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55,000 Reggae Fans and Reggae Industry folks receive this publication each thursday!
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Volume 23/Issue 5
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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RIP - Drummer extraordinaire, ‘Sly’ Dunbar has passed away
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 Lowell Fillmore ‘Sly’ Dunbar, drummer extraordinaire and co-founder of the revolutionary Taxi Records label, has died. He was 73.
Born on May 10, 1952, Lowell Fillmore ‘Sly’ Dunbar distinguished himself as one half of the iconic duo Sly and Robbie, the illustrious Riddim Twins who revolutionised reggae and dancehall music. His musical partner, bassist Robbie Shakespeare, died on December 8, 2021, in Miami, Florida, at the age of 68.
Sly Dunbar, whose first recording appearance was on the Dave and Ansell Collins album Double Barrel, began playing drums at the age of 15 with The Yardbrooms. He later joined the Ansell Collins-led band Skin, Flesh & Bones.
According to his Wikipedia biography, Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare met in 1972, when Shakespeare recommended Sly to producer Bunny Lee as a potential session drummer for the Aggrovators. The two soon decided to continue performing together, eventually working with Peter Tosh and his band until 1981, during which they recorded five albums.
In 1980, Sly and Robbie formed the Taxi Records label, which would become as legendary as they themselves. It has seen releases from many international successful artistes, including Black Uhuru, Chaka Demus and Pliers, Ini Kamoze, Beenie Man and Red Dragon.
Sly’s credits in the music industry are long and illustrious. From Junior Murvin’s Police and Thieves, and Bob Marley and The Wailers’ Punky Reggae Party 12-inch to Bob Dylan’s albums Infidels and Empire Burlesque, Sly played it all– and did it well.
Sly Dunbar was recognised by the Jamaican Government with the Order of Distinction, awarded the Musgrave Gold Medal by the Institute of Jamaica in 2015, and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Minnesota in May 2025.
He will be missed. Thank you for the beats!
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UK - REGGAE LAND - AUGUST 1&2 - Enormous Line Up!
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 Reggae Land has revealed their full line-up for its sixth and biggest edition to date when it returns to Milton Keynes National Bowl on August 1 and 2. With more than 120 artistes scheduled to perform across seven stages, the announcement proves that this will be the celebrated festival’s most ambitious year yet, with one of the biggest ever reggae and dancehall festival line-ups ever assembled anywhere in the world.
Since moving to Milton Keynes’ National Bowl, Reggae Land has transformed the iconic venue into a Caribbean cultural hub that carefully combines world-class performances with Caribbean food villages, rum bars, flea markets, museum spaces and immersive décor.
In 2026, the festival expands further with the addition of two new stages and even higher levels of production. Across the much anticipated August weekend, Reggae Land will once again celebrate a full spectrum from roots and reggae royalty to dancehall, dub, jungle and carnival energy, all while bringing together legendary names, global stars, emerging artists and scene-defining selectors.
Saturday’s Main Stage is led by the return of two reggae and dancehall legends, bringing their exclusive world début of landmark supergroup The King & The Royals. This unites the King of Dancehall himself, Beenie Man, alongside reggae royalty, Morgan Heritage, both returning to Reggae Land having performed separately in 2023 and 2025. The King & The Royals serve up a unifying live experience that brings together their two Grammy-winning legacies for one powerful, deeply authentic celebration. They will be joined by Tarrus Riley, Barrington Levy and Jah9, as well as Konshens and Kranium.
On Sunday, the Main Stage welcomes one of the most sought after dancehall artistes on the planet, making his Reggae Land début – Vybz Kartel. One of dancehall’s most influential and prolific artistes, he has redefined the genre with his razor sharp lyricism, endless creativity and unmatched cultural impact, with a catalogue that spans street anthems, club classics and melodic crossovers.
Alongside him is another début Reggae Land performance from the Grammy nominated Shenseea, as well as the return of one of Jamaica’s most commercially successful exports, Shaggy, who headlined the first Reggae Land in 2022.
Super Cat, Inner Circle and Mo’Kalamity & The Wizards make up the rest of Sunday’s main stage line-up. The One Love Stage continues to honour roots, culture and conscious sounds. Saturday’s lineup includes Richie Spice, Ken Boothe, Jesse Royal, Samory I, League of Rebelz and Ras Kwame, while Sunday sees performances from Sanchez, Mr Vegas, Alborosie, Third World and Hollie Cook.
