The 411 Magazine The 411 Magazine issue 4 July/Aug 2017 | Page 59

FEATURE
Missile Sound was established in Ipswich UK in 1986 by Candy
& The Mckenzie Brothers and was built on the foundation of
Jamaican sound system culture.  With the migration of
Jamaicans to the UK in the late 50’s and 60’s the tradition of
‘Sound Systems’ followed. During the 70’s & 80’s every area of
London with a West Indian population had their own crop of
sounds.  Skippa J & his family are the driving force behind
Missile Sound.  Over the past 30 years they have held many
live events covering all genres of music, indoor & outdoor
events.  The 411's Editor, Amanda Sweeney catches up with
SkippaJ to find out more. 
Missile Sound was founded in 1986, what made you want
to start your own sound system?
A sound system back then was automatically part of our
culture. Fans follow their sound just like football
supporters follow their team, it was a movement that
mainly people from the ghetto, poorer backgrounds,
followed. I wasn't born rich, I grew up among sound
systems learning the culture so for me it was just part of
life, music chose me I didn't chose it.
Are the original crew still together?
Missile started as a family run business, a hobby, and it's
still the same today as it was back in 1986, run by the
same people.
What is it about sound system culture that you love
most?
Entertainment is a form of enjoyment.  Seeing people
enjoy themselves is what I love the most about sound
system culture.
Over the years you've hosted a number of events, is there
one that's particularly dear to your heart and why?
Reggae Dancehall Extravaganza because reggae is the
heartbeat of sound system culture, which was held in a
dance-hall arena aka on the lawn.
As a long standing sound, you've seen a lot, what are
some of the common mistakes you see made in the
culture of the sound system?
People in too much of a hurry to come up and a high level
of egos. You have to plant the seed before you can raid
the barn, walk before you can run in other words build a 
foundation and build up a strong fan base.
Being from Jamaica originally, what is the
biggest thing you miss about 'home'?
The fresh food and the sunshine
The Caribbean cultural presence is growing in
the UK, do you have any concerns about this
and if so, what do you want those who are new
to these experiences to know going in?
Well, I don't know about that! I would say
Caribbean culture in the UK is dying. Europe
seems to love Caribbean culture a lot more.
Any other items you wish the world to know
about? Anything to get off your chest?
New DJ's: if you really love the music then you
will take time out to buy the music that you say
you love instead of downloading everything. Ask
yourselves when was the last time you bought
an album?
For live events, private functions, DJ's, PA &
sound system hire go to:
www.missilesound.com
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