NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2025 10 RADIO JAMAICA 75TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE | THE SUNDAY GLEANER | AUGUST 31, 2025 IN THE early days of Radio Jamaica, visionary pioneer Hol Plummer recognised the potential to revolutionise how music was presented on the airwaves. Moving away from the traditional format where afternoon disc jockeys would introduce songs and provide artist information, Plummer envisioned a new approach for overnight and weekend music programming. His innovative idea was to create an uninterrupted stream of music, a continuous mix that would capture the energy and vibe of a dance or party. Under his guidance, this concept evolved into what we now know as the art of the selector – a seamless blend of tracks that keeps listeners engaged and entertained without interruption. This groundbreaking approach became a signature of Radio Jamaica, transforming the station’s musical landscape. For generations, Radio Jamaica’s virtuosos have been the heartbeat of celebrations, weaving timeless classics with the freshest hits to ignite dance oors and living rooms alike. With every set, they have created more than music; they have built memories, leaving an unforgettable imprint on both the station’s legacy and Jamaica’s cultural soundscape. PLAY MI SELECTOR The evolution of music on Radio Jamaica Byron Lee & The Dragonaires (circa 1960) gaining international recognition. Jamaican music began to make its mark on the global stage, appearing in lms like Dr. No, the rst James Bond movie, and a series of beach movies. Radio Jamaica played a crucial role in this transition, providing a platform for these new sounds and helping artists and producers gain wider acceptance and boost their live performance earnings. Radio Jamaica’s in uence was instrumental in popularising pioneers like The Paragons, The Wailers, The Maytals, Prince Buster, and Derrick Morgan. The station’s top 10 chart and hit parade became vital in validating and promoting artists’ success. DJs such as Dottie Dean, Winston Williams, Don Topping, and Marie Garth fuelled a frenzy of afternoon listening that extended well beyond the 1960s. This tradition continues with modern DJs like Barry G, Richie B, and The Too Live Crew, who remain in uential in showcasing new music. Morning shows, with personalities like Alan Magnus, played a signi cant role in determining which songs would become hits. Interviews with international stars, including Ben E. King, Chuck Jackson, King Floyd, and The Mighty Sparrow, introduced Jamaican audiences to global talent. MUSIC CONTINUED FROM 9 Moving away from the traditional format where afternoon disc jockeys would introduce songs and provide artist information, Plummer envisioned a new approach for overnight and weekend music programming. Morning shows, with personalities like Alan Magnus, played a signi cant role in determining which songs would become hits. Interviews with international stars, including Ben E. King, Chuck Jackson, King Floyd, and The Mighty Sparrow, introduced Jamaican audiences to global talent.
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