Having an early love for music while attending Lacovia High School, St Elizabeth, where among his batchmates was singer/songwriter/producer Ed Robinson, it was only natural that businessman Junior 'Keke' Foster would become involved in the music world.

In 1997, he launched what was to become one of Jamaica's fastest rising sound systems, Alaska, and in less than a decade stamped its presence on the sound system scene.

Now entering its 18th year, Alaska is easily one of the top 10 sounds in Jamaica. Alaska plays annually for Ninja Man's birthday bash (January 24) and has toured the UK, US, Canada and the Caribbean.

From its base in Cockburn Pen, St Andrew, Alaska has earned the reputation as the go to sound for urban and rural dances, sometimes being booked for six events monthly. Regular shows include Father and Son promotions dance every January, April's Vintage by the Score with Senor Daley and Juice Man Promotion dance every Christmas Day in Caviliers, St Andrew.

CEO Keke stressed that professionalism is at the core of Alaska's functions. To this end, the principals have remained the same with all founding members retaining their places. They include Hector 'Kernel' Brown, Carlton 'Dada Ray' Barr, Orville 'Killa' James, Omar 'DJ Omar' Foskin and Bill 'Claskie' Morgan.

Alaska has played and held its own with Stone Love, Jam Rock, Metro Media among others .

Says Keke: "The aim this year is to develop and establish a night for the sound, something we had in the past, but we are going full speed ahead to reestablish it with a new name as well as breaking into the top five".