WINSTON ‘MERRITONE’ BLAKE DEAD AT 75 YEARS YOUNG

By: C. Harrison/March 7, 2016

Winston Blake was a stalwart for the Island of Jamaica. He was also am ambassador to the very end…for over 50 + years he had embraced  our community and was the iconic embodiment of what Reggae was all about from its foundation days to the present. The Reggae Industry found its symmetry in what Blake created and his broad variety of music touched every genre…especially Jazz. It was said that he might be the best sound system operator ever.

Producer Blake, became iconic not only for his music but for his brand “Merritone” an yearly event that  attacks thousands no matter where on earth it’s showcased. His father Val started the brand in the 1950s, which was carried on by Winston and his brothers Trevor, Tyrone and Monty after their father’s dead. After his brother’s death, Blake took the helm and carried on the legacy began by kins.  Mr. Blake  was very soft spoken, always happy and always greet with a smile. His death took everyone by surprise. Most people have said they didn’t see it coming but God knows best.

I have been to Mr. Blake’s shows several times and each time he never fail to please his fans. The last time I saw him was a couple of years ago at VP Records -retail store at 172 Jamaica Ave, New York, where I was greeted with a smile and got a hug. Has I said on my Facebook page “We were graced and blessed while he was here.” His music have thought us well and will continue to teach the younger generations the varying depths of what Reggae is. History will have his name on their pages.

He might be gone but he will never be forgotten….he will live on through his music. He was a beacon to young Reggae lovers…especially those young musicians in Jamaica coming through the pipeline. Winston ‘Merritone’ Blake died at the University Hospital in Kingston, of asthma. Born 1940, his eyes closed February 27, 2016.  Service for him will be held April 2, in Kingston Jamaica.