Often when scholars discuss the 1970s in Jamaica, the divisive politics of that decade inevitably comes up. Democratic socialism, mantra of the then governing People’s National Party, found favour with the working class but drove fear in social elites. Yet, despite the power outages, food shortages, and political friction, there was plenty of joy in Jamaica 50 years ago.
Family time The all-inclusive concept was years from reality. Kingstonians who wanted to escape the hustle of the city travelled to hotels like Turtle Towers, Shaw Park, and Tower Isle in Ocho Rios; Seawind Beach Resort and Montego Bay Beach Hotel in St James; as well as smaller properties in St Mary, Portland, and Trelawny. Negril was a rustic, sleepy fishing village where locals welcomed American hippies who loved the area’s intimate cottages and laid-back lifestyle.
Where they partied Turntable Turntable Club was operated by the Blake brothers — Trevor, Winston, Tyrone and Monte. It was located along the Red Hills Road strip which was home to numerous clubs including Tit For Tat and Stables. Politicians, musicians, artistes and the infamous hung out at the Turntable as well as famous American stars like Marvin Gaye and Bunny Sigler.
Bohemia Found at the intersection of Hagley Park and Maxfield Roads, this venue, like Tit For Tat and Stables, featured live music with a resident band. Producer Winston “Niney” Holness conducted talent shows at Bohemia, helping to expose acts like Mykal Rose, future .
