This panel talk delves into the rich history and profound impact of sound system culture on the city's vibrant cultural and musical landscape. Starting with its origins in Kingston, Jamaica, to its migration to New York City, the discussion will trace how these powerful musical systems, with their deep bass and massive speakers, influenced genres like reggae, hip-hop, and electronic dance music. Featuring insights from legendary DJs, musicians, and historians, the discussion highlights the evolution, technological advancements, and challenges faced by sound system culture. It celebrates its role in unifying diverse communities and shaping New York's unique sonic identity.

Panelists:
Hassan Fore
Hailing from Queens, New York, Hassan Pore emerged from the 1970s block party scene to become a major influence in hip-hop, managing acts like Whodini and founding Highlife Entertainment. His notable work includes directing "FOUNDING Father's: The Untold Story of Hip Hop," awarded Best Documentary at the 2009 Chicago International Hip Hop Film Festival.

Colin “Puma” Abrahams
Colin Abrahams, better known as “Puma”, is the founder and selector for Brooklyn’s original LP International Sound System. Arriving in New York in 1982 as a teenager from Clarendon, Jamaica, Puma's journey began with house parties in Flatbush and evolved to becoming a highly respected figure in the soundclash scene and New York sound system culture.

DJ Lenny Fontana
Lenny Fontana is a legendary house music DJ, producer and radio host from New York City with a passion for club sound systems, analog equipment and DIY gear. From playing at high-profile clubs such as Studio 54, The Underground NYC and Ministry of Sound, to scoring a #1 dance hit with his track “What You Need”, Fontana has left his mark on the music scene.

Joe Nice
Joe Nice, a UK-born DJ hailing from Baltimore, holds the distinction of pioneering dubstep nights in the United States. He is the co-founder of New York's groundbreaking Dub War club night with Dave Q in the late 2000’s, a pivotal moment credited with catalyzing the spread of Dubstep and other sound system-inspired music genres across the American underground music scene.

Carter Van Pelt (Moderator)
Carter Van Pelt is a DJ, broadcaster and writer with 30 years of experience. He is the founder of the annual Coney Island Reggae On The Boardwalk series. He has been a playlist consultant to Apple Music and is currently Director of Catalog Development at VP Records

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HI-FI TO THE PEOPLE: Celebrating Sound System Culture in New York
Ace Hotel Brooklyn and Dub-Stuy are proud to present “Hi-Fi to the People,” a winter-long series of events celebrating the vibrant and influential history of sound system culture in New York. These events will showcase the dynamic evolution of this culture, tracing its roots from the Caribbean diaspora to its profound impact on New York’s diverse communities.

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