Born in Handsworth to Windrush parents Elrick and Vera “Miss Dotty” Brown, Michael “Mykal Wassifa” Brown was just a teenager when he founded Wassifa Sound System in 1972 on Stamford Road. What began as a schoolboy passion for building speaker stacks in his family’s back room grew into one of the UK’s most influential reggae sound systems — and a cultural force that helped shape British Caribbean identity.
For over five decades, Wassifa has been more than music. It has been education, community, resistance, and celebration. From the streets of Birmingham to international stages, Mykal’s vision has carried Jamaican roots reggae across generations.
Mykal ‘Wassifa’ Brown • Jamaica Session
Mykal Wassifa Brown Heritage Foundation
This National Lottery-funded project celebrates Wassifa’s historic journey. It includes a touring exhibition, oral histories, rare films, publications and photography — preserving the story of how reggae and sound system culture travelled from Jamaica to the inner cities of Britain and became a lasting part of our national heritage.
“Wassifa has been instrumental in the development and rise of reggae music in Birmingham — regionally, nationally and internationally.”
THE JOURNEY
The Birth of Wassifa
A 15-year-old Mykal Brown builds his first speaker stack with friends and family on Stamford Road, Handsworth. Wassifa Sound System is born in the family back room — the headquarters for the next two decades.
Roots & Culture Era
Wassifa becomes a cornerstone of Birmingham’s reggae scene, playing legendary sessions at The Drum and across the Midlands. The sound system helps unite communities and introduces British audiences to authentic Jamaican roots music.
MBE Recognition
Mykal “Wassifa” Brown is awarded an MBE by Her Majesty The Queen for services to the community and reggae music. He continues as a college lecturer, youth mentor and cultural ambassador.
50th Anniversary
Wassifa celebrates half a century with exhibitions, special sessions and the launch of the Mykal Wassifa Brown Heritage Foundation. The sound system is now recognised as one of the longest-running in the world.
Still Burning
Today Wassifa continues to tour, host major events (including Burning Spear 2026) and inspire new generations. The legacy lives on through the foundation, the sound, and the community.
LEGACY MOMENTS
