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On August 6th, 1962, Jamaica gained full independence. This joyous occasion coincided with a period of rapid development in the island's recording industry, with ska just beginning to take hold as the island's national sound. These two momentous - & not unconnected - events resulted in the finest & most uplifting ska & R&B ever recorded, & as a way of celebrating Jamaica's 40 years of self-rule, 27 of these hard to find classics have been gathered on this essential collection. Many of the artists who first made their mark at the dawn of Jamaica's independence went on to become the most enduring performers in the island's musical history. This is reflected in the artists featured on this collection, with Jimmy Cliff, Derrick Morgan, Owen Gray, Derrick Harriott & Jimmy James among those on the celebratory roll call of performers whose work is highlighted. All of the tracks featured on this set were best-selling 45s, with many listed in the top 25 hits for 1962 by Jamaica's premiere radio station, RJR. Trojan Records. 2002.