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The Merritone story has its genesis in St Thomas in 1950 when the Blake brothers convinced their father to start the parish’s first sound system. For the past 75 years, Monte Blake has been integral in the growth of Merritone Music and has been at the helm of Merritone Music since 2016, when his brother Winston passed away.
“Seven decades later, Merritone Music still rocks steady. It is one of Jamaica’s longest-running family-owned businesses and the only continuous sound system left from the original sound system era. Merritone Music is still standing,” declared Monte, who currently leads and inspires the Merritone selectors.
Merritone was at its most popular during the 1970s when the Blakes operated Turntable Club on Red Hills Road in St Andrew. It was a hangout for well-known personalities from the corporate, political, and entertainment sectors. Merritone played a vital role in promoting Jamaican talent, hosting the Merritone VIP Talent Exposure, which launched the careers of artistes, such as Cynthia Schloss, Beresford Hammond and the Mighty Diamonds.
In a fitting tribute on Father’s Day, Dr. Monte Blake was honoured by the Ribbiz Ultra Lounge team for his integral and significant contribution to the music and entertainment industry.
1. How does it feel to be honoured by Ribbiz Ultra Lounge and on Fathers Day?
I feel quite honoured to receive this tribute and to be surrounded by so much love. It’s one of the best Fathers Day gifts ... it was just wonderful, and Ribbie is such a gracious host. It got me quite emotional. Overall, was a wonderful occasion and I felt really honoured.
2. What is your favourite memory?
Turntable Nightclub on Red Hills Road was our base and was very popular back in the day. I remember Bob Marley used to come to dance and have a good time. He would just dance and dance. It is definitely my favourite memory. Turntable was a memorable place. I have so many stories about that time and place.
3. What is your greatest achievement to date?
There have been so many accolades, but receiving the distinguished Doctor of Letters (DLitt) from The University of the West Indies, Mona campus in 2024 was a big achievement for me. This was given to me for my pioneering work in music. Another stand-out achievement would have to be the Water Lane mural. These achievements, including the honour by Ribbiz, all get me emotional.
4. How has the sound system culture changed over the years?
It has changed quite a bit. In the beginning the upper and middle classes were able to go to places like Myrtle Bank, but the poor people could not. They had to go to Torrington Bridge and to us in Morant Bay. We created a place for everyone to enjoy.
Seven decades later, Merritone Music still rocks steady. It is one of Jamaica’s longest-running family-owned businesses and the only continuous sound system left from the original sound system era. Merritone Music is still standing ... last sound standing since 1950. Over the years there have been so many places that can compare to what we first created, like Weddy Weddy and Marl Road.
5. Why is Merritone such a big part of the local music culture?
Winston was the first to use vinyl and tube amplifiers. He was the pioneer. We were the first to call ourselves a discotheque. Merritone became known as the place for couples and people to go. It was all about family for Merritone, playing good clean happy music that everyone loves. We started a Merritone Family event in Connecticut, now its being held in Long Island.
BRAWTA: What is your legacy?
The Merritone team includes Mickey Thompson, Craig Ross, Richie Clarke, Glen Campbell, Fernando Bogle and Jeremy Scott. My daughter, Monique Blake, and I are the directors of Merritone Music. These groomed selectors are my legacy and the legacy of Merritone.
English (US) ·