Alphonso Walker and 'Where It’s At'

A Game-Changer for Jamaican Culture

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In the vibrant tapestry of Jamaica’s cultural landscape, few figures stand as tall as Alphonso Walker. As a trailblazing producer and director, Mr Walker left an indelible mark on Jamaican television, reimagining how urban culture was represented on screen. His seminal show, 'Where It’s At,' which aired from 1972 to 1986, became a cultural phenomenon, connecting generations of Jamaican youth and profoundly shaping the country’s creative industries, particularly in music and dance.

The Birth of 'Where It’s At'

The idea for the show was born in 1971 while Mr Walker was attending a production course. 'Where It’s At' was conceived as a platform to promote local talent and offer young Jamaicans a voice amid a rapidly changing society. It had a dance segment and a forum where young people discussed issues affecting them. After the training ended, the show was launched on the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) TV in 1972. Initially, the show had two segments, one showcasing entertainment and dance and the other a forum where young people discussed issues pertinent to them.

'Where it's at!' opening montage. Credit: JBC

Mr Walker quickly recognised the need for better engagement and revitalised the show's concept. He removed the forum segment and instead infused the program with vibrant dance segments that featured inner-city talent, including the popular group named the Funky Phonics. This innovative approach electrified the show, transforming it into an essential viewing experience for the young and old alike across Jamaica.

Mr Walker’s production style was marked by historical creativity, which resonated in each episode of 'Where It’s At.' Reportedly operating on a shoestring budget, he expertly crafted a showcase where Jamaica’s latest dance crazes could coexist with contemporary music trends. The show became a symbol of Jamaican identity and pride, introducing a dynamic mix of influences that celebrated local culture while also being receptive to global trends.

Cultural Impact and Influences

'Where It’s At' transcended the typical confines of television programming; it evolved into a cultural institution that knitted together the aspirations of young Jamaicans seeking representation and belonging. In an era when disco and funk had seeped into global music consciousness, Mr Walker recognised the deep yearning of Jamaican youth for more than mere entertainment; they wanted a reflection of their culture in its finest form.

Shermaine Robotham and Norman Marsh in 'Where it's at!'. Credit: JBC

The show cultivated iconic dance groups and personalities whose influence rippled across Jamaica and beyond. The 'Where It’s At' dancers became household names, motivating countless Jamaicans to express themselves through dance. As emerging genres like R&B and funk graced the Jamaican music scene, 'Where It’s At' provided a platform for innovative choreography inspired by American dance trends captured through satellite broadcasts, particularly from ground-breaking shows like 'Soul Train.'

At the same time, local groups showed off their dance styles. Jamaican singers and entertainers, including The Wailers, Derrick Harriot, Dennis Brown, the Mighty Diamonds, and Leroy Smart, were being given prominence on the show.'Where It’s At' also showcased international artists who performed alongside Jamaican talent, including the Chilites and the Stylistics. This unique convergence highlighted the burgeoning Jamaican music scene while simultaneously blending diverse styles, enhancing the local creative industry and paving the way for future collaborations.

Shermaine Robotham and Norman Marsh in 'Where it's at!'. Credit: JBC

A Platform for Talent

For many young dancers and musicians, Alphonso Walker’s show served as a Launchpad to greater success. Numerous performers who featured on 'Where It’s At' were transformed into prominent figures in the Jamaican entertainment industry. The program institutionalised a culture of performance and visibility of Jamaican entertainers that had been largely absent from television before its inception. By allowing guest performers and aspiring artists to share the stage, Mr Walker nurtured a new generation of performers. He accentuated the importance of music and dance as key components of Jamaican culture.

Legacy of Alphonso Walker

Alphonso Walker’s contributions to Jamaican television and music extend far beyond the scope of 'Where It’s At.' He was a visionary who recognised the need for impactful creative representation and societal dialogues in the realm of entertainment. Even after the show’s conclusion in 1986, Mr Walker continued to influence the media landscape, actively contributing to broadcast efforts well into the 21st century.

His later endeavours included creating and hosting 'Vintage Memories' on the Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica (PBCJ), a show dedicated to exploring the historical significance of music and dance through vintage video clips. Even though Alphonso Walker passed away in 2020, his impact is embedded in the fabric of Jamaican culture.

Alphonso Walker in 'Where it's at!'. Credit: JBC

In 2021, he was posthumously honoured by the commissioner of Broward County in South Florida with a proclamation, underscoring the profound influence he wielded in life and beyond. His work remains a blueprint for emerging creatives, demonstrating that media can be a powerful catalyst for cultural expression and social change.

Conclusion

In summary, Alphonso Walker was more than a producer; he was a cultural architect who constructed bridges among generations through the vibrant world of 'Where It’s At.' His legacy endures, inspiring new waves of creativity across Jamaica and enriching the lives of countless young people who found their voices in the rhythm and dance of their homeland. Mr Walker's visionary approach has left an imprint on the Jamaican entertainment landscape that will resonate for generations to come.