New for 2026, the Dancehall Stage delivers high-energy performances and sound system culture across both days. Saturday features T.O.K, Charly Black, Stylo G, The Heatwave presents Hot Wuk and sets from Seani B, Kash & Pharaoh G, DJ Larni and DJ Dennyhus & Prime.
Sunday brings Cham, Serani, Ding Dong, David Rodigan, Becca D, Shayna Marie, DJ Nate and DJ Davda.The Carnival Stage brings crossover energy and bass-driven sounds. Saturday includes General Levy, the Jungle Cakes takeover featuring Ed Solo, Deekline, Benny Page, Navigator and Killa P, Eva Lazarus, Robbo Ranx, Prince Fatty & Horseman, Jamie Rodigan and Sugarkane.
Sunday hosts Congo Natty, Fabio & Grooverider & MC GQ, Top Cat (Live), Ragga Twins Crew, Shabba presents Janelle Wynter, Serocee & Friends, Ras Kwame’s Reggae Recipe and Kaya Fyah.The Dub Stage returns with heavyweight sound system culture across both days, including Mad Professor, Little Lion Sound, Reggae Roast, Scientist, Mungos Hi Fi & Charlie P, Aba Shanti I, YNG CPTN Sound, Sisters in Dub, Saxon Sound, Side by Side Soundsystem, King Tubby’s Soundsystem and more.
Milton Keynes is a city in Buckinghamshire, England, about 50 miles (80 km) north-west of London.
Click HERE for tickets and info
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San Diego, CA - Feb 04 - Josh David Barrett and more - BOB MARLEY EARTHSTRONG TRIBUTE
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Bob Marley Earthstrong Tribute
Music Box, San Diego
Doors 7pm/Show 8pm
21+
The Music Box Venue:
1337 INDIA STREET | SAN DIEGO, CA 92101
619.795.1337
Join us in San Diego for a powerful Earthstrong celebration honoring the life, music, and legacy of Bob Marley — a night rooted in reggae, Rastafari spirit, and conscious culture.
🌍 Headlining the evening is Josh David Barrett — singer, songwriter, bassist, and producer with two Grammy nominations, and former lead vocalist of The Wailers (2015–2022). Known for his spiritually grounded performances, Josh carries forward the message of One Love with authenticity shaped by years touring the world with The Wailers and contributing to the Grammy-nominated album One World.
Audiences consistently describe his performances as one of the closest experiences to feeling the spirit and vibration of Bob Marley live on stage.
🎷 Also featuring Kosine & The $20 Dolla Holla
Chicago-born, Grammy-nominated, multi-Platinum producer Kosine brings his genre-blending live experience to the stage — fusing reggae, soul, hip-hop, and saxophone. Known for hits with Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, John Legend, Usher, Justin Bieber, Nas, and more, Kosine has evolved into a powerful live performer and cultural innovator. His saxophone work has been featured with Kanye West’s Sunday Service and on Chris Brown’s viral hit “Sensational.”
🌴 Opening the night: ShakaMon
Raised in Honolulu and rooted in Long Beach, California, ShakaMon blends West Coast reggae with Polynesian influence. He has shared stages with Fortunate Youth, Matisyahu, Josh Heinrichs, Arise Roots, Murs, and more — bringing high-energy vibes and island soul to set the tone for the night.
✨ This Earthstrong tribute is more than a concert — it’s a gathering of music, culture, and community. Whether you’re a lifelong reggae lover or new to the movement, expect upliftment, unity, and powerful live performances honoring Bob Marley’s timeless legacy.
📍 Venue:
Music Box San Diego
1337 India St, San Diego, CA
FOR TICKETS CLICK HERE
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Five Questions with Singer/Songwriter Rochelle Bradshaw
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 Five Questions with Rochelle Bradshaw
Q: You released not one but two albums in 2025 – "Island Girl" and "Island Girl (The Alt Cuts)" – and your music is featured in the "Roots & Reefer" cannabis documentary. How do these projects reflect your journey as an artist?
A: "Island Girl" represents my full circle moment – bringing together my Jamaican roots, my years touring with reggae greats, and my life in Arkansas. The Alt Cuts gave me a chance to reimagine those songs in different vibes. Having that music in the Roots & Reefer documentary is special because it shows how reggae culture and cannabis culture have always been intertwined. I'm honored to be part of telling that story.
