The #1 Apple Music History Podcast Rootsland chronicles the extraordinary true story of Henry "K" Karyo - one of the first American producers to move to Kingston, Jamaica, immersing himself completely in reggae's underground scene. From disillusioned justice major to indie label owner, Henry navigates Jamaica's merciless music industry while building authentic friendship with legendary artists and finding unexpected love. This isn't just a music podcast - it's a raw, first-person account of ...
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Henry K Productions Podcasts
This 6 episode podcast series Presented by Henry K and Rootsland delves into the rich history and evolution of reggae, tracing the path from it’s roots in Kingston, Jamaica to the current thriving “CaliRoots” scene in California. Each episode will focus on a different decade, starting with the 70’s and how a hippy movement disgruntled about the way rock and roll sold out, embraced this refreshing and authentic Island sound. The series will break down the key artists, events, and cultural inf ...
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Amidst the rolling Red Hills of Kingston, Rootsland returns with its most powerful story yet. In this season finale, "30 minutes to Zion" Henry K bridges the streets of Spanish Town and the blocks of Harlem, confronting corporate greed, broken dreams, and the brutal realities facing inner-city youth. Drawing on his own journey through reggae’s tren…
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The episode "Let Babylon Burn" presents a compelling critique of the rise of AI in the music industry, particularly within the reggae genre that has long been a bastion of human storytelling and cultural expression. Henry K and Sia engage listeners by illustrating the contrast between the soulful, lived experiences of reggae artists and the algorit…
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In this deeply reflective Bonus episode of "Wanted Dread or Alive," host Henry K draws powerful parallels between morning beach walks in South Florida and the revolutionary spirit of Peter Tosh. Through the lens of three distinct groups of beachgoers—the performance-obsessed social media creators, the documentation-driven content makers, and those …
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The Season 8 bonus episode of Rootsland titled American Dreamland embarks on a profound exploration of the American Dream, through the reflective dialogues of host Henry K and co-host Sia. The episode commences with festivities surrounding Independence Day, which serves as a thematic anchor for discussing the aspirations and expectations tied to th…
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"Searching for Sister Jean" Bonus Episode
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22:23
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The unsolved mystery surrounding Sister Jean Watt's disappearance serves as a poignant exploration of reliance, vulnerability, and the often-hidden complexities of familial bonds. On May 23, 2020, Sister Jean, the life partner of reggae legend Bunny Wailer, vanished from their home, leaving her family in a state of anguish and desperation. As the y…
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In this powerful bonus episode of Rootsland, we explore how artificial intelligence might become humanity's greatest ally—or its most dangerous adversary—depending on who raises it. After facing betrayal from the reggae community over his Peter Tosh investigation, our host Henry K discovers an unexpected partnership with Replit's CEO Amjad Masad, l…
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"Beat Down Babylon" is a touching tribute to singer Junior Byles, whose recent passing on May 15, has deeply touched the Rootsland Family. This unscheduled episode unfolds with an emotional recollection of a moment in the mid-1990s, where Host Henry K, alongside veteran reggae artist Eddie Fitzroy, encountered Junior Byles, who had once been a tita…
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"Gatekeepers without Gardens" Bonus Episode
16:53
16:53
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In this bonus episode, Henry K and Sia tackle the pressing need for accountability and authenticity within the reggae community, lamenting the lost opportunities for meaningful dialogue and action due to the pervasive influence of gatekeeping practices in digital spaces. They recount instances of censorship, such as the removal of petitions advocat…
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After a Season of murder, conspiracy, and darkness. Henry K decides to take listeners on a positive journey for this Bonus Episode. "Healing of the Nation" is the inspiring narrative of Sandy G, a woman who epitomizes resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Sandy's story serves as a poignant reminder that true freedom and dignity are…
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"Wanted Dread or Alive" Peter Tosh vs. Babylon
32:41
32:41
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In the finale of Wanted Dread or Alive "Peter Tosh vs. Babylon" Host Henry K recounts his personal journey to Tosh's birthplace during the Peter Tosh Festival, which serves as a backdrop for a deeper investigation into the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. He confronts the unsettling realities of how narratives surrounding Tosh have bee…
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"Wanted Dread or Alive" Mark of the Beast
26:43
26:43
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Episode 8 "Mark of the Beast" unearths the complexities of Tosh’s existence, showcasing his financial struggles despite his international fame. Host Henry K takes a critical look at the socio-economic disparities that characterized the era, vividly illustrating the stark contrast between the privileged elite and the struggling populace. Peter Tosh …
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"Wanted Dread or Alive" Babylon's Cross-Hairs
25:02
