Dubplate Pearl is a London-based DJ and cultural contributor with deep roots in the city's vibrant music scene. Born in Notting Hill to Grenadian parents and raised in Shepherd's Bush, she now resides in East Dulwich. Her musical journey began in childhood, shaped by a household filled with jazz, soul, calypso, reggae, and pop—genres that continue to influence her sets today.

A passionate vinyl collector since 1974, Dubplate Pearl began DJing in 2010, quickly gaining recognition for her authentic selections and deep knowledge of Black British musical heritage. She has performed at a range of high-profile events and venues, including Boiler Room, Touching Bass, Hackney Carnival with NTS, and the Southbank Centre’s Shakedown with Ash Walker. Her work has also been featured in cultural institutions such as the London Transport Museum’s Friday Late: Caribbean Journey, the Museum of London’s Bassline of a City – Dub London exhibition, and The British Library’s Beyond the Bassline series.

She has collaborated with respected researchers and initiatives, including Dr. Mykael Riley’s Bass Culture 70/50 project with Westminster University and the Black Music Research Unit, as well as Dr. Caspar Melville’s Bass Culture UK. Her contributions extend to projects like Club Jamaica/Adidas with Hasseb Iqbal, and Linett Kamala’s Lim Kam Art Original Sounds Collective.

Dubplate Pearl

Dubplate Pearl continues to champion the legacy and future of sound system culture and Black British music, blending historical insight with contemporary energy in every performance.

I had the pleasure to interview Dubplate Pearl, and here it’s her answers:

What first inspired you to become a DJ and specifically a vinyl selector?

I've been buying records since 1974 and over the years had built up a mixed collection. Not really inspired as such to become a DJ, but was given an opportunity by friends in Shepherds Bush to participate in an event where I was asked to do a warm up "because we know you have records" they said and that was it. I never had an inclination to become a DJ.

Can you tell us about your first experiences with vinyl and reggae music?

My first experiences with vinyl and reggae music were with my parents as we always had music in the house especially on Sundays. My Dad liked big band sounds like Ray Charles, Jimmy Smith, Nat King Cole and my Mum started buying reggae in the 60s, mostly rocksteady, but prior to that Mum had a lot of ska records.

Were there any female DJs or selectors who influenced your journey?

Unfortunately, not really and not that I was aware of at the time when I started.

What do you find most special about selecting and spinning vinyl compared to digital formats?

I only know how to play records and cannot comment on digital formats. What's special is knowing you've selected the right music for the audience you are playing to at night.

Dubplate Pearl outside Lion Vibes in Brixton

How do you build a vinyl collection? Are there particular labels, artists, or eras you focus on?

I've been buying records since 1974 and influenced by my parents' taste in music, but also buying genres and artists that caught my ear, and deciding whether I can play them at home, if I can, then I know it's something I can play to a wider audience. The eras I like are between 1960 and 2000.

What’s your process when preparing for a set? How do you choose which records to bring?

I go through the different genres and choose ones that perhaps I haven't played in a while. For me, it is about anticipating the audience you will be playing to and choosing a wide variety of genres that they may appreciate.

What challenges have you encountered as a woman in the vinyl and reggae scene?

"A challenge I remember having was with a young man who came and stood next to me while playing and had the nerve to tell me what I should be playing next!!! I asked him if it was a male DJ playing, would he be telling him what to do? He couldn't answer and was swiftly dismissed (putting it mildly)!!

Another challenge I've had is being asked, "Are YOU the DJ - you don't look like one"? Can't remember how I replied!!

Can you share a moment when you really felt you had made an impact with your music?

Yes, recently, when I played at a weekly event in West Bromwich for the first time, and had my records "pulled up" (being asked to play it again) while the audience sang along. That was an absolutely incredible evening, and it still sends chills down my spine when watching it back. Also, after that event, hearing from well-known selectors and DJs to say how much they enjoyed what I did, and getting the thumbs up.

How do you see the role of women evolving in reggae and vinyl culture today?

We have evolved, and there is no turning back, no matter how much it is still very male-dominated. We are out there doing our own thing in our own unique and special way.

Which three records would you say shaped you the most as a selector?

Unfortunately, I can't give three as there are too many to choose from. But one thing I can say is by The Twinkle Brothers - Never Get Burned. I played this at one of the first public events I attended in 2011 in Brixton, the response I received I will never forget. The event was Jah Observer's Retirement Party, where followers were invited to bring two records to play on his sound system for about six minutes, but that particular track was rewound several times and played for at least 30 minutes. That was an absolutely amazing night.

What advice would you give to young women who want to start collecting and selecting reggae vinyl?

Firstly, source and purchase a good turntable. Visit record shops (charity shops too), record fairs and buy as many as you can afford (unfortunately reggae records are becoming quite expensive and highly sought after). Attend open deck events i.e. Lion Vibes Record Shop, where I help out, has a monthly Selectors' Thursday - the first Thursday of the month - get your name on the list and play for 15 mins. https://www.lionvibes.com. Most nights it is recorded and posted on socials which is seen around the world!! Also, try and get a slot on a local radio station.

The women who keep the music turning: Dubplate Pearl

The women that keep the music turning: Maxie B