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Rootsland  "Stories that are Music to your ears"

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Rating
★★★★★
4.9
from
79 reviews
This podcast has
99 episodes
Language
English
Publisher
Henry K
Explicit
No
Date created
2021/02/04
Latest episode
2026/01/22
Average duration
25 min.
Release period
22 days

Description

Rootsland is a long-form storytelling podcast about music, resistance, and what remains. Hosted by Henry “K” Karyo — one of the first American producers to move to Kingston, Jamaica — the series blends first-person memoir with cultural history, tracing a journey into reggae’s underground world and far beyond it. Set inside reggae culture but driven by human story, Rootsland explores creative survival, unlikely friendships, and the deeper truths music carries long after the noise fades. These are stories about craft, community, and memory — the things that don’t scale, can’t be optimized by algorithms, and still require us to sit still and listen. Stories that are music to your ears. © Henry K

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Check latest episodes from Rootsland "Stories that are Music to your ears" podcast


"What Remains" A Song of our Own
2026/01/22
SEASON 10 What Remains · EPISODE 1 — A Song of our Own In the Season 10 premiere of Rootsland, Henry K traces how scent, sound, and song carry us back to what truly shaped us — from Sunday night barbecues on Long Island, to a first Grateful Dead show at Madison Square Garden, to the unlikely bridge between reggae and American counterculture. As we enter a post-Babylon digital world driven by speed, systems, and artificial intelligence, What Remains asks a quieter question: What is worth carrying forward? Through the story of Black Muddy River, Israel Vibration, and the lyric that changed everything — from walking alone to walking as one — this episode explores resilience, community, and the strength we don’t discover until comfort falls away. Support the Rootsland Team https://rootsland.captivate.fm/support Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica Listen out for Henry K's upcoming appearance on Hippie-Fari Reggae Radio & Podcast | iHeart ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise Fundraiser by William Brawner : Rebuilding For The Future In The Wake of Hurricane Melissa closing song: Black Muddy River performed by Isreal Vibration
"What Remains" One Take
2026/02/05
ONE TAKE In this episode of Rootsland, Henry K explores what happens when life doesn’t give you a second chance. Through a chance encounter in a supermarket aisle, memories of his childhood, and moments inside the recording studio, he reflects on planning versus instinct, control versus improvisation, and the power of mistakes that can’t be edited out. From handwritten shopping lists to old-school reggae sessions where the tape never stopped rolling, this is a meditation on imperfection, presence, and the moments that define us. Because sometimes the mistake doesn’t ruin the song. Sometimes, it becomes the song. Support the Rootsland Team https://rootsland.captivate.fm/support Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica Listen out for Henry K's upcoming appearance on Hippie-Fari Reggae Radio & Podcast | iHeart ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise Fundraiser by William Brawner : Rebuilding For The Future In The Wake of Hurricane Melissa Featured Track: Feeling Groovy 59th Street Bridge Song Sugar Minott Brian Jahn (@brianjahnphoto) • Instagram photos and videos cover photo by Brian Jahn
"Resistance" The Tan Umbrella
2025/10/10
Rootsland: Resistance – Episode 1: “The Tan Umbrella”In the debut of Rootsland: Resistance, hosts Henry K and Sia explore what it truly means to “put up resistance” — in life, in music, and in the modern world. Inspired by Beres Hammond’s timeless anthem, their conversation weaves personal stories with social truths, showing how the fight to stay strong is both deeply personal and profoundly collective. Sia’s reflections as a cancer survivor bring the theme to life, revealing quiet acts of courage and the daily power of perseverance. Together, the hosts connect these struggles to a broader cultural battle — the fight to preserve authenticity in an age of algorithms and modern Babylon. At once intimate and thought-provoking, this episode reminds us that resistance isn’t a relic of the past — it’s a living rhythm. Support Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories" Support the Rootsland Team Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica Intro by Kim Yamaguchi Closing Song: Putting Up Resistance performed by Jakoostik - YouTube featuring Wayne Armond and Seretse Small ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise
"Resistance" Every time I plant a Seed
2025/10/23
In this powerful new episode of Rootsland: The Resistance, Henry K and Sia tell the story of Bipin Joshi — a young Nepali rapper and farmer who left home to learn modern agriculture in Israel, only to find himself caught in one of history’s darkest moments. Through Bipin’s journey and his family’s unwavering love, Rootsland explores courage, loss, and the quiet power of resistance — and how even in the blood-soaked soil, hope still finds a way to grow. Support Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories" Support the Rootsland Team Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica Intro by Kim Yamaguchi Opening/Closing Music Bipin Joshie Pashna प्रश्न… song by my brother bipin Joshi. Waiting for his safe release. #rescuebipinjoshi. - YouTube Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise As Israel’s Hostages Came Home, Bipin Joshi’s Mother From Nepal Learned Her Son Would Not - WSJ  By Krishna Pokharel
"Hurricane Melissa Special" Sense of Purpose
2025/11/03
