Scratching the Surface: The Quelbe Music of James 'Jamesie' Brewster

James "Jamesie" Brewster, (1929 - 2014), of the United States Virgin Islands remains one of the most recognized names associated with quelbe music, also known as scratch music. It's an "indigenous, grass-roots form of folk music which originated in the US Virgin Islands", says documentary filmmaker, Andrea Leland. "It's a form of oral history, its lyrics are used to immortalize significant historical events, and relay the day to day trials and tribulations on a small island."

Discover the incredible life and musical legacy of James "Jamesie" Brewster. Dive into his influential contributions to quelbe music, learn about its history, instruments, and performances that helped shaped this musical genre.

Homemade Harmonies: Jamesie Woodworking

Scratch Band History: Quelbe Roots

Jamesie and the All-Stars U.S. Virgin Island Performances

Global Rhythms of Quelbe: From the Islands to the World

Behind the Lens of Jamesie's Documentary

Mount Victory | St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands | Jamesie & the All-Stars Performance - Camera 3, Part 1

Mount Victory | St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands | Jamesie & the All-Stars Performance - Camera 2, Part 4

Performance | St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands | Koko and the Sunshine Band and Jamesie - Part 2

Performance | Mt. Bijou, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands | Jamesie & the All-Stars with George Rawlings

Performance | Mt. Bijou, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands | Jamesie & the All-Stars with George Rawlings 2

Performance | Mt. Bijou, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands | Jamesie & the All-Stars with George Rawlings 3

Performance | Mt. Bijou, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands | Jamesie & the All-Stars with George Rawlings 4