Soul Tone Disco

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HISTORY OF SOUL TONE DISCO

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HISTORY OF SOUL TONE DISCO

Soul Tone was started in 1972 by the Henry boys, Milton, Ludlow (Luddy), and Whitfield “Witty” Henry in the downtown region of Kingston, a well-known community named Fletcher’s Land, hitherto the patriarch of the family Milton “Count” Henry Sr, owned and operated one of the top sound systems in the island, “Heatwave the “cloudbuster”. After seeing the many successes of the mighty Heatwave, the Henry Boys developed a tremendous love and appreciation for the music.

Fletcher’s Land at the time was responsible for producing some of the Island's most talented entertainers such as the great Don Drummond, Slim Smith, Gregory Isaacs, Stanley & the Turbines, Junior Murvin, Jimmy London, General Echo, just to name a few. With all this history behind them, Soul Tone managed to carve out a name in Kingston's downtown & uptown regions. They ruled supreme in places like Blinking Beacon (Mountain View), Sir Gurney Beach & Delmonty Hot Box (Windward Road), Tropics, JC Headquarters and Jasiserra Park (New Kingston). They competed against the likes of the late Stan Soul Merchant, Sana Tone, Afrique Happening, Image Disco, Plus X, Village Disco, Mello Canary, Blacknus and the list goes on. Soul Tone became a household name but because of the violence that gripped the downtown area in the late 70’s, the group abruptly migrated to the US.

While Milton and Luddy went off to pursue other interests, Witty went on to become one of New York’s top producers, working with talented artists like Shelly Thunder (Kuff), Shabba Ranks (Punaany full my head), Barrington Levy (Teach the youth), Trevor Sparks (Wings of Love), and Ninja man (Cover Me feat. Tinga Stewart). During the early eighties Milton, Jr. kept the Soul Tone name alive by playing at house parties, which oftentimes were held for the old Soul Tone faithful. Later Milton “roped in” his nephew Prentice, who added Desmond “Desi” Pessoa to the cast. Playing at house parties were good for the experience, but the compensation was not going to make it for the talented youths, therefore in 1986 Prentice along with his new partner and friend Desi decided to reinvent the Soul Tone name and take it to a higher level. This was the start of what was to become the dynamic duo, much like the Batman and Robin adventure series from the 60’s.

Soul Tone completed the 80s with much success, becoming well known throughout New York City and usually playing to “pack houses” each weekend. The early to mid-nineties were much of the same with Soul Tone becoming the house DJ for a few of the top clubs in New York, most notably Zamaca Night Club in New Rochelle and the world-renowned Liguenea International Night Club, and TJ’s in Queens.

Today, Soul Tone is as strong as ever and is continuing the legacy Milton Sr. started over four decades ago. Soul Tone has proven repeatedly that hard work, dedication, innovation, and professionalism are the keys to their success, and it is now the most sought-after mobile DJ organization for private events, weddings, and Jamaican high school past student alumni reunion functions, with an excess of over twenty schools to their credit. One visit to any Soul Tone event and you will realize the high level and intensity at which these professionals perform from weekend to weekend. They play the selections that no one else dares to play. I would go as far to say that, Soul Tone is one of the most versatile organizations in the business, therefore it comes as no surprise to see them growing from strength to strength each year. With new member additions in the works, look for Soul Tone Disco to be around for a long time to come.

Call Prentice @ 917-273-7832

PRENTICE BIO

Wilton Williams aka “Prentice” practically grew up in music and even though he did not know it at the time, his brain was manufacturing musical information and teachings that later became a source of his inspiration to become a great DJ. He remembered the days when he used to go into his grandfather’s storeroom, take out the records (all 78’s), and use them as flying saucers. Needless to say, the young prentice received numerous lashings because of his mischievous ways. Prentice learned from his grandfather, from an early age that innovation, knowledge, and talent are the main ingredients that would set him apart from his competition. That Soul Tone spirit is still alive today.

During the seventies, Prentice was introduced to the love of music purely by accident. Soul Tone Disco, piloted by Whitfield “Witty” Henry (Mr. Uptown Mondays), Milton Henry & Ludlow Henry, steadied the ship for the introduction to Music.

