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55,000 Reggae Fans and Reggae Industry folks receive this publication each thursday!
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Volume 22/Issue 48
Media Coverage of Reggae Since 1995
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TABLE OF CONTENTS - Click on it to jump to that section
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R.I.P. Jimmy Cliff - 1944 - 2025 - Reggae legend dies, aged 81
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 It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who have shared his journey with him. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career.
He really appreciated each and every fan for their love. I also wanted to thank Dr. Couceyro and the whole medical staff, as they have been extremely supportive and helpful during this difficult process. Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.
I hope you all can respect our privacy during these hard times. Further information will be provided at a later date. See you and we see you Legend.
Latifa, Lilty and Aken
SOURCE: @JIMMYCLIFF
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Jimmy Cliff, born James Chambers, was a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and actor who helped introduce reggae to the world. His music blends pop, soul, and African and South American folk traditions. Cliff's career highlights include: At age 14, Cliff released his first hit, "Hurricane Hattie", and represented Jamaica at the 1964 World's Fair. He later gained international recognition with the 1972 film The Harder They Come, for which he not only starred but also co-produced a highly influential soundtrack. This album played a crucial role in popularizing reggae music globally.
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Born James Chambers in 1944, Cliff grew up as the eighth of nine children in abject poverty in the parish of St. James, Jamaica. Blessed with a sweet, mellifluous voice, he began singing at his local church at the age of six.
He was inspired to write his own material when he heard ska pioneer Derrick Morgan on the radio - and asked his woodwork teacher how one might go about composing their own song.
So he went ahead and… wrote a song and I made a guitar out of bamboo to accompany himself. By the time he was 14, he'd moved to Kingston and adopted the surname Cliff to express the heights he intended on reaching.
"MANY RIVERS TO CROSS"
Thank you for the music King!
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 Thanksgiving is Nov 27, 2025 in the USA and a time of year to reflect on what we are thankful for. Family, friends, a job, a roof over our heads, food on our table, our health... even the simplest thing like a smile on the street is something to be thankful for. Ever notice when you smile, it often spontaneously makes others do the same.
Look around, share a smile... and remember to be thankful for even the smallest thing.
We're thankful for many things, especially that the Reggae has also introduced us to a worldwide family of like-minded folks like yourselves.
Giving thanks to the music, the musicians, the promoters, the venues, the fans... the entire Reggae "family" that binds us together.
Celebrate the big and the little things and don't forget to share the joy!
Gratefully,
Team RFG
Kaati, Joana, Michele, Heather, Irene, Goran
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FRIDAY NOVEMBER 28 (tonight) IN SF - Sweet Jamaica Hurricane Relief Concert at Neck of The Woods. Join us!
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 Sweet Jamaica Hurricane Relief Concert Friday, November 28, 2025 San Francisco - Jah Warrior Shelter with King I-Vier, Jahdan Blakkamoore, Prezident Brown, Honey B, Anthony Garvey, Xedous, more!
Get Tix Here
Sweet Jamaica Hurricane Relief Concert
Friday, November 28, 2025
San Francisco Bay Area Friends of Jamaica
Neck of the Woods, 406 Clement Street,San Francisco, CA 94118
(415) 622-7656 www.NeckoftheWoodsSF.com
Ticket Link: www.NeckoftheWoodsSF.com
Special Guests:
Prezident Brown, Jahdan Blakkamoore, Jairo, Honey B, Jah Warri, Prince Pankhi, and Xedous
4 Sound Systems - Jah Warrior Shelter Hi-Fi, Jah Yzer, DJ Smoky One Blood Sound, Guid8nce
MC-Host DJ Elijah
Ticket prices: $15 advance, $20 at the door. Door time: 7:00 pmShowtime: 8:00 pm 21+
All proceeds will be donated to the Peter Tosh Foundation - Hurricane Melissa Relief
We are a San Francisco Bay Area collective of friends, (musical reggae artists, DJs, promoters, and behind-the-scenes industry folks), and we are all concerned about the Jamaican disaster.
Neck of the Woods is an independent music venue located in the heart of San Francisco's Richmond District.
Bluefields, Westmoreland in Jamaica is the the final resting placeof the reggae legend Peter Tosh. All donations will go directlyto trusted local organizations and community leaders in Bluefields, who are actively purchasing and distributing food, clean water, and essential supplies to families, elders, and vulnerable residents affected by Hurricane Melissa.