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, Henry K and Sia reflect on Jamaica’s unbreakable spirit — and what it truly means to live with purpose. From the humor of “Wild Gilbert” to the wisdom of a Cornell study, this episode explores how resilience, rhythm, and compassion keep the island — and all of us — moving forward. Featuring heartfelt stories, reggae insight, and a call to rebuild with love and intention. Fundraiser by William Brawner : Rebuilding For The Future In The Wake of Hurricane Melissa Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica "Row Jimmy" (Garica/Hunter) performed by Judy Mowatt ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise
"Resistance" Many Rivers to Cross
2025/11/14
In the episode "Many Rivers to Cross" Henry K and Sia explore the quiet but powerful weight of regret—how it can hold us back, and how it can set us free. Their conversation centers on the inspiring true story of Ryan Rae Harbuck, a young swimmer paralyzed at sixteen whose deepest regret wasn’t her accident, but the potential she never allowed herself to embrace before it. Ryan’s journey back to the water, her pursuit of Paralympic dreams, and her determination to create a life with no regrets reveal how regret can become a driving force rather than a burden. Henry reflects on his own rebirth after years of music-industry heartbreak, sparked by a sunrise, a walk, and Jimmy Cliff’s “Many Rivers to Cross.” The episode closes with a heartfelt tribute to missionary pilot Alexander Wurm and his daughter Serena, who were tragically killed while transporting hurricane relief supplies to Jamaica. Their final mission becomes a reminder of love, service, and the courage to show up for others. A moving episode about resilience, purpose, and the power to change your own ending. Fundraiser by William Brawner : Rebuilding For The Future In The Wake of Hurricane Melissa Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise
"Sitting in Limbo" Jimmy Cliff Tribute
2025/11/28
"Sitting in Limbo" pays tribute to the profound impact of the late reggae icon Jimmy Cliff, whose recent passing has left an indelible void in the world of music and culture. As the host Henry K reflects on Jimmy's legacy, he recounts personal anecdotes that illuminate the essence of his character and the power of his artistry. Cliff’s songs resonated deeply, serving as a beacon of hope and resilience for many, including Henry during a tumultuous period in his life. Jimmy Cliff's unwavering spirit and the emotional depth of his music remind us of the necessity for such light in our current times. This episode is not merely a tribute; it is a heartfelt exploration of how one individual’s journey can inspire and uplift others, even in the face of loss. Support Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories" Support the Rootsland Team closing Song "Sitting in Limbo" performed by Jimmy Cliff Jimmy Cliff - Sitting in Limbo (Live in On Airstreaming) - YouTube Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica Intro by Kim Yamaguchi ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise
"Resistance" The Vibes Man
2025/12/11
In this episode of Rootsland Resistance Henry K lifts the curtain on the unsung heroes of Jamaican music — the vibes men, the background innovators who lit up dancehall without ever chasing the spotlight. We remember the legendary dancehall icon Joe Lickshot, and Henry K recounts an unforgettable This American Life story about a kid from Jersey named Luis who willed himself into greatness. A show about sound, struggle, joy… and the people who make the stars shine. Support Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories" Support the Rootsland Team Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise subscribe to the Herb and Legends feed below closing theme: Deadly Headley Bennett Rockers out West
"Resistance" Babylon by Bus
2025/12/30
In this powerful Rootsland Season 9 Finale Henry K guides you from the abandoned farmhouses of early American country music… to the zinc fences of Trenchtown, and straight onto a tour bus rolling through London, Paris, Copenhagen, and Amsterdam. We follow how songs became passports — how Bob Marley didn’t escape Babylon, but infiltrated it… carrying truth through the system instead of running from it. And just when the past feels far away — the story comes crashing into right now. AI bands topping reggae charts Digital life replacing lived life. A world leaving humanity behind… without a map back home. This is a journey about how music carries us home — even when the world is changing faster than we can hold on. Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise Legends of Reggae | Facebook
"Wanted Dread or Alive" Belly It
2025/02/13
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 musician but also raised profound questions regarding justice and the political landscape of the time. We explore the complexities of Tosh's legacy, marked by his passionate advocacy for equal rights and his defiance against oppressive systems. The narrative will scrutinize the circumstances leading to his death, the aftermath of the trial, and the lingering silence surrounding the true motives behind this violent act. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the truths hidden within this unsolved tragedy, aiming to resurrect the narrative that powerful forces have sought to obscure. Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios, Kingston Jamaica Featured music Peter Tosh "Legalize it" & "Equal Rights" Make sure you subscribe to the new feed Easily listen to Herb and Legends in your podcast app of choice ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise
"Wanted Dread or Alive" The Alibi
2025/02/20
