Watch Deep Roots Music 1: Revival/Ranking Sounds

Deep Roots Music 1: Revival/Ranking Sounds is a documentary film that explores the rich history of Jamaican music, tracing its roots from the early days of ska and rocksteady to the emergence of reggae and dub. The film takes viewers on a journey through the country's vibrant musical landscape, exploring the key figures that have shaped Jamaican music and the social and political contexts in which it developed.

The film is divided into two parts: Revival and Ranking Sounds. The first part, Revival, examines the role of Jamaican music in the country's spiritual and religious traditions. It focuses on the influence of Revivalism, a major Christian movement in Jamaica that blends African and Christian practices, on the country's musical culture. Viewers are introduced to the music of the Revival church, featuring powerful vocals and African rhythms that have had a profound impact on Jamaican music.

The second part of the film, Ranking Sounds, delves into the rise of reggae music and its transformation into a global cultural phenomenon. The film provides a comprehensive overview of Jamaica's music scene from the late 1960s to the present day, highlighting the key figures in the development of the country's distinctive sound. Viewers are treated to rare archival footage of performances from some of the greatest names in Jamaican music history, including Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and Jimmy Cliff.

Throughout the film, the focus is on the social and political forces that have shaped Jamaican music. The film explores the country's struggles with colonialism, racial inequality and economic hardship, and the role that music has played in giving voice to these struggles. It also features interviews with some of the most influential figures in Jamaican music history, including Bunny Lee, Coxsone Dodd, and Lee "Scratch" Perry, who share their insights and experiences of the industry.

The film is visually stunning, with beautiful landscapes and vibrant colors that capture the essence of Jamaica's musical culture. The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a wide range of music styles that reflect the diversity of the country's musical heritage.

Overall, Deep Roots Music 1: Revival/Ranking Sounds is a fascinating exploration of Jamaican music history that provides a window into the rich culture and traditions of the country. It is an essential viewing for anyone interested in the history of music, and a must-see for fans of reggae and Jamaican music.