The Peter Tosh Foundation, in partnership with the Jamaica Association of Massachusetts (JAMA) and Jah Workz, Inc., is raising funds to support "Peter Tosh Town"—the community development initiative rooted in Peter Tosh’s hometown of Bluefields, Westmoreland—in providing immediate hurricane relief to residents impacted by the storm. Can't make it to our event? Use Donation link at: petertoshfoundation.org
Donations are needed for the affected community, which is a coastal community of small rural homes. The population consists mainly of poor families and lacks the resources to sustain life at this point in the disaster. Most families lost everything, every possession in their homes, and children had no shoes.
The items we are funding: food, clothing, hygiene products, medical supplies, kid's clothing, shoes, books, small gifts for children in backpacks.
Also need help with temporary shelters: blankets - mattresses -t arps, all sizes (with ropes). All the Friends of Jamaica are sponsoring the fundraiser to provide assistanceto the people of Westmoreland, Jamaica. All funds and proceeds collected from fundraising efforts will go to support their core missions of providing immediate materials and food. Funds will be transferred via traditional banks and an online payment system for the fastest possible disbursement.
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A Message and Music from Dubmatix - Today’s Reggae Deep Dive – History, Sound & Vibes Bass Culture Music Magazine…Gussie Clarke
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From Bass Culture: Today’s Reggae Deep Dive – History, Sound & Vibes Bass Culture Music Magazine
Listen now Gussie Clarke: The Producer Behind Roots and Digital Classics
There are so many artists and songs that pass through our ears, but rarely do we know who’s behind the music. The sounds we gravitate to, that we identify with, and that is part of what I try to do here on Bass Culture - pull back the curtain and find out who helped shape an album or entire generation - Gussie Clarke is one of those “wizards of oz” - a man who helped shape hit after hit, that still spin on turntables and sound systems today. His career has spanned decades, but for this mix, I’ve focused on his earlier productions from the 70s and early 80s, before the digital age of reggae took over.
Brief Overview of Gussie and his life
Augustus “Gussie” Clarke is one of reggae’s true architects, someone who moved effortlessly from roots and early deejay culture into the digital era without ever losing clarity, musicality, or purpose. His story begins in a tiny dub-cutting room at 81½ Church Street, where he cut exclusive specials using a Treasure Isle lathe and quickly realized he could shape entire records if he controlled the rhythm, the vocal, and the final mix. Early productions like U-Roy & Errol Dunkley – The Higher The Mountain and album-defining moments such as Big Youth – Screaming Target and Gussie Presenting I-Roy showed how he could turn raw sound system energy into cohesive, groundbreaking albums.
Through the 1970s, he built a warm, balanced catalogue with artists like Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown, Leroy Smart, Hortense Ellis and Roman Stewart, deep lovers cuts, roots anthems and rhythm tracks that felt soulful and timeless. Clarke wasn’t just making music; he was building infrastructure through publishing, label management and distribution, which gave him complete creative control and the freedom to reinvest in better equipment and bigger ideas. By the early 80s, he was pushing roots harmony groups like The Mighty Diamonds into modern territory, updating arrangements with drum machines and synth bass while keeping the music's heart intact.
PLAYLIST
U-Roy; Big Youth – The Higher The MountainLeroy Smart; Gussie Clarke – Mixed UpGussie Clarke – Funny FeelingAugustus Pablo – Classical Illusion (12” Version)Jacob Miller – Girl Don’t ComeI-Roy; Gussie Clarke – Coxone Affair (2025 Remaster)Gussie Clarke – One WayTommy McCook – The Right TrackDelroy Wilson – How Can I Love SomeoneBig Youth – Screaming TargetDennis Brown – Funny FeelingTrinity – Love The DaughterRoman Stewart – Try MeMikey Dread – Proud to Be BlackMighty Diamonds – Pass the KouchieGregory Isaacs –
My TimeBass Culture Music Magazine is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
I write, research, and create Bass Culture for the love of reggae and dub. If you enjoy it, your support as a paid subscriber would be genuinely appreciated.
© 2025 Bass Culture548 Market Street PMB 72296, San Francisco, CA 94104
Bass Culture: Music, Production & Stories – A deep dive into reggae and bass culture with radio show, production tips, mixing techniques, behind-the-scenes stories, curated reggae documentaries and book recommendations.
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San Diego, CA — November 29, 2025 Hurricane Relief for Sweet Jamaica Fundraiser
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 San Diego, CA — WorldBeat Cultural Center presents Saturday, November 29, 2025 Hurricane Relief for Sweet Jamaica Fundraiser for Victims of Hurricane Melissa
Door time: 7:00 pm/Showtime: 8:00 pm - All ages GET TICKETS HERE
GINGER ROOTS and THE PROTECTORS featuring SANTA DAVIS and FULLY FULLWOOD with Special Guests: Earl Zero, Empress Akua, Fre3sty13 and others TBA
Ticket prices: $15 advance, $20 at the door.
