Dalton ‘Sky Juice’ Bogle grateful for all of his life’s accomplishments

It’s no secret that DJs and sound systems are the backbone of dancehall music and culture in Jamaica. Making bold moves in the industry, Dalton Bogle, popularly known as DJ Sky Juice, hopes to set the benchmark for his craft for generations to come.

The well-known selector, with over 40 years of experience in the industry, has garnered the respect of artistes and audiences worldwide for his creative song selections and on-stage antics. In July, he received the Guinness Sounds of Greatness Recognition Award, in celebration of his contribution to dancehall culture,

Reflecting on his time in the industry, Bogle, the self-proclaimed “big belly” veteran selector, shared that he got his start through dancing. “A long time ago, I was a dancer with a group called Black X. I won multiple awards for dancing and I thought I was a very good dancer. I believe I had a God-given talent, so I just practised because I loved it.”

The transition to deejaying happened organically, he says. While at an event, he felt inspired to switch a record being played by a DJ to another of his choice, even adding a special mic-play that was well-received by attendees. Bogle did not hesitate to parlay his newfound talent and interest in sound system juggling into a career. “Becoming a disc jockey was not something I intended to do. It was just another hidden talent I discovered accidentally. I was eventually discovered by Archibald Cummings from Gemini Sound. From there, I became a part of many sound systems, until the 1980s when I met Peter Metro, and the rest has been history.”

Today, Bogle is part of Metro Media Sound, whose legendary founder, Peter ‘Metro’ Clarke, had a leading impact on the music industry during the 1980s. Clarke played a significant role in shaping the dancehall genre and inspiring future generations, and Bogle says he is honoured to be a part of Clarke’s legacy – and rightfully so.

Despite facing multiple challenges throughout his career and even having a stroke in 2017, Bogle remains resilient and persistent in what he wants to achieve. His level of vigour has paved the way for him to be crowned the World Clash Champion in 2013 and to play at multiple shows, including Reggae Sumfest.

Addressing his ascent and most recent award from Guinness, Bogle said, “In my life, I didn’t focus on the challenges because those are inevitable. I chose to focus on those that saw my potential and helped me along the way. I feel really good having received the Guinness Sounds of Greatness Recognition Award. It’s always a great feeling when your hard work is seen.”

With every chance he gets, Bogle encourages up-and-coming DJs through advice and candid conversations about how they can best apply themselves in the industry. As he forges ahead with building his legacy, he encourages youth to be dedicated to their passions and never to give up. “My advice may sound very simple, but it can be difficult to do. My advice is to keep working hard. At some point, the hard work will pay off, and, no matter what, remain dedicated to your craft,” he said.