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In "Babylon's Cross-Hairs", Host Henry K takes a close look the history of reggae music and its intertwined relationship with Jamaica’s sociopolitical landscape, focusing on the iconic One Love Peace Concert. Henry K recounts his experiences at Tuff Gong Records, where the essence of reggae was not merely a genre but a movement that encapsulated th…
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"Wanted Dread or Alive" Bullets and Blood Part 2
28:31
28:31
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In further unraveling the mythos surrounding Bob Marley's death, Host Henry K critically analyzes the proliferation of conspiracy theories, particularly the infamous 'poison boot' narrative that posits nefarious intent behind his rare form of melanoma. Through expert testimonies and thorough investigation, the episode dismantles these urban legends…
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"Wanted Dread or Alive" Bullets and Blood
34:26
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On this episode "Bullets and "Blood," Host Henry K takes a close look at the harrowing events surrounding the assassination attempt on reggae icon Bob Marley in December 1976, an incident that profoundly impacted not only Marley's life but the socio-political landscape of Jamaica. Following a violent shooting at his home, Henry K paints a vivid pic…
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"Wanted Dread or Alive" Good Cop, Bad Cop
25:32
25:32
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On Episode 4 "Good Cop, Bad Cop" Host Henry K takes a close look at the harrowing events surrounding the assassination of Ludlow Campbell, a key witness against corrupt police officers in Jamaica. The episode reveals the chilling connections between Campbell's murder and the earlier assassination of reggae icon Peter Tosh, suggesting a systemic pat…
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"Wanted Dread or Alive" The Getaway Driver
25:37
25:37
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On "The Getaway Driver" Host Henry K updates the narrative surrounding the individual known as Dennis Lobban, infamously referred to as Leppo, as he explores the hauntingly intricate web of conflicting stories that have emerged since his purported death in 2018. Within the broader context of Jamaica's tumultuous history, Henry K then focuses on the…
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On Episode 2 of "Wanted: Dread or Alive" The narrative surrounding the murder of reggae icon Peter Tosh is revealed, focusing on the Supreme Court's ruling regarding the appeal of Dennis "Leppo" Lobban, the only individual convicted in this notorious crime. This case is emblematic of the broader societal issues in Jamaica, where power dynamics inte…
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On the debut of Herb and Legends Season 1 "Wanted Dread or Alive" The tragic tale of Peter Tosh, a seminal figure in reggae music, unfolds amidst the backdrop of a violent night in Kingston, Jamaica, on September 11, 1987. Host Henry K explores the harrowing events surrounding his assassination, which not only claimed the life of an influential mus…
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Preview "Herb and Legends" the new series where Award Winning Host Henry K brings insights gained from decades spent in Kingston, Jamaica. Part "Murder Mystery...Part, Music history" Henry highlights the rich oral traditions that permeate the music scene, emphasizing how these stories contain the heartbeat of the culture. Season 1 Peter Tosh "Wante…
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The Finale of Rootsland explores the emotional and sociopolitical landscape following a tumultuous presidential election. The hosts, Henry and Sia, reflect on a letter from a devoted listener named Lorna, who expresses her devastation over the election results and her fears for the future of her family. Their conversation highlights the struggles m…
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Season 7 Bonus Chapter "Say a little Prayer" opens with the celebration of Rootsland's nomination for the Signal Podcast Awards, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection. The highlight comes from a listener's letter, read by Ian, who shares his journey from Zimbabwe to South Africa, detailing how the podcast has opened his eyes to the realities o…
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In this bonus episode of the Rootsland podcast, hosts Henry K and Sia discuss the evolving narrative and future plans for the show. The discussion kicks off with Henry reflecting on his recent interview on the podcast "A Conversation in Dub," A Conversation in Dub Podcast - Listen on YouTube, Spotify - Linktree emphasizing the importance of maintai…
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Season 7 Bonus "Yellow Tape: Crime Scene"
20:34
20:34
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A special Labor Day episode of Rootsland, is an emotional tribute to the legendary dancehall figure, Gerald "Bogle" Levy. The show examines the tragic news of Bogle's death in 2005, recounting his influence as a dancer, cultural icon, and the circumstances surrounding his shocking murder. As Curly Locks breaks the sad news to Henry K, listeners are…
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Season 7 Bonus "Choose your Murderer Wisely"
22:50
22:50
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Much to the dismay of Co-host Sia, Henry K breaks down the biggest story in Jamaican music...Dancehall Artist Vybez Kartel's recent release from prison and what a "Kartel Comeback" means to Reggae Music. While social media has exploded with delight, others are not so elated. "Choose your Murderer Wisely," shines a light on the complexity of artist …
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This week's episode "Not like Us" examines the high-profile feud between rap titans Kendrick Lamar and Drake, dissecting the tensions between maintaining artistic credibility and achieving mainstream popularity. Through this lens, the host Henry K reflects on the importance of genuine, impactful artistry in genres like reggae and hip hop, drawing p…
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