As you likely are aware, Toronto has had a long and tight connection with the not-so-likkle island of Jamaica. The city has been a primary destination for Jamaican immigrants since the 1960’s, and their rich and vibrant culture is tangible. When it comes to the island’s top ranking musical export, Toronto also has deep roots.
Reggae legends lived, recorded and built lives here in Toronto. Jackie Mitoo, Leroy Sibbles, Alton Ellis, King Jammy and even the late king of lovers rock all called Toronto home at some point. (The Light In the Attic folks have been doing a bang-up job chronicling Toronto’s reggae connection with the Jamaica to Toronto and Summer Records compilations and are really worth seeking out.)
One of the record stores that cropped up in Toronto was S & W Soul King Records at 566 St Clair West, which served as a hub for the reggae community since its late 70’s…