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55,000 Reggae Fans and Reggae Industry folks receive this publication each thursday!
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Volume 23/Issue 3
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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Topanga Canyon, CA - Reggae on the Mountain - July 25, 2025 - Tickets on sale now
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 Coming July 25th 2026 to Topanga Canyon CA, the 14th Annual Reggae on the Mountain is back!
Experience the best in reggae and world music in one of the most beautiful and unique venues in Los Angeles county.
Live Music, Gourmet Food Trucks, Beer, Wine, Craft Cocktails, Craft art vendors, and much more!
See you on the mountain. ONE LOVE!
Get Tickets Here
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PIERCY, CA, Humboldt County - Reggae on the River Returns with a Landmark Celebration of Roots, Culture, and Unity - August 14 through August 16, 2026
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 One of the most influential reggae festivals in the world, Reggae on the River, officially announces its return to the County Line Ranch in Piercy, California, August 14 through August 16, 2026. A cornerstone of West Coast reggae culture for more than four decades, the festival remains one of the longest-running and most respected reggae gatherings in the United States.
Tickets for Reggae on the River 2026 on sale now!
A Legacy of Culture and Consciousness - Founded in the 1980’s as a community driven fundraiser for the Mateel Community Center, Reggae on the River has grown from a grassroots event into a globally recognized cultural institution. For over 40 years, the festival has played a vital role in shaping reggae culture in the
United States while maintaining a deep commitment to authentic Jamaican music, sound system culture, unity, and social consciousness. Its influence reaches far beyond the stage, continuing to connect generations of reggae fans from around the world.
The Iconic Reggae on the River Experience
The Reggae on the River stage has a long and respected history of hosting legendary, Grammy Award–winning, and Grammy-nominated artists who have helped define the genre. Past performers include Steel Pulse, Burning Spear, Ziggy Marley, Buju Banton, Shaggy, and Luciano, among many others.
The 2026 edition will continue this tradition with a powerful lineup that brings together internationally celebrated icons and the genre’s most exciting emerging voices. Over three days, attendees will experience a dynamic blend of roots reggae, dancehall, dub, world beat, and contemporary reggae sounds.
More Than Music
Set beneath Northern California’s towering redwoods and along the banks of the Eel River, Reggae on the River offers an immersive experience that extends far beyond live performances. The 2026 festival will feature multiple stages with nonstop music, interactive workshops focused on culture and wellness, artisan markets showcasing handcrafted goods, and a diverse selection of local and international food vendors. Riverside camping and community-centered gatherings create a rare opportunity for fans to connect deeply with the land, the music, and one another.
Ticket Information
Tickets for Reggae on the River 2026 will be available beginning January 14, 2026, through the official festival website. Early purchase is strongly encouraged, as the event has a long history of selling out. For lineup announcements, ticket information, and festival updates, visit www.reggaeontheriver.com.
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Three new Akae Beka vinyl records
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 AKAE BEKA🔥 3 NEW RELEASES 🔥
We’re excited to announce three new Akae Beka records now in stock, courtesy of Before Zero Records & I-Grade Records.
For the first time ever on vinyl, we present AKAE BEKA – VIJAN LP. Originally released in 2003 on CD only, this classic album finally receives its long-awaited vinyl LP pressing. Vijan was produced by Vaughn Benjamin and Tippy I, with masterful contributions from Tuff Lion, Kenyatta Itola, and Dion “Bosie” Hopkins. The iconic artwork is by Marcus Wilson. The album features timeless tracks including All Ye Naashan, Cradle of Joy, and Yeah Many.
Next up is CHARGES, a brand-new 7” vinyl single, taken from the album Polarities. The B-side features a freshly mixed dub, making this a must-have for selectors. This release is #4 in the Before Zero / Akae Beka 7” series, with 13 titles planned in total.
Each 7” in the series includes full-color sleeve and printed lyrics on the back. A beautifully curated series celebrating Akae Beka.
The third offering is IMANDMENT TO HEART, another essential track from the album Polarities. The B-side features a brand-new dub, mixed exclusively for this release. This is #5 in the Before Zero / Akae Beka 7” series.
All records in this 7" series were cut at Star Delta Mastering for super-clean, high-quality playback. Each release comes with a full-color sleeve and lyrics printed on the back, making these instant collector’s items.
I-Roots has 57 Akae Beka / Midnite titles in stock.We ship worldwide, orders of $125 or more save 15%
Order: www.irootsrecords.com/akaemidnite
I-Roots Records - www.irootsrecords.com
Click HERE to read more
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 Reggae Festival Guide (RFG) catches up with Hezron about current projects
RFG: Tell us more about your Save the Children school Tour
H: I wrote that song about two years ago, and it received a lot of attention, including regular morning play on TVJ. But even after all the attention the song received, I felt the message couldn’t stop at the music alone—that I needed to do more to truly reach people, especially children, on their level and in real time. While speaking with a friend from the Rotary Club, she suggested doing a school tour. We planned the tour just before Hurricane Melissa devastated Jamaica, and after the hurricane, it became clear that the tour was needed even more. The song serves as a reminder to parents, teachers, and school staff that we must remain diligent in protecting our youth emotionally, mentally, and physically. It’s our duty.