All proceeds will be donated to the Peter Tosh Foundation
The final resting place of the reggae legend Peter Tosh is his hometown of Bluefields, Westmoreland, Jamaica. All donations to the Peter Tosh Foundation will go directly to trusted local organizations and community leaders in Bluefields, who are actively purchasing and distributing food, clean water, and essential supplies to families, elders, and vulnerable residents affected by Hurricane Melissa.
The Peter Tosh Foundation, in partnership with the Jamaica Association of Massachusetts (JAMA) and Jah Workz, Inc., is raising funds to support Peter Tosh Town—the community development initiative rooted in Peter Tosh’s hometown of Bluefields, Westmoreland—in providing immediate hurricane relief to residents impacted by the storm.
Donation link at: petertoshfoundation.org
Donations are needed for the affected community, which is a coastal community of small rural homes. The population consists mainly of poor families and lacks the resources to sustain life at this point in the disaster. Most families lost everything, every possession in their homes, and children had no shoes.
The items we are funding: Food, Clothing, Hygiene products, Medical Supplies, Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Books, small Gifts for children in backpacks. Also to help with temporary shelters: Blankets, Mattresses,Tarps, and Ropes.
Venue: WorldBeat Cultural Center, 2100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, (619) 230-1190
The WorldBeat Center is a nonprofit multi-cultural arts organization that is dedicated to promoting, preserving, and celebrating the African Diaspora & Indigenous cultures of the world. Through consciousness raising, we strive to promote peace within our San Diego community by providing ongoing programs and services that nurture the spirit of children, the elderly, and everything in between. We are focusing our efforts as concerned Global citizens to help the Jamaican disaster.
WorldBeat Cultural Center and its volunteers are hosting this fundraiser to provide assistance to the people of Westmoreland, Jamaica. All funds and proceeds collected from fundraising efforts will be distributed to the specific Jamaican foundation referenced to support their core missions of providing immediate materials and food.
Any funds collected from the event on November 29th will be transferred via traditional banks and an online payment system for the fastest possible disbursement. The WorldBeat Cultural Center will provide the necessary means to oversee the transfer
of funds to the organization.
www.worldbeatcenter.org
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San Diego, CA - 40th Anniversary TRADE ROOTS REGGAE. JOIN US on January 23, 2026
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 On January 23, 2026, The Holding Company in Ocean Beach will host a historic celebration honoring the 40th Anniversary of Trade Roots Reggae, the landmark reggae shop whose influence helped shape the cultural soundtrack of San Diego.
Founded in 1985 by Elliot Leib and Renee Romano, Trade Roots emerged as a vital hub for what was then a radical and deeply countercultural sound.
More than just a record store, Trade Roots became a conduit for reggae’s spirit of resilience, identity, and cultural resistance—at a time when San Diego was undergoing rapid change.
The shop cultivated a devoted following and played a pivotal role in delivering reggae music into the heart of San Diego’s diverse communities. Much of this music flowed especially into the South Bay, where its influence has endured for three generations, becoming foundational to the region’s youth culture.
Today, countless San Diego and South Bay residents trace their earliest exposure to reggae back to Trade Roots’ shelves, speakers, and community presence.
To celebrate this milestone, the anniversary event will feature an extraordinary lineup of international reggae talent, notably in a traditional Jamaican sound system showcase format (meaning music is played by DJs rather than a band):
Downbeat the Ruler (Tony Screw) — The legendary DJ or “selector” known worldwide for his exclusive recordings (or dubplates), deep record crates and rare reggae classics, is headlining the evening.
Earl Cunningham — The renowned roots vocalist returning to San Diego for the first time in nearly a decade, following his memorable previous performance.
Junior “Willow” Wilson — A standout voice from Brooklyn, making his debut appearance in San Diego.
This celebration is not only about honoring a shop. It’s about recognizing the cultural movement that Trade Roots helped ignite—one that continues to resonate across San Diego today. The sound system style presentation is not just a nod to Jamaican music culture, but also a nod to the Trade Roots faithful who became record collectors and DJs in the style of Downbeat the Ruler (and others from Jamaica, New York City, London, and more).
The night will bring together generations of reggae lovers, longtime supporters of the shop, and newcomers inspired by the enduring legacy of the music Trade Roots championed.
