard to explain to somebody who wasn’t there,” says DJ, MC, and producer Walshy Fire, one half of the Grammy-winning group Major Lazer. “To experience the level of danger, the level of fashion, the flyness. To see people floss at a time when flossing was never a thing, to see floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall speakers … Thankfully, we have the flyers.”
Walshy grew up in Kingston’s Half Way Tree neighborhood, a hub for legendary dancehall clubs and sounds. His new project, a book titled The Art Of Dancehall, is born from his collection of dancehall flyers that span decades and continents. The flyers showcase the culture’s broad influence, highlighting local New York crews like Earth Ruler, LP International, and Emperor Hi-Power, who clashed with each other and hosted live appearances by Jamaican superstars like Capleton, Buju Banton, Super Cat, Shaggy, and Bounty Killer.
The Evolution of Dancehall in New York
New York’s dancehall scene wasn’t limited to legendary clubs; it thrived in basements and makeshift venues like barbershops and plazas. “You had to kind of graduate” to the Biltmore, Starlite Ballroom, or Act Three, Walshy recalls. “Those were the arenas. That’s when you knew you made it.”
The Biltmore era is mythical not only for its epic clashes but also for its diverse audience and formidable crews. “There’s King Addies and LP International, Earth Ruler and Soul Supreme, and then you go over to the Bronx with Downbeat, Stereo Five, and Young Hawk. In Harlem, you find Firgo Digital and others. Every sound was on the level,” says Walshy. “In the ’90s, you can’t compare it; it was like everything was happening in a mecca format.”
The dancehall scene developed alongside hip-hop’s golden age, influencing artists like KRS-One, Busta Rhymes, and Wyclef Jean. The Notorious B.I.G., the child of Jamaican immigrants, even did a dub plate for LP International Sound System. “Kool Herc was very influential because he brought that trademark from Jamaica: the sound system,” Major explains. “Hip-hop integrated, but we never really integrated that much.”
The Risks of Dancehall Culture
While the music scene was vibrant, it could also be violent. “There were bottles thrown, garbage cans on fire, and gunshots,” Major recalls of a 1992 clash. “We valued life, but honestly … we didn’t.” Walshy describes dancehall in the ’90s as still underground and dangerous, where one literally risked their life for music.
Dancehall Today
Today, the atmosphere is calmer and more respectful. Crews that once clashed now support each other’s events. Dancehall as a genre has moved into the mainstream, with parties on yachts and artists like Sean Paul packing clubs. Spice, the “Queen of Dancehall,” boasts over 5 million Instagram followers. Dancehall now shares space with hip-hop, Afrobeats, and other sounds of the diaspora at club nights across the city.
In New York, dancehall culture remains vibrant, with everything from traditional parties to DJ nights. Fire Sundays, hosted by Hot 97’s Bobby Konders and Jabba of Massive B soundsystem, is one of the longest-running dancehall parties in the city. Founded in 2007, Rice and Peas is a project of Max Glazer of Federation Sound, DJ Maya, Orijahnal Vibez, and the late Micro Don. In Manhattan, Sattama Sundays has been bringing dancehall, Afrobeats, and reggae to the masses since 2003, while Yard N Abroad takes place weekly at Miss Lily’s in Alphabet City.
The Legacy of Flyers
Although flyers have evolved from print-outs to social media posts, they still hold significant value among enthusiasts. “It’s really like a treasure,” Major reflects. “I collect flyers so my kids can see that I had importance and contributed to such a major platform.”
Conclusion
The dancehall scene in New York is a testament to the genre’s enduring influence and evolution. With a rich history rooted in community and creativity, it continues to thrive, showcasing the resilience and passion of its fans and artists alike. As we move forward, it’s clear that dancehall will remain a vital part of New York’s cultural landscape, celebrating its past while embracing the future. Stay tuned for more insights into the vibrant dancehall culture, and don’t miss the chance to be part of this dynamic scene!
