Dub Poetry, a dying art form?

The self-expression facilitated through the creative and performing arts has taken many forms over the years and seen various evolutions. Through music, dance, painting, sculptures, fashion and poetry; creative forms of expression have allowed artists to connect with individuals and share of themselves in ways that are as second nature to them as breathing. While some forms of art and expression have continuously maintained their popularity over the decades, others have faded into the shadows and only remain alive in small intimate groups of artists who still connect with such forms of expression. A prime example of this phenomenon is dub poetry.

Jamaica was positioned at the epicentre of the birth of dub poetry. It was celebrated through the use of our creole dialect and championed by many pioneers throughout our society. Over the years, however, the art form has continued to lose its significance within our culture. One of the more notable Jamaicans who have been associated with the artistic expression of dub poetry is Mutabaruka. Unfortunately, however, this form of expression is no longer widely practised in Jamaica as others have opted to utilize more modern forms of artistic expression.

The history and significance of dub poetry is not being culturally inherited by our younger generations and as such most are unaware that this form of expression existed and was a monumental part of our history.