EVENT LINK
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New York - Shaggy, Sean Paul Lead Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert for Hurricane Relief
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 Shaggy, Sean Paul Lead Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert for Hurricane Relief
Inner Circle, Ky-Mani Marley, KES the Band, and more to take stage at New York's UBS Arena on Dec. 12
Shaggy and Sean Paul will headline the Jamaica Strong benefit concert next month to raise money for the hurricane-ravaged island nation.
Inner Circle, Ky-Mani Marley, KES the Band, and more Jamaican and Caribbean artists will take the stage at New York’s UBS Arena on Dec. 12 for the event, with all proceeds benefitting hurricane relief efforts.
The Jamaican government has teamed with local cultural organizations — Jammins Events, Irie Jam Radio, and Roadblock Radio — for Jamaica Strong, which will raise money for Shaggy’s Make A Difference Foundation, Sean Paul’s preferred charity Food for the Poor, the Irie Jam Radio Foundation, and the Jamaican consulate’s relief efforts.
“This is more than a concert — it’s a movement,” organizer George Crooks said in a statement. “Every ticket purchased directly supports rebuilding lives, homes, and hope in Jamaica.”
TICKETS
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Ras Mista Fyah Set to Blaze Stages Across America on His U.S. “Infinity Tour”
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 Colombian-born Roots Reggae sensation Ras Mista Fyah is gearing up to bring his electrifying sound and uplifting message to fans nationwide on the “Infinity Tour,” running from December 4–21, 2025. Presented by Carib-Link Touring LLC and Captain Fyah Records, the tour will ignite major cities across Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
A multilingual artist with a commanding presence and deep reverence for authentic Roots Reggae, Ras Mista Fyah continues to inspire through his critically acclaimed third studio album, "Infinity" — currently under Grammy consideration for “Best Reggae Album.” The project has climbed the iTunes Reggae Charts, sharing space with legends such as Chronixx and Bob Marley.
"Infinity" (Captain Fyah Records, distributed by Zojak), takes listeners on a soul-stirring journey through authentic roots reggae. Sung in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Patwa (Patois), the nine-track set radiates positive vibrations and showcases Ras Mista Fyah’s resilience and artistry. Highlights include conscious gems like “Run Inna Babylon”, the reflective “Meh Nevah”, and the heartfelt “This Is Love.”
Adding to the momentum, Ras Mista Fyah recently unveiled Part One of his documentary on Vevo, offering fans a raw and heartfelt look into his extraordinary journey of perseverance and triumph. His recent coast-to-coast performances alongside Grammy-nominated artist Mykal Rose have only heightened anticipation for this landmark U.S. tour.
Fans can follow Ras Mista Fyah’s journey and music on YouTube (@Rasmistafyah), and Instagram (@ras.mista.fyah), as he continues to spread his universal message of love, unity, and strength through music.
Watch "Infinity Tour" Promo Video
Visit: www.rasmistafyah.com
Tour/Booking Contact:
consultlink10@gmail.com
+1 (407) 844-3407
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Are you doing a Jamaican Fundraising event? Post it here for free on our event calendar on www.reggaefestivalguide.com
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Click here to post your FUNDRAISING EVENT on our top-ranking website:
Easy and free.
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Featured Video —Jimmy Cliff - I Can See Clearly Now
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrHxhQPOO2c
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Attention Reggae Artists — Free listing opportunity
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Greetings Reggae Artists,
Please give yourself a FREE link on our top-ranking website: www.ReggaeFestivalGuide.com
Here is the direct link to post your info: (easy and free – takes 2 minutes)
https://reggaefestivalguide.com/orders/link.php
Your info will appear in our LINK DIRECTORY — another way for fans and industry folks to find you!
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Hey Reggae Fans ~ Follow Us On Socials>>>>>
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Attention Artists and Festival Promoters...Use Our Services To Build Your Platforms And Your Following...
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DON'T REINVENT THE WHEEL — WE ALREADY HAVE THE DATABASES AND SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS OF THE FANS AND INDUSTRY THAT YOU WANT TO REACH.
~Also, is your website outdated or not mobile friendly? ~Are your social media platforms non-existent or under-utilized?
~Would you like your name and music to get out there to new reggae fans?
If so, we can help! We have over 31 years of experience in marketing reggae bands and reggae festivals and offer these services and more:
- Website consulting, design and maintenance
- Social media development (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)
- Create descriptive written content (press releases, band bios, sponsor packages, etc.)
