Long before TikTok Lives and global stages, Wayne Irie was a young man with big dreams, deep passion, and an undeniable ear for music. His journey began in the heart of the reggae sound system era—a time when vinyl ruled, speakers thundered, and every dance was a celebration of culture and community.
The Early Start: Merritone Days (1975)
In 1975, a young Wayne Irie took his first steps into the world of reggae entertainment, joining the legendary Merritone Sound System. Back then, sound systems were more than just setups for parties—they were community hubs where the latest records spun stories of struggle, love, and joy.
Wayne quickly earned a reputation for his smooth selections, flawless timing, and ability to read the crowd. Every night was a lesson, every record a chapter in his growing story. The experience would set the foundation for a lifetime in music.
The Rise of “King Alloy” (1978)
By 1978, Wayne’s talent and passion caught the attention of another major sound—Duke Alloy Sound System. Joining their ranks wasn’t just a move; it was a transformation. With Wayne behind the decks, Duke Alloy rose to new heights, becoming one of the most respected systems on the scene.
The chemistry between the crew was electric. Selector Wayne Irie laid down the tracks while dynamic MCs Twinny Ranks and Cantankerous Cooper worked the mic, hyping the crowd and creating unforgettable nights of pure reggae energy.
Their synergy and success earned the team a new title—“King Alloy”—a name that symbolized their dominance and the mark they left on the dancehall circuit.
Roots, Rhythm, and Respect
Those early years in his twenties weren’t just about music—they were about learning the craft, understanding the culture, and building lifelong connections through sound. From hauling speaker boxes to commanding dancefloors, Wayne Irie lived and breathed the art of reggae selection.
Even today, when Wayne takes the mic or spins a track live on TikTok, that same spark from his Merritone and Duke Alloy days still shines through—authentic, passionate, and full of soul.
“Those days taught me everything,” Wayne reflects. “It wasn’t just about playing music—it was about bringing people together.”