A talented sportsman who attended Mico Practicing School and eventually to the purple giants of North Street, Kingston College, Prentice was always keen on learning new things. After hours of practicing cricket in the backyard of 1B Garrick Lane, in the community of Fletchers Land, Kingston, Jamaica, he would sit and listen to his uncle’s practicing sessions. It was at one of these practicing sessions, that it became apparent; that music was going to play a significant role in the life of the young teenager’s life. Agustus “Gussie” Clarke, renowned producer, and CEO of Anchor Recordings, during one of these practicing sessions, brought boxes of new records & specials, made for Soul Tone Disco, from his home studio. At the time, the Ali Baba dub (version), was the number one dub recording, thanks to Gussie, Soul Tone had literally 10 different pieces of the same dub. Excitement filled the air, with each dub that Witty unleashed that evening, 1B Garrick Lane was in total mayhem. Prentice looked on in astonishment and decided music was just a little more than a pastime. He later fell in love with the music of Bob Marley and started singing his lyrics verbatim, as if he were Bob himself. In the seventies, to be caught singing “rasta songs” came under heavy criticism from his grandfather “Papa”, hence he had to go into hiding to study the words of the great prophet.

PRENTICE: “I knew this man was a great man, but I did not know to what extent at the time, but the words had a hold on me from a very young age”. I even snuck out to see the legend, in his first and only Bob Marley concert, at the Hero’s Circle (racecourse), just after he was shot in December of 1976, a moment I will never forget. “You see the concert was on a Sunday, 3 days after my birthday”.

After migrating to the US in 1980, Prentice continued his studies, and six years later received his BA, in Marketing Management and Finance, from Bernard M. Baruch College. During this period, he made a name locally as a DJ (toaster) and almost landed a recording contract with his uncle, Witty (Music Master), only to be told that his voice was too “thin” and “too pretty” to be a DJ. That did not stop Prentice; he made a name on the college scene, where he tore up the stage with his humorous Lyrics. After collecting a whole library of Witty hits throughout the early 80’s, along came Desi, himself a DJ (toaster). Prentice & Desi were always battling over who had the “wickedest” Lyrics but as of press time, it was not determined who was better. Anyway, that energy was transferred into what was to become the reinvention of Soul Tone Disco.

The 90s was a defining period in Prentice’s life; he left his job at a prominent Wall Street financial institution, Lehman Brothers, in 1994 to start his own business, which he ran for two years. The snowstorm of 1996, dealt him a hard blow and he was then forced to “lock up shop”. Disappointed by the closure of his business, Prentice stayed away from music and entertainment for one year to raise his daughter Kayla Paige (born 1993), only to be introduced to radio in early 1997, by the famous RJR radio announcer, Karl Anthony. The name of the program was the “Ecstasy Ride to Paradise” owned by Junior Lindo (All-Time Printing) & Austin Hutchinson, on 105.9fm, 10-11 pm time slot. In short, The Ecstasy Ride went on to be the number-one show, under the guidance of Prentice, beating out the likes of the Gil Bailey show, the Caribbean Blend & the Jeff Barnes show, a great feat for a newcomer. After radio, Prentice decided to focus his energy on Soul Tone. Today Prentice is proud to say, he has made a big contribution to music in the New York space. The hours of practice and devotion to music have made him the man he is today, a consummate professional.

-Body & Soul-

Call Prentice @ 917-273-7832

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Company Overview: Soul Tone Disco is an independent, privately owned Mobil Disc Jockey organization based in New York City and a subsidiary of Music Mixx Enterprises, LLC. As a company, our commitment has always been to satisfy our customers and to make excellent service a priority. Our commitment to quality is matched only by our commitment to competitive pricing.

Soul Tone Disco is recognized as a leader in the Mobil Disc jockey industry with their superior selecting and mixing skills, for well over 35 years. Our goal is to constantly develop innovative ways to satisfy our clients after every event. Our professionals are always fresh with ideas for our patrons. Also, our equipment is continually being upgraded to accommodate the latest musical presentation and client demands.

Helping our clients stay on top and have a successful event, is what we do best! Remember we are all about our clients!!!

Call Prentice @ 917-273-7832

SOUL TONE PHILOSOPHY

Philosophy: We choose our relationships carefully, orient ourselves to our client’s culture, stay in close touch with each client, and strive to achieve outstanding results.

