The sound system phenomon began in Jamaica in the 'fifties' as a new style of entertainment, sound systems were then, and still are today, quite literally mobile discotheques. As the competition among systems in the early days increased, so the popularity grew, meaning systems endeavoured to become bigger and technically better to stay ahead of their rivals. This lead in its turn led to a rapid development of home-grown ska and rock steady which eventually manifested in full-blown reggae. Throughout reggae history sound systems have served to establish important producers, sound engineers and many vocal artists alike. Today however, the word sound system has become synonimous with other sub-cultures far akin from reggae. It stands out tall and proud on posters all over Europe, tagged onto the end of different dj names, a strange thought to those who still maintain the true time honoured tradition of sound system. Those who have pride and invest all their time, energy and financial resources in getting the show on the road, at all costs. King Shiloh is from the old-school tradition, trusting in personalised equipment, often self-made, created specifically to play a specific music through (and at loud volume); reggae music, the heartbeat music. King Shiloh Sound System, based in Amsterdam, Holland, is an international, independently operating, roots reggae sound system, founded and inspired through the inspiration of Jah Rastafari.