‘An Odyssey in Reggae and Journalism’

Howard McGowan, former Entertainment Editor of The Gleaner Company (1989-1997) presents his recently published book, ‘An Odyssey in Reggae and Journalism’, to Simone Chanpong, a director at Tastee Ltd, sponsor of the publication, at the launch last week at Tastee Head Office in St Andrew.

‘An Odyssey in Reggae and Journalism’ explores the challenges McGowan faced in persuading The Gleaner to provide extensive coverage of Reggae events, and documents his progression from a sub-editor to The Gleaner’s first Entertainment Editor, thereby paving the way for a slew of entertainment journalists today in Jamaica.

This mesmerising memoir recounts McGowan’s almost five-decade odyssey in journalism, specifically his 23 years at The Gleaner from 1974 to 1997 and his unbroken 34-year tenure with the Tastee Talent Trail.

The must-read encompasses his no-holds-barred coverage of entertainment/entertainers and contains colourful anecdotes.

‘An Odyssey in Reggae and Journalism’ also delves into the politically tumultuous period in Jamaica from 1976 to 1980, during which he was tasked with covering two general elections.

This book is not just an inspiration for future journalists and music lovers but a national treasure, as it documents Jamaica’s history and the development of the country’s music industry.