- Develop digital marketing strategies to increase your customer base
- Custom Global PR services
- We can build your Electronic Press Kit for you (EPK)
If you have questions about what online marketing techniques would work best for you, Give Us a call today for a free consultation ~ 775-846-8238 or Email
Kaati, Joana, Heather, and Goran - RBA PUBLISHING & PUBLICITY
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In Jah´s Name We Pray - Heartfelt Message from the Editor of Reggae Festival Guide
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From the Editor at Reggae Festival Guide
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For over 30 years, the rhythms of Jamaica have been the heartbeat of our company. From the vibrant streets of Kingston to the sun-drenched beaches of Negril, the island’s spirit, its music, and its people have been an endless source of joy and inspiration.
Our hearts are heavy as we see the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, a storm of unprecedented power that has tested the resilience of the nation we cherish. To everyone in Jamaica who has lost a home, lost power, or lost a loved one, please know that the entire global reggae family is sending you our deepest love and solidarity.
Recovery will be a long road, but we know the strength of the Jamaican people will prevail. We’ve gathered this donation information so that our readers can immediately help with the crucial relief efforts. (Once you find a specific charity you're considering giving to, do your research on that charity or organization).
~ Kaati
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Richie B's Jamaican Reggae Airplay Charts
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Jamaica Music Countdown
By Richard ‘Richie B’ Burgess
JMC Charts -
By Richard ‘Richie B’ Burgess
Nov 7 - 13, 2025
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TOP 25 Dancehall Singles,TOP 25 Reggae Singles, and TOP 10 Albums/CD Chart
JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN
By Richard ‘Richie B’ Burgess
Nov 21 - 27, 2025
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Ital Statistics This week in Reggae
and Nubian, Rasta, herb and related history
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| November 28 |
| 1958: |
Derek [809; bass] is born in Jamaica. |
| 1960: |
Mauritania gains independence from France (National Day). |
| November 29 |
| 1965: |
DJ Blacka T is born. |
| 2006: |
Japanese DJ B-Ninjah is arrested for possession of marijuana. |
| November 30 |
| 1964: |
Sanchez (Kevin Anthony Jackson) is born in Kingston, Jamaica. |
| 1981: |
Mavado (David Constantine Brooks) is born. |
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If You Missed Your Latest (Or Any) Copy of The Weekly Reggae Festival Guide,
You Can Find Back Issues In The Archives
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Reggae Marketing Specialists since 1993 - Trusted, Reliable ~ Creative
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 2025 marks the 31st year that Reggae Festival Guide has been the leading media company in the reggae industry!
Our parent company, RBA Publishing & Publicity, is based out of Humboldt County, CA (formerly Reno, NV). For 25 years, we produced the annual Reggae Festival Guide print magazine. Although we don't publish the annual magazine anymore, we have our top-ranking website: www.ReggaeFestivalGuide (41,000 unique monthly visitors), and this weekly reggae e-publication Reggae Festival Guide (52,000 weekly subscribers). Please follow us on Socials for up-to-the-minute reggae news and music: We have 450,000 fans that follow us on Facebook (please join us there), 40K that follow us on Instagram, and another 9,000 that follow us on Twitter.
We offer you many ways to help you get your fix of reggae music, history, lifestyle, current news, and of course, festivals, all year round.
Our publicity & marketing company keeps growing and adding elements to bring you trusted coverage of reggae happenings from around the world.
We love what we do and look forward to input from you with your suggestions, critiques, questions, etc.
Also contact us to find out how you can promote your band/business/festival in this e-newsletter or on our website.
Kaati Gaffney, Publisher
We also offer Publicity & Graphic Services for bands and festivals:
band bios and interview written, social media management, website consulting design and maintenance, EPKs created, graphics for advertising and social media branded videos, and more. Please contact us to find out how we can help you with your exciting projects.
One Love from our reggae-loving family to you,
Kaati, Joana, Goran, Irene, and Heather
Information - both editorial and advertising - in the Reggae Festival Guide - is believed to be correct but not guaranteed - so check it carefully before you attend any event or send money for anything. We do not write the news, just report it.
Text or Whats App: 775-846-8238; or e-mail
RBA Publishing, Inc. in business since 1995, is a boutique reggae-specific PR and marketing firm based in Northern California. We help musicians, festivals, labels and music-related brands. Our digital campaigns target fans, industry and influencers. We are masterful at email marketing, social media, fan acquisition and long-term marketing plans. Our media services are supported by people who understand and love the reggae genre. Publishers of Reggae Festival Guide magazine and e-newsletter. Reggae industry leaders for over 30 years.
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