Di Unit celebrates 10 years - Sound system reignites Badda Tuesdayz; Promises ‘Entertainment Beyond the Ordinary’ anniversary bash

Despite advances in music technology and production, Portmore's powerhouse crew, Di Unit, has declared that sound systems will never lose their relevance.

"It's always gonna be of importance," said Di Unit's managing director Davey 'Tallboss' Scott.

"Technology has only given more avenues to more artistes and more sound systems and shed some more light on the industry," he said.

Di Unit, Davey 'Tallboss' Scott, Badda Bling, Little Rich, and Keno Russian, is marking 10 years in the business.

Tallboss argues that a lot has changed in the way people consume music, and contends that is issue isn't whether people are using traditional sound systems or new technology like laptops and controllers to play music.

"It's just the content that we put out there, and what people gravitate to, because what might be hot on social media might not be hot in the public space worldwide," Tallboss said.

Similarly, ace selector Badda Bling says the role of sound systems in the culture is undeniable.

"The sound system has always been the vehicle that transported the music across the landscape. The sound system can never be eradicated in no shape or form," he confidently stated.

"Yes, you might not have a lot of new, big, and upcoming physical sound systems [with] the boxes and so forth. Like for us - Di Unit - we don't necessarily have a physical sound system, but we consider ourselves a sound system because that's how we are cultured and operate, and neither of us operate as a solo selector," Badda Bling said.

However, he feels that people need to show more love, respect, and understanding for the history and roots of sound system culture.

Badda Bling also criticises the authorities for putting too many restrictions on dancehall events and sound systems, making it harder for them to thrive.

"The people in authority [should] take the leash off dancehall and sound systems and stop muzzling it. Start allowing back the big sound systems to keep back their little street dances and make people start falling back in love with the big boxes, then the culture will never die," Badda Bling added.

Di Unit, is set to fire up the Matrix Lawn Bayside, Portmore, tomorrow with the return of its iconic street party, Badda Tuesdayz. The event marks the beginning of a series of celebrations leading up to Di Unit's milestone 10-year anniversary show, scheduled for June 24.

Tallboss sees the anniversary as not just a win for Di Unit, but a boost for the broader dancehall culture.

"Consistency is the key in whatever you're doing and Di Unit has always been a consistent face in the dancehall arena for the past 10-years. We've also grown with the changes and grown new fans throughout our tenure," he said.

Tallboss stressed that adaptability and clean, versatile music selections have been vital to Di Unit's success.

"To be a very successful sound system, you have to be able to study the different genres of music, play clean music so you can be called upon to play at any corporate events/in any arena and that's something we pride ourselves on," he said.

Meanwhile, Badda Bling, shared his excitement with THE STAR about the significance of the 10-year milestone.

"It feels good to know that we, under the brand Di Unit, we have accomplished 10 years under our belt in delivering quality music and entertainment to our supporters, fans and our patrons," Badda Bling said.

"Starting back Badda Tuesdayz is a key component in us setting up ourselves for another 10 years of excellent entertainment," he added.

Badda Tuesdayz gained reputation for turning dancehall gatherings into unforgettable experiences only grew. The Di Unit team is hoping to expand that magic islandwide, with support from corporate Jamaica.

In addition to restarting Badda Tuesdayz, Di Unit is also promising an unforgettable anniversary bash on June 24. The celebration is dubbed '10 years of entertainment beyond the ordinary,' and is set to feature some of the hottest starts in dancehall.

"People should come celebrate with Di Unit due to the fact that we have continued to be a rock solid sound system in the space of dancehall," Badda Bling promised.