Olive Lewin
- tcollins66
- Mar 18
- 1 min read
Updated: Jun 23
A Cultural Beacon at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation
Olive Lewin was a pivotal figure in the preservation of Jamaican folk music, whose efforts significantly shaped the nation’s cultural landscape. Born in Vere, Clarendon, to educator parents, Olive enjoyed a rich intellectual upbringing that nurtured her passion for music. Her music journey took her from Hampton School to the Royal Academy of Music, where she became the only black student in 1943.
One of her most notable contributions came during her tenure at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC), where she hosted a groundbreaking radio program dedicated to Jamaican folk music. Every Sunday evening, her show illuminated the depth of Jamaica’s musical heritage, allowing listeners to reconnect with their roots and foster a sense of national pride. Through her efforts at JBC, Lewin transformed folk music from a marginalised genre into a celebrated aspect of Jamaican identity, highlighting its significance in the cultural narrative.
In 1967, she founded the Jamaican Folk Singers, further cementing her legacy as a cultural ambassador and ensuring that traditional songs were preserved for future generations. Lewin's work extended beyond the airwaves; she engaged with communities and advocated for cultural preservation, enriching the lives of many.
Her contributions to Jamaican culture have been recognised internationally, and her dedication to preserving the nation's musical heritage has left an indelible mark. Olive Lewin's work at JBC was not just about music; it was about preserving the soul of Jamaica.
