From Grammy-Winning Engineer to Hostel Owner: The Untold Story of Sylvester ‘Syl’ Gordon

Most people know him as the friendly face behind the Dancehall Hostel in Kingston - a popular spot for travelers, dancers and lovers of Jamaican culture. But what many don’t realize is that Sylvester 'Syl' Gordon is much more than just a hostel owner. He’s a living legend who helped shape the sound of Jamaican music in the 90s and beyond.

This is the story of a man who went from answering phones in a studio to producing Grammy-winning hits and working with some of the biggest names in dancehall and reggae.

The Summer That Changed Everything

Syl left high school around 1985/1986 with a clear plan: he studied economics with math and English and had his sights set on a career in accounting. But life had other plans.

It all started in the summer of 1987. Syl took a job at a recording studio that was still in its early stages of development. His official task was simple: answer the phone. But what truly captivated him was what was happening around him - the music and the creativity. 'This is what I want to do', he realized. That moment of clarity would shape his entire future.

A Meteoric Rise in the Music Industry

By 1988, Syl had entered the music business full-time. With a sharp mind and an even sharper ear, he learned quickly and began to make a name for himself. Within a few short years, he became one of Jamaica’s top audio engineers - a name respected in studios across the island.

His growing success led to the next big chapter in his journey: starting his own studio.

Cell Block Studio Records: The Heartbeat of Reggae

In 1993, Syl opened Cell Block Studio Records, located in one of the most authentic corners of Kingston’s dancehall scene. Him and Buju Banton were partners and legends like Shabba Ranks, Beres Hammond, Capleton and Sizzla passed through his doors. He collaborated with countless renowned labels such as Irie Pen Records, Cylton Records, Music Works, Two Friends, Black Scorpio, Xterminator, Bobby Digital, One Blood and Penthouse Records.

Syl’s name is tied to over 50 number-one hits, including his work on Shabba Ranks’ Grammy-winning album As Raw As Ever. His studio was always buzzing. Artists lined up to work with him, and he had to make sure the front gate stayed closed - because everyone wanted in.

He toured the globe alongside Shabba Ranks and Buju Banton, and back at home, his studio became a creative hub for stars like Vybz Kartel and Shaggy. One of Sean Paul’s biggest global hits, Temperature, was produced right inside Syl’s studio.

In 2017, his contribution to the industry was formally recognized with a Grammy-equivalent honor: the Extraordinary Impact on the Reggae Industry (Engineer) award from the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA).

From Studio to Hostel: A New Chapter Begins

In 2012, Syl began transforming the home he inherited from his parents into a hostel. The inspiration? A group of 12 Russian guests who stayed with him and sparked his love for cultural exchange and hospitality.

What began as a small experiment soon turned into a hub for dancers and creatives from around the world. The Dancehall Hostel quickly became the place to be in Kingston for dance lovers.

International dancers like Colo Colo, Cameron One Shot and Blacka Di Danca not only stayed there, but also hosted dance workshops - drawing global attention and community energy to Syl’s space. Dancers like Chin Flame still do so today.

More Than Just a Place to Stay

Today, Dancehall Hostel is more than just a spot to rest your head. It’s a living archive of Jamaican music history - a place where world-famous hits were made and where the rhythms of Kingston still echo through the walls.

So, the next time you find yourself checking in at Syl’s place in Kingston, know that you're stepping into the legacy of a man who helped define the sound of a generation.