Great selections coupled with a great sense of musical knowledge, are the key to Soul Tone achieving a superior final product. That final product results in larger attendances at our customer's follow-up events. In terms of a one-time event, such as a wedding or Birthday party, it will be an event soon not to be forgotten. The linchpin to our approach to music is simple, continue being to satisfy our present customers and to attract new ones with our great mixing abilities and selections of the various genres. Soul Tones treats every event, with the intent of having repeat customers. If your event is not successful, Soul Tone will refund 100% of your money.

Soul Tone intends to follow up with every customer to get feedback at the end of each event to ensure complete satisfaction. Having identified potential problems, Soul Tone expends great effort in developing these “flaws”.

Call Prentice @ 917-273-7832

FAQ'S

Soul Tone Disco (STD) gets a lot of the same questions asked by many of our clients, which are the common questions people need answers to, so below are the questions and answers!

How is STD better than a band?

There are many reasons! The music will never stop because we don't take breaks. We can play a huge variety of music. All of the music sounds just like you hear it on the radio. We can play all of your requests (not just those that the band knows). We cost less than half as much as a band, plus you get a larger sound and the option to have fun dance lighting.

Does STD take requests?

Absolutely! We play the music that you and your guests want to hear. Plus - we WON'T play the music you DON'T want to hear. If a guest requests a song you have asked NOT to be played or may be inappropriate, we politely inform them and lead them to another song more appropriate for your event.

Will STD subcontract my event?

Under no circumstances will STD ever subcontract an event. If we are not available, we will tell you that upfront so that you may find an alternative. In addition, we'll be glad to give you recommendations to other reputable companies that we network within the area.

Worst case scenario, what happens if STD absolutely can't show up?

If we were to get sick last minute, or even worse, in an accident before the day of your event, and we are physically unable to be there, we will, through our extensive network of reputable DJ companies, find a competent replacement for STD. If the other company charges more for the same amount of time, lighting, etc., then STD would cover the additional cost—nothing out of your pocket. However, in the 35+ years we've been in business, this has never happened!

How will STD dress for my event?

Our standard dress for weddings and corporate events is a suit. Our goal is not to detract from the event by overshadowing the participants with flashy clothes. It is YOUR event - the focus should be on YOU! If you have any special requests regarding clothing, make sure to let us know. We prefer to be dressed professionally, so the suit is standard unless you request it differently. For casual events, we wear a dress shirt and pants, and a tie if appropriate.

Does STD have Liability Insurance?

Yes, we do. We are a fully insured DJ Mobile Business. If your event requires STD to provide our Liability Insurance, please note, that an additional charge of $50.00 will be added to the total amount due.

Will STD show up early to set up for my event?

We always arrive 2 hours before every event that requires setting up. Although it does not take us the entire 2 hours to set up, we would rather have time to spare.

What if our venue requires an early setup for the DJ? Or setting up the day before?

We can accommodate, but there is a $100 additional charge for setting up earlier than just right before the event starts, meaning we have to set up, leave, and then come back later in the day. If an overnight set is required, we can discuss that for an additional charge. However, you will also be liable for our equipment’s safety overnight or during the day while we’re gone.

Who will control the volume at my event?

You will. We don't want to hurt anyone's hearing or offend anyone. Simply tell us if the volume is either too loud or too soft and we will immediately adjust our sound system. For sound during meals, we keep the volume to a level that enables everyone to be able to carry on a conversation without raising their voices or leaning in towards the person to whom they are speaking. Once the dancing begins, the volume is raised to a level appropriate for your event location.

Does STD use professional equipment?

All of our DJ equipment is professional and top-of-the-line in the DJ industry. Our equipment can withstand long hours of usage, unlike home stereo equipment, which a low-budget DJ company might bring if you hire them! Be Careful! This is important!

Does STD have a backup system in case of equipment failure?

STD uses a combination of compact discs and computer-based PC players. If one system ever goes down (which has never happened, knock on wood!), we always have a backup ready to go.

What will your equipment look like when set up and how much room do you need?

We do our best to minimize the impact of our equipment on your event. We keep everything tucked closely to our DJ booth, yet near the dance floor for maximum effect.

How many times will you announce the name of your company during our event?