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 intertwine with music, politics, and street justice, revealing a landscape where the official accounts often mask deeper truths. Host Henry K highlights Lobban's perplexing defense during his trial, which raised questions about his motives and mental state, suggesting a deliberate misdirection rather than a genuine attempt to establish innocence. Further, the episode probes into the eerie circumstances of the night Tosh was killed, drawing attention to the inconsistencies in witness testimonies and the chilling implications of a robbery that may have been a façade for a targeted assassination. As we navigate this turbulent history, we are setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the events that transpired on that fateful night. Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise subscribe to the Herb and Legends feed below Easily listen to Herb and Legends in your podcast app of choice Legends of Reggae | Facebook
"Wanted Dread or Alive" The Getaway Driver
2025/02/27
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 legacy of the late Sybil Hibbert, a pioneering journalist who chronicled the country’s underworld with a deftness that transcended mere reporting. Her work not only captured the pulse of Jamaica during its formative years but also intertwined personal narratives with larger societal issues, thereby enriching the discourse surrounding crime and justice. Henry K reflects on how Hibbert's unique perspective as both a journalist and the spouse of Isadore Dick Hibbert, the lead investigator in the notorious murder of Peter Tosh, imbued her reporting with an unparalleled depth. Finally, examination of Steve Russell, the alleged getaway driver, adds another layer of complexity to the investigation, as Henry K argues that the true story behind Tosh's murder has been obscured by a labyrinth of deceit, misinformation, and sensationalism, leaving a legacy fraught with questions that remain unanswered. Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise subscribe to the Herb and Legends feed below Easily listen to Herb and Legends in your podcast app of choice Legends of Reggae | Facebook
"Wanted Dread or Alive" Good Cop, Bad Cop
2025/03/06
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 pattern of violence perpetrated by those sworn to protect the public. Through firsthand accounts and meticulous investigation, the narrative uncovers the involvement of police officers in orchestrating these heinous acts, thereby highlighting the pervasive corruption within the Jamaican law enforcement system. As the story unfolds, we are compelled to confront the unsettling implications of a justice system that allows such brutality to flourish unchecked and the Uphill Battle faced by the "Good Cops" fighting wars on two fronts. Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica Intro features Third World Band ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise subscribe to the Herb and Legends feed below Easily listen to Herb and Legends in your podcast app of choice Legends of Reggae | Facebook
"Wanted Dread or Alive" Bullets and Blood
2025/03/20
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 picture of the scene at Marley's residence, where the rehearsal for an upcoming "Smile Jamaica" concert was abruptly interrupted by gunfire, illustrating the chaos and fear that permeated the air. "Bullets and Blood," explores the intersection between artistry and survival, as Marley would not only recover but also take the stage shortly after the attack, transforming his vulnerability into an extraordinary display of defiance at the Smile Jamaica concert, which symbolized hope amid violence and division. The episode articulates a sentiment of lost potential, examining how Marley's exile following the assassination attempt diluted his direct influence over Jamaica's political struggles while simultaneously propelling him onto a global stage as a spiritual and cultural figure. It hints at future explorations of the enigmatic circumstances surrounding Marley's eventual death, suggesting that the truths of his life and legacy remain intertwined with the complexities of the world around him .Support Rootsland "Reggae's Untold Stories" Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica opening theme features music by 3rd World Band Yim Mas Gan subscribe to the Herb and Legends feed below Easily listen to Herb and Legends in your podcast app of choice Legends of Reggae | Facebook
"Wanted Dread or Alive" Bullets and Blood Part 2
2025/03/27
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, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing fact from fiction. The discussion unveils the complexities of Marley's health struggles, drawing attention to the scientific underpinnings of melanoma and the multifaceted factors contributing to its progression. The speakers advocate for a nuanced understanding of Marley's demise, urging listeners to confront the uncomfortable truths about mortality and the often invisible forces at play in the lives of those who dare to challenge the status quo. Ultimately, Henry K joined by Malrey Biographer Roger Steffens not only seek to clarify Marley's story but also create a broader commentary on the nature of truth and the societal impulses that seek to obscure it. Petition · Justice Denied: Reopen the Peter Tosh Murder Case Now - United States · Change.org Produced by Henry K in association with Voice Boxx Studios Kingston, Jamaica Herb and Legends Intro features Third World Band YimMasGan ROOTSLAND NATION Reggae Music, Podcast & Merchandise subscribe to the Herb and Legends feed below Easily listen to Herb and Legends in your podcast app of choice Legends of Reggae | Facebook Kevin Shipp Intro CIA Files: The Dark Alliance & The Power of Secrecy | Directive of Plausible Deniability #shorts - YouTube Remember to schedule your yearly cancer screening.