RFG: Your single "Holding On" Released by Tad’s Record has been gaining a lot of attention, how did you come up with it?
H: I’m a country boy—I grew up with my grandparents, and my grandfather used to sit in his chair and share these simple, worldly sayings about life, struggle, and how people keep going through hard times. “Holding On” came from that same place from my childhood. It’s about perseverance—those moments when life feels uncertain, but you choose to keep moving forward anyway. I wanted the song to feel real and comforting, something people can lean on, and it’s been special seeing how that message connects with listeners from different places and different backgrounds.
RFG: Which countries have you toured lately?
H: For the past two years, I’ve toured exclusively across Canada and West Africa, which has been an incredible experience. This year, I’m excited to be heading to the UK in the spring, followed by a second tour of Canada in the summer. Traveling and sharing music with different cultures continues to shape my sound and perspective.
RFG: We see you're headed to the UK this April, which cities will you be performing in?
H: Yes, I’m really looking forward to it. The UK has been waiting on me since 2019. This April I’ll be performing in London, with additional dates around the UK as part of the tour. It’s always exciting to connect with audiences there—the energy and appreciation for live reggae music is special.
RFG: Name an artist you'd like to do a collab with sometime.
H: I’d love to collaborate with Michael Kiwanuka. His songwriting, honesty, and the way he blends soul and storytelling really resonate with me. I’m always drawn to artists who create music that feels timeless and deeply human.
Singer • Songwriter • Global Soul Artist
Hardshield Records - Kingston, Jamaica
https://linktr.ee/iamhezron
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Las Vegas, NV - BOB FEST - Feb 6 - with Empress Akua and more
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 LV Precision Surgery in Association with Poppa Najja Presents...
Las Vegas - Get Ready for Smash Magazine's
BOB FEST
Friday, Feb 6
Empress Akua and 56 Hope Road
Roots Riddim Kollective, Mojo Reggae, Phynxxx & more
Doors at 7:00PM / Show at 8:00PM
at Backstage Bar & Billiards
601 East Fremont Street, Las Vegas
21+
$25. GET TIX HERE
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Featured Weekly Reggae Radio & PODCAST Release Radar - Week of: 1/12/26 — 1/18/26
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 Weekly Reggae Radio & Podcast Release RadarPresented By: Hippie-Fari Reggae Radio & Podcast www.hippiefari.com
Week of: 12/30/25 — 1/5/26
Curated by: Scotty (The High Strung Hippie) Fraser – Host Of Hippie Fari Reggae Radio & Podcast
1 Crucial Reggae Time Steph Roots #409
Live Music - LINK
2 Living Waters Patrick Sonshine Reggae #284 Live Music - LINK
3 Reggae Radio from Japan Oga / Jah Works Sound System OGARADIO NEW YEAR POSITIVE VIBES MIX 2026 Live Mix - LINK
4 Hippie Fari Reggae Radio & Podcast Scotty The High Strung Hippie #55 Jah Works Radio - The Profound Impact Of Reggae Music On Social Change Interview / Music - LINK
5 Faya Gong - Pull It Up Show Selekta Faya Gong Pull It Up Show - Strickly Vinyl 05 - Jan 2026 Music - LINK
6 Soul Shakedown Party Soul Shakedown Party Episode 981: Soul Shakedown Party January 06 Music - LINK
7 Reggae Hour B.O.S.S. Radio Deep Roots Reggae Instrumental Mix The Healing Dub Experience Instrumental Dub - LINK
8 Early Reggae Prime Cuts Kuky 3 Episode 32767: Jamaican Hit Parade 12th Dec. 1966 Live Music - LINK
9 Riddim Track w/ Spex Da Boss Spex Da Boss RIDDIM TRACK WITH @SPEXDABOSS 011126 Music - LINK
10 Crucial Reggae Time Lu Cos Crucial Reggae Time #409 11012026 1h Live Music - LINK
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On To Zion - We pause to remember those who made a solid contribution to the music industry and bowed out in the year 2025.
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San Francisco, CA - February 21 - Red, Gold & Green: Reggae Legends Live
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 Red, Gold & Green: Reggae Legends Live - Ruth Williams Opera House in San Francisco - Saturday, February 21 at 8pm PST
GET TICKETS HERE
Join us at the Ruth Williams Opera House for a powerful night of reggae, roots, and conscious sound as ReggaeTownMusic.com brings together an extraordinary lineup of artists rooted in culture, community, and creative expression. This event celebrates the global legacy of Black and Brown music while reaffirming The Ruth’s mission to create platforms where community-centered art can thrive.
