From school singer to soundclash legend: Billy Slaughter celebrates 33 years with Stone Love and celebrates GSOG Belt

Celebrating 33 years with the iconic Stone Love sound system, Esran “Billy Slaughter” Phillips has not only carved a place for himself in the Jamaican dancehall scene, but has also become a global ambassador for sound system culture.

At almost 58 years old, he was recently honored with the Guinness Sounds of Greatness (GSOG) Belt for his hardcore performance and dominance in sound clashes. Yet this titan has more to offer than meets the eye: a journey characterized by sports, singing competitions at school and his close-knit family.

Growing up the youngest of seven brothers in the Red Hills community of Burnside Valley, Phillips always aspired to be something great. Sports dominated his early years with an unexpected turn into music.

“My childhood was filled with sports. I played cricket and I loved football and table tennis, but it was a teacher of mine who always pushed me to take music lessons that made me discover singing as a second passion. I won singing competitions at school for two years, and that experience opened the door to my musical journey,” says Phillips.

After completing his time at Red Hills All-Age School, his love for music never faded. He focused on DJing and followed in his cousin’s footsteps. However, the competitive – and sometimes hostile – nature of the DJ scene drove him to new ventures.

In 1991 he joined Stone Love, one of Jamaica’s most renowned sound systems.

Many may wonder where he got his nickname from. Phillips said the name “Billy Slaughter” came from Winston “Weepow” Powell, founder of Stone Love Sound System, after an impressive victory over two rival sound systems, Exodus and Silver Hawk, at the Beachline Sunday event in Hellshire.

Phillips embraced this new title and fully immersed himself in the art of music selection and quickly made a name for himself.

Phillips’ success, like so many icons, did not come without sacrifice. His life revolved around music, and preparing for clashes required intense focus and relentless hours of work.

“For months leading up to a collision I focused solely on music… I just loved music. Twenty hours a day it was all about calling DJs, writing lyrics and turning regular ’45’ songs into dub records,” he recalled.

This unwavering dedication paid off. There were unforgettable moments, such as his legendary clash with Kilimanjaro at Half-Way-Tree, and his electrifying performance at the UK Culture Clash, where he took on multiple genres in front of an audience of around 20,000 people.

Billy Slaughter credits selectors like Rory Gilligan and Glamor Wayne for shaping his early career. However, the student has now become the master: “I idolized them, I watched and learned. Now I can take on any of them and know I will win,” he said confidently.

Billy Slaughter’s legacy in the music industry continues to grow.

“I’ve traveled the world – almost every continent except Australia,” he said, acknowledging the international recognition he has received. His trophies and plaques earned in countries such as the US and Germany are a testament to his impact on the world stage.

His latest award, the GSOG Belt, adds to his legacy.

“It feels great to be honored. I have been in the industry for a long time and… it is very satisfying to see Guinness recognize my work… I am thrilled,” said Phillips.

This honorary award, presented to an outstanding sound system emcee, selector or veteran, celebrates significant contributions to Jamaica’s sound clash culture. Each year, the GSOG selection team evaluates candidates based on their influence, legacy and commitment to the sound system community.

For aspiring selectors, his advice is simple but profound: “Study the business. Learn when to play which songs in a dance. Don’t just rush to play the top 10 songs. It’s about making the customers feel comfortable, letting them enjoy themselves and feel the atmosphere,” he said.

The husband and father of five said the road to success is paved with both competition and community. He thrives in the heat of the moment and always pushes himself to be the best.