Blackwell founded Island Records; and the worlds penchant for reggae music has been attributed to this excellent foresight of his. Born in London, he was raised in Jamaica and in 1959 turned an initial US$1,000 investment into a major recording industry conglomerate called Island Records.

Millie Smalls My Boy Lollipop was his first major hit and in 1971 he signed Bob Marley to Island giving him that initial and foremost boost towards superstardom. Other rock greats like U2, Roxy Music and Sly & Robbie were also signed to the Island label that was eventually sold to PolyGram.

As a hotelier, Blackwell has established resorts that he says are, for people who want to come and get close to the real organic feel of Jamaica. His tourism enclaves in Jamaica include: Goldeneye in Oracabessa, The Caves in Negril and Strawberry in rural St Andrew.

Kevin Burke, Black Gold Rum spokesman told reporters recently that, Black Gold is certainly Jamaican treasure, we are very proud to launch and firmly plant our roots in Jamaica. The unique and authentic packaging and most importantly the high quality of the rum, give us something very special to share with consumers.