The group was born in London in 1979, when brothers Mikey Dread (selector) and Jah T (MC), descendants of Jamaicans, decided to build their own sound system. Inspired by the pioneers of dub and guided by Rastafari philosophy, they created a project devoted to roots reggae music, conscious messaging, and spiritual connection through sound.

From their early days in the neighbourhoods of West London to becoming fixtures of the famous Notting Hill Carnival, Channel One has evolved without ever losing its essence: pure vinyl, exclusive dubplates, and an analogue system. They’ve travelled the world, taking their music to countries across all continents, spreading the message of unity, love, and resistance found in traditional reggae.

Channel One’s mission is “to break down barriers through reggae music”, and they’ve succeeded, bringing their sound to new audiences and diverse stages around the globe. In the last decade, some of their most notable milestones include winning the Red Bull Culture Clash in 2010, participating in the Wembley Arena edition in 2012 against Major Lazer, Annie Mac and Boy Better Know, and completing five national tours backed by the Arts Council. 

In recent years, Channel One has held a residency at one of London’s most iconic venues: Village Underground, a converted warehouse turned concert hall, where their sessions have gone viral on YouTube.