The stage will feature dynamic performances by:• Prezident Brown — veteran roots reggae voice with a message of uplift and empowerment
• Anthony Garvey — soulful singer and cultural storyteller
• I - Taweh — dynamic artist blending rhythms and roots energy
• Brady Shemar — rising voice in reggae and conscious music
• Donny Rasta — commanding presence on the mic with soulful vibes
• Sir Lion & DJ Hyphee — selectors and spinners embedding culture and community in every beat.
At a time when community connection and cultural expression matter more than ever, this night marks a celebration of music that unites, heals, and uplifts. The Ruth Williams Opera House has long served as a cultural anchor for Black and Brown artists and families in Bayview and across the Bay Area—providing space for artistic growth, cultural dialogue, and shared experiences.
Come experience roots music in a space built for community, creativity, and legacy. Your presence supports our ongoing efforts to sustain programs that empower artists of color, elevate local talent, and strengthen cultural heritage through performance and storytelling.
Ruth Williams Opera House — 4705 3rd St, San Francisco, CA
All ages/Doors at 8pm
By Ruth Williams Opera House & La Fauna Music
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Reggae Month 2026 — “Rhythms of Resilience” - 17 Years of Cultural Leadership
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 JaRIA Announces Reggae Month 2026 — “Rhythms of Resilience” Marks 17 Years of Cultural Leadership
Kingston, Jamaica — The Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA) will publish its official calendar for Reggae Month 2026 this week, as the organisation celebrates 17 years of advocacy and service to Jamaica’s creative community under the theme “Rhythms of Resilience.”
The theme reflects the determination of Jamaica’s cultural practitioners to continue creating, uplifting communities, and driving national inspiration — even amid financial challenges and recovery efforts. “Reggae Month has always been about more than concerts,” said JaRIA Chairman, Ewan D.A. Simpson. “It is a declaration that our music, our creativity, and our cultural ecosystem are essential to nation building. Even where sponsorship support has been slow, we remain committed to producing meaningful, world-class programming that honours our icons and inspires the next generation.”
KEY EVENTS & TRIBUTES
Tribute to Dennis Brown – Hard Rock Guitar Hotel, Florida — January 31 - Presented in collaboration with Vision Band.
Remembering the Crown Prince – EMCVPA — February 1
Staged in collaboration with the Dennis Brown Trust.
Back to Bass-es – EMCVPA — February 4
Rocking the Cliff: Tribute to Jimmy Cliff – Coral Cliff, Montego Bay — February 11
Resilient Praise – EMCVPA — February 18
Bands Rewind – EMCVPA — February 25
JaRIA will again partner with the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts to
stage Reggae Wednesdays, while also expanding the Reggae Open University (ROU) series
to tertiary institutions in Kingston, Montego Bay, and Mandeville with a possibility for Port
Antonio to be added.
PARTNERSHIPS AND ENDORSEMENTS
In keeping with its mission of collaboration, JaRIA will continue to support and endorse
events across Jamaica and the diaspora, including: • Dennis Brown Celebration (Florida) — Vision Band • Reggae Month Miami activities — Inner Circle • Toronto celebration honouring Leroy Sibbles — Kreative Movement Inc. • Wickie Wackie Music Festival — Jamaica • I-Frequency series — first and third Thursdays in February -“These partnerships show the reach and strength of reggae,” added Chairman Simpson.
“From Kingston to Florida, Toronto, and beyond, Reggae Month is a living movement connecting our culture with communities across the world.”
ABOUT JaRIA
The Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA) promotes advocacy, professional development, education, research, and celebration of Jamaica’s music ecosystem — ensuring reggae remains a dynamic cultural, social, and economic force for Jamaica and the world.
For interviews, sponsorship inquiries, or event details, visit www.jariaentertainment.com or follow JaRIA on social media.
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A Message and Music from Dubmatix - Leroy Sibbles
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 Today’s mix is a follow-up to my post about Leroy Sibbles, his life and legacy, which you can read here.
This mix covers a few of his iconic basslines, solo material, including a 2025 release, and a few hits with The Heptones.
LISTEN AND ENJOY HERE: Leroy Sibbles Mix: Studio One, Heptones & His Iconic Basslines
A Message and Music from Dubmatix 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.
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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January Special $avings Advertising Packagess
Contact: info@reggaefestivalguide.com
775-846-8238 (Text or WhatsApp)
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 Dear Artists & Labels,
You asked...we listened! We put together PACKAGES of our best-selling marketing products to help you get exposure on multiple platforms.
