Notting Hill Carnival is back for 2023, and it's set to knock the socks off around one million revellers from all over the globe with its famous music, processions and performances. Most of them are free to enjoy, so check out our rundown of the best Notting Hill Carnival sound systems, then head over to this beautiful part of West London and take a look for yourself.
Channel One Sound System
On the corner of Leamington Road Villas and Westbourne Park Road
Draped in flags and pouring out sun-soaked dub reggae, Channel One Sound System will be throwing thudding basslines and quavering notes into the West London air. Boasting over three decades of carnival partying under their belts, the team of Mikey Dread, MC Ramon Judah, MC Macky Banton and MC Ras Sherby has become legendary at Notting Hill.
The team of DJs and MCs will leave the huge crowds swaying and singing all day.
Mastermind Roadshow Sound System
Canal Close
Having pleased the crowds of Notting Hill Carnival since 1979, Mastermind Roadshow Sound System is set to return to its usual spot on Canal Way at the top of Ladbroke Grove. With a passion for hip hop, soul and RnB, the group has developed a knack for showcasing the hottest new talent during the two-day performance, and this year is set to be no different.
Mastermind Roadshow's set usually features some big names in garage.
People's Sound System
Outside 11 All Saints Road
Things have had a slightly different feel at the People's Sound System since the passing of Daddy Vego. Still bursting with character and an insatiable appetite for life, the stage will be led by the famous DJ's son, Dexter Vego. The set-up, located at 11 All Saints Road and dedicated to celebrating all things Jamaican, will play a host of deliciously soulful tracks.
Expect a jam-packed collection of reggae, roots and dub enthusiasts at this stage.
Rapattack Sound System
23 All Saints Road
Come rain or shine, you're guaranteed to see a huge crowd in front of Rapattack Sound System, founded by Master MC and Mellow Milt back in 1984. The urban pioneers behind this hip hop, house, jazz and funk-obsessed arena have established something of a reputation for ramping up the crowds with all the biggest underground tracks and stunning DJs.
Master MC and Mellow Milt still throw some of the wildest carnival parties of the entire weekend.
Latin Rave Street Jam Sound System
318 Portobello Road
Back for another year putting some heat on the main street, Latin Rave Street Jam Sound System showcases the best of South America. Founded by Gilles Peterson associate DJ Sylvester in the eighties, the stage has come to epitomise everything that the street festival stands for - people from across cultures coming together to celebrate the insatiable energy of Latin music.
The Latin Rave Street Jam will assume its rightful spot in the middle of Portobello Road.
King Tubby's Sound System
Clydesdale Road
One of the carnival's most long-standing arists, King Tubby's Sound System has spent nearly 50 years bringing good vibes to its crowds. Packed full of energy, charisma and high-octane tunes, this iconic stage whips up an unmissable dust cloud. Make your way down to join one of the biggest parties on the route as King Tubby's never fails to bring its absolute A-game to the festivities.
Sound system legends King Tubby's return to Clydesdale Road.
Aba Shanti-I Sound System
The junction of East Row and Southern Row
Celebrating over thirty years in the business, Aba Shanti-I Sound System has been hyping the masses across Europe for some time now. He'll be taking over East Row for both Sunday and Monday, bringing you the best of yesteryear's roots, reggae and dub on the Sunday, before laying down the best new vinyl releases for the Monday and delving into dubplates to get those carnival vibes riding high.
As he has over 30 years of experience, you definitely won't be disappointed at this buzzing stage.
For more incredible Notting Hill Carnival events in London? Check out our guide here and sign up to our London newsletter.
