Dub Store Records

Dub Store Records: A Journey Through Roots Reggae

Dub Store Records, founded by the legendary Lee “Scratch” Perry, is a Jamaican record label that has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of reggae music. From its inception in 1973, Dub Store has been synonymous with the “dub” genre, characterized by its heavy basslines, echo-laden vocals, and expansive sound.

The King of Dub: Perry, a visionary producer and musician, infused his signature sonic mastery into Dub Store’s releases, crafting intricate sound collages that pushed the boundaries of reggae. His innovative techniques involved manipulating and reworking existing reggae tracks, creating new dimensions of sound that became instantly recognizable as “Dub Store”.

Echoes of Genius: Notable Dub Store releases include “Super Ape” by The Upsetters, a classic dub album that showcased Perry’s genius in manipulating and twisting reggae instrumentation. Other iconic tracks include “Dreadlocks in Moonlight”, “Blackboard Jungle Dub”, and “Disco Devil”, all featuring Perry’s signature “dub” sound.

Beyond the Dub: While Dub Store is best known for its dub productions, Perry also released numerous reggae tracks under the label, showcasing his diverse musical talents. “People Funny Boy”, a satirical commentary on societal hypocrisy, and “Return of the Super Ape”, a powerful anthem of resistance, are just two examples of Perry’s versatility.

A Family of Artists: Dub Store Records wasn’t solely a platform for Perry’s own music. It served as a springboard for other talented artists, including The Upsetters, Junior Byles, and Max Romeo. These collaborations resulted in memorable tracks like “Dreadlocks in Moonlight” (Junior Byles) and “War Ina Babylon” (Max Romeo), further expanding the label’s influence.

Legacy of Influence: Dub Store Records’ legacy extends far beyond its own releases. The label’s sound and production techniques have inspired countless musicians, including The Wailers, King Tubby, and Scientist, who all explored similar sonic territories, establishing “dub” as a distinct genre.

Sounding the Future: Though Perry’s influence remains strong, Dub Store Records continues to release music, showcasing a new generation of artists who are keeping the legacy alive. The label’s future remains vibrant, promising exciting new sounds and innovations that will continue to inspire and shape the future of reggae music.

Similar Artists:

• King Tubby
• Scientist
• Augustus Pablo
• The Wailers
• King Jammy

Friends and Collaborators:

• The Upsetters
• Junior Byles
• Max Romeo
• The Wailers
• Bob Marley

Dub Store Records stands as a testament to Lee “Scratch” Perry’s creativity and the enduring power of dub music. Its legacy continues to resonate through generations of musicians and listeners, reminding us of the transformative potential of sound.