Your event should not be looked at as an opportunity for us to advertise. If you choose to recognize us in your event program or announcements, that is fine. However, we will not bring up our name unless it has been requested. I, Wilton ‘Prentice’ Williams, however, make it a habit to

introduce myself right before I announce the wedding party in the grand entrance, as I welcome your guests. I do, however, display a sign.

Do we need to feed STD?

No. We do not eat unless we are specifically invited to do so. We do ask that you inform us before the event whether we will be invited to partake or not so we can prepare ourselves (by grabbing a bite on the way). Please remember that we are at the facility usually a few hours before you arrive and at least an hour after you leave. If you do feed us, we appreciate it highly. We also may turn down food if offered, but please do not be offended, as we may not be hungry, or the situation just doesn't call for it. We like to look professional behind our booth even during dinner, and sometimes eating can look bad to your guests, so we use our judgment at the moment.

Will STD drink alcohol?

Under no circumstances will STD drink alcohol before, or during your event. Even if offered, we will not drink. Do not be offended by this either! It is our opinion that we are there to do our best to make your event the best it can be. Alcohol consumption can only serve to hurt, not help, your event.

Do we need to tip STD?

Our business is a service industry, and as in all others, gratuities are greatly appreciated, especially if you feel we have done a great job. However, they are not required.

How far is STD willing to travel for an event?

We are willing to travel almost anywhere. We do like to keep it less than 200 miles. We give you a travel allowance of up to 70 miles round trip (35 miles each way). Longer distances will require a per diem based on mileage over that said amount and may require a hotel stay at your expense if it is over a certain amount of miles. The same may apply if your event does not end until after a certain time of the night. Contact us for more information!

May we see STD at work before we hire them?

It depends. We NEVER invite prospective clients to private events or wedding receptions without permission from the people in charge (do you want people you didn't invite to show up at your event?). However, if we are at a public function, you are perfectly welcome to come and see us. Please let us know so that we can tell you when and where we will be. Please be aware that the majority of our work is taken up by wedding receptions & dinner dances, so there is a good chance that there won't be any public events that will fit within your hiring schedule. We, however, will ask a couple if you can pop your head in at their reception, explaining why. If they say "ok" then you are more than welcome to do so!

For references - see the next question!

Do you have any references?

Of course! We cannot list them here for everyone to see their phone numbers. But if you contact us we would be happy to provide you with the requisite information.

What are the charges for an STD event?

It depends. There are a few variables to consider when pricing your event. Nothing major, if anything at all, so please call us for additional info does

STD require a deposit and a signed contract?

Yes. We require a non-refundable $100 (one hundred dollars) on all events. We will send you a contract and ask that you return it with your signature and deposit within 14 days. Your date is not officially secure until your deposit and contract are in our hands. However, we will not book another event on your day while your contract is outstanding. If we do not receive your deposit and contract within 14 days (the due date listed on your contract at the top), we reserve the right to rebook the date without notice.

Is my deposit refundable?

No. Sorry, but your deposit is non-refundable to protect us from lost bookings due to us scheduling your event.

Will STD schedule more than one event on the same day?

No - unless the events are far enough apart to provide for plenty of time to set up and tear down, and there is a firm stated ending time with no chance of overtime on the first event of the day. This is highly unlikely to happen, so you can 99% be assured we are ALL YOURS on your day! We will schedule an event on the same day, only as long as we know for sure that we have plenty of time between both events. We will inform you of this before booking EITHER event and allow you the right of first refusal (unless the event during the day was already scheduled).

When is the balance due?

One week before your event - NO EXCEPTIONS! We do not feel it is proper to work out payment at events (the last thing you should be thinking about is making sure the DJ is paid!). This is not our way of being rude, but only to avoid any confusion about balance, etc. Any overtime that is added on the day of the event is the only money we want to have to collect the day of. Cash is fine, or checks made out to Music Mixx Enterprises, llc.

Does STD charge an overtime fee?

We have a base rate of "up to 5 hours". After 5 hours, it is considered overtime and you are charged $100 per hour. We do not have a MAXIMUM amount of time we'll stay, because if your party is still happening, then why stop? We'll go as long as you need us to! We've done 8-hour events before!

Will you meet with me before my event?

Absolutely! We like to meet at least one month before your event so that we can discuss any special requests that you may have.

How do I get answers to even more questions I may have?

Easy! Email Soul Tone Disco at soultonemusic@gmail.com or call our business mobile at (917) 273-7832.