Podcast reviews

Read Rootsland "Stories that are Music to your ears" podcast reviews


4.9 out of 5
79 reviews
★★★★★
Kingstonvibez420 2025/11/14
Best of the best
Hands down one of the best podcasts out there. Been listening since season one, great storytelling complemented by perfect music. The cadence, the to...
★★★★★
roo-tical 2024/05/23
A gateway to an incredible history
This is probably the easiest intro to jump into learning about the history of modern reggae music. Very digestible, relatable, and worthwhile tangents...
★★★★☆
mizage 2025/05/12
Great podcast
Good stuff. It does remind me of how bad Jamaican reggae was in the mid-eighties through the 90s. I remember going to Sunsplash in 89 or 90 and the h...
★★★★★
393938423984 2024/02/13
Great story, well told!
Well worth a listen!! In addition to the fascinating tale of life and labor in the music industry in Jamaica, the production of Henry's voice along wi...
★★★★★
Dreadpiratemay 2024/02/12
Rootsland
Amazing series with great insight into the reggae world while also following a powerful story of two friends whose paths are twisted together.
★★★★★
Wardo83 2024/02/09
Respect to the man called Henry K
I just want to say I love the show and I give thanks for the effort you put into making it. Excellent story telling and I adore the reggae history mix...
★★★★★
nolefan15 2024/02/03
my new obsession
Can’t believe I am just learning about this show. Totally impressed with the production, storytelling, and music The flow and the tempo feels so n...
★★★★★
Maxlaw66 2023/07/13
creativity at it's best
been a fan since season 1, this is one of the most creative and innovative shows out there. the storytelling, the music. the tone, tenor and voice ...
★★★★★
yaad king 2022/10/27
Phenomenal
I am a big fan who has invested unmeasurable amounts of time studying dancehall and reggae music, most questions I have Henry K with his first hand ex...
★★★☆☆
JayeH345 2022/11/17
Great Reggae/Dancehall/Jamaican History show
I’ve listened to every season and episode and love the show. However, I am disappointed that this season they’ve shortened the episodes and still rele...
check all reviews on apple podcasts

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