Announce your New Music, Tour Dates, Band News, Booking Availabilities, etc. to Fans & Industry Folks around the world.
Pay before January 31, 2026 and save money (Your ads can run anytime within next three months)
Which Ad Package* works best for you?
$850 Package for Artists/Labels (Save $572) Actual Value: $1422
$450 Package for Artists/Labels (Save $360) Actual Value: $810
$299 Package for Artists/Labels (Save $53) Actual Value: $352
Ask about our January Special Pricing for Advertising
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Are you doing a Jamaican Fundraising event for Hurricane Relief?
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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Promo Video — Reggae On The Mountain July 25th 2026, Topanga CA
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EARLY-BIRD TICKETS NOW ON SALE!
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14th Annual Reggae On The Mountain July 25th 2026, Topanga CA.
Tickets available at www.reggaeonthemountain.com Coming to Topanga Canyon CA, the 14th Annual Reggae on the Mountain is back! Experience the best in reggae and world music in one of the most beautiful and unique venues in Los Angeles county. Live Music, Gourmet Food Trucks, Beer, Wine, Craft Cocktails, Craft art vendors, and much more! See you on the mountain. ONE LOVE! |
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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 also 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 and Joana - RBA PUBLISHING & PUBLICITY
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In Jah´s Name We Pray - Positive Affirmations
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Iam loved with no conditions attached.
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My worth doesn’t depend on my success or mistakes.
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I was created on purpose and for a purpose.
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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 -
Jan 9 to 15, 2026
By Richard ‘Richie B’ Burgess
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TOP 25 Dancehall Singles,TOP 25 Reggae Singles, and TOP 10 Albums/CD Chart
JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN
Jan 9 to 15, 2026
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Ital Statistics This week in Reggae and Nubian, Rasta, herb and related history
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| January 13 |
| 1943: |
Boris Gardiner is born in Kingston, Jamaica. |
| 1945: |
Karl Anthony, radio DJ and MC, is born. |
| 1951: |
Clinton Fearon [Gradiators; bass] is born. |
| 1961: |
Graham "Suggs" McPherson [Madness] is born in Hastings, E. Sussex. |
| 1972: |
Singer Sharona White is born in Birmingham, England. |
| 1989: |
Japanese deejay Thunder is born. |
| 1993: |
A strong earthquake (mag. 5.1) strikes Kingston
It occurred at 12:11 p.m. Two lives ware lost from shock and falling rocks. There was a man who prophesied that earthquake. A prophet of Nyabinghi (Rastafarian) who had been arrested for swindle implored the court "Please hurry up judgement. Earthquake will soon come," but they laughed off it. 15 minutes after that, the court was thrown into a panic.
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| January 14 |
| ----: |
Michael 'Ibo' Cooper [Inner Circle/Third World; keyboards] is born. |
| 1967: |
Singer Brian [& Tony Gold] (Brian Thompson) is born in Birmingham, England. |
| 1972: |
Emperor (Hopton Lawrence) is born in Whithorn, Westmoreland, Jamaica. |
| 1974: |
L A Lewis (Horace Lewis) is born in Trench Town. |
| 2000: |
Ini Kamoze and Sizzla have a road crash in Los Angeles.
At about 3 p.m., Kamoze's Lexus LX470 had a collision with another vehicle. Also in the vehicle were producer Phillip "Fattis" Burrell and lighting engineer Scott Brinson. The vehicle was badly damaged but the four men suffered only minor injuries.
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| 2000: |
Hartnel Henry aka Sky High, the MC for Ziggy Marley & The Melody Makers, has filed a federal brutality lawsuit against police, claiming an officer roughed him up and broke his leg outside the city's House of Blues in August. |
| January 15 |
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Musician/producer Sidney Mills is born. |
| 1929: |
Martin Luther King, Jr., activist and civil rights leader, is born Michael Luther King in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. |
| 1956: |
Junior George Chin aka 'Chico' [809; trumpet] is born in Jamaica. |
| 1956: |
Yellowman (Winston Foster) is born in Kingston, Jamaica. |
| 1959: |
DJ Sister Carol (Carol Theresa East) is born in Kingston, Jamaica. |
| 1962: |
Tony Rebel (Patrick George Anthony Barrett) is born in Manchester, Jamaica. |
| 2004: |
Beenie Man is involved in a single-car accident and is injured He was driving by himself from his home in Kingston to Mandeville where he was due to perform that evening. |
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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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 2026 marks the 32nd 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, Irene, Michele, and Melisa
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.
e-mail
Legal Disclaimer
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It will make us very sad if you do, and perhaps your removal will be the one the makes us decide this no longer worth doing at all, and all the information we provide will go away forever and musicians will sit home alone at night and cry because they have no one to play for because no one knows about their shows or music.
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