IShowSpeed surprised to learn dreadlocks trace back to Kenya during Jamaican tour
By William Muthama, May 9, 2026American streamer IShowSpeed was left visibly stunned during his Jamaica tour on Friday, May 8, 2026, after a cultural exchange revealed that dreadlocks, a hairstyle he strongly associated with Jamaica and reggae icon Bob Marley, have deeper historical roots tracing back to Kenya and other regions.
While engaging with locals, Speed got an unexpected history lesson that shifted his understanding of one of the world’s most recognisable cultural styles.
The conversation began when he asked with curiosity: “Wait, so Dreads was invented in Jamaica?”
He was quickly corrected, with an explanation that dreadlocks were not invented in Jamaica but were popularised globally through Rastafari culture and reggae music, especially through Bob Marley’s influence.
The guide then broke down the wider origins, stating: “The dreadlocks come from two different places. From Kenya, with the Mau Mau warriors, who were fighting against the colonialists. And also Indians… Sadhus, holy Indians who live high up in the mountains.”
The discussion expanded further into cultural exchanges between regions, including references to Indian influences such as vegetarianism and ganja, which were introduced through historical migration and indentured labour systems.
Speed reacted in his usual high-energy style, visibly surprised as he processed the explanation and repeated parts of the conversation in disbelief.
The moment added a cultural twist to what has otherwise been an entertainment-heavy Caribbean tour for the streamer.
Jamaica tour highlights
The Jamaica stop formed part of IShowSpeed’s wider 15-island Caribbean tour, which has been packed with high-energy content, celebrity meetups, and viral moments.
During his stay, he linked up with major dancehall artists including Sean Paul, Beenie Man, and Popcaan. He also spent time with Jesse Royal, cooked with Shenseea, and interacted with several local entertainers.
The tour has also featured large fan turnouts, drone light shows, underwater streaming segments, and chaotic food challenges, making Jamaica one of the most talked-about stops so far.