Q: As both an award-credited reggae vocalist and a cannabis brand ambassador who created successful product lines, you occupy a unique space in both industries. How do you balance these two worlds?
A: They're not separate worlds to me – they're deeply connected. My Island Time, Hi Tide, and Lo Tide cannabis product lines draw from the same cultural well as my music. Both are about community, healing, and honoring tradition while creating something new. Whether I'm on stage or developing a new product, I'm thinking about how to bring people together and share something meaningful.
Q: The 3rd Annual Bob Marley Birthday Tribute is coming up on February 6, 2026. What makes this year's event special?
A: This year we're raising funds for Hurricane Melissa relief in Jamaica. Bob's message was always about unity and helping each other, so it feels right to honor his birthday by supporting the island that gave us this incredible music. The Source Dispensary is our title sponsor, and we have other amazing local businesses stepping up. It's going to be a powerful night of music and community in Fayetteville Ar.
Q: Being inducted into the Northwest Arkansas Music Hall of Fame in 2024 is a huge honor. What does that recognition mean to you as a reggae artist in the heartland of America?
A: It means everything. I moved to Arkansas in 2005, and this community embraced me and my music. Reggae is universal – it's not just about where you're from, it's about the message and the vibe. Northwest Arkansas has one of the most vibrant, supportive music scenes I've ever experienced. That recognition tells me that reggae belongs everywhere people need hope, love, and good music.
Q: What can fans look forward to from you in 2026?
A: More music, more shows, and more ways to connect! Expanding my charitable work through The Source's community outreach program. We've donated over $70,000 to Northwest Arkansas nonprofits, and I want to keep helping to grow that impact. And of course, bringing people together – whether it's through music, events, or community projects. That's always been my mission.
Contact: Rochelle Bradshaw | Email: rbhbooking@gmail.com | www.rochellebradshaw.com
IG: instagram.com/Rochelle_Hypnotion
FB: facebook.com/RochelleBradshaw93
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Lila Ike to make Grammy performance debut
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 The songstress, who is a first-time nominee in the Best Reggae Album category, is poised to make history at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards this Sunday as she announced her debut performance at the event’s official opening ceremony.
Attending the GRAMMYs was a very big dream of hers. "Now, not only do I get to walk the red carpet as a nominee, but I’m also honoured to be performing at the opening ceremony. God is amazing,” she shared alongside a poster bearing the news.
Grammys: Sunday, Feb. 1, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, broadcasting live on the CBS Television Network and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+. Watch exclusive content on live.grammy.com
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Seattle, WA ~ Celebrate Bob Marley's Birthday with Live Reggae Music and Culture! Feb 6
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 REGGAE CONSCIOUSNESS Bob Marley Birthday Tribute Concert: Looking forward to this celebration & tribute on Reggae Revolutionary Bob Marley's Birthday 📣 Friday February 6 - This 2026 Reggae Consciousness brings together Seattle veteran bands the Wet City Rockers / Fire Marshall Ventura and Lion of Judah Band
This special night also features Jamaican foundation singer and elder Winston Jarrett performing a set backed by Rootsonic Band.
Join this festive occasion at the big new Substation Annex in Fremont ⚡️with so much talent on one stage, showing up early is Key. Doors open at 7 PM. Support the Vibe by reserving advance Tickets online: SubstationSeattle.com
Rare live performance from veteran Jamaican recording artist, Winston Jarrett, backed by the Rootsonic Band; a Marley Tribute set from Raggs Gustaffe; and full sets from Lion of Judah Band, Fire Marshall Ventura, and the Wet City Rockers !!!
21+ event. Roots, Reggae, Rocksteady & Dub music showcase! Share the Word, Spread the Love.
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Sgt. Remo Releases New Album De Texas a Bogotá—A genre-blending reggae project connecting Texas and Colombia
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 San Antonio, Texas — International reggae artist Sgt. Remo unveils his new 8-track album, De Texas a Bogotá, a vibrant cross-cultural project produced by P1 Records in Chía, Colombia. The album is the result of creative sessions recorded during Sgt. Remo’s trip to Bogotá in May 2025, coinciding with his headlining of Rototom Colombia and their annual Reggae Month celebrations.
Listen On Your Favorite Platform Now
De Texas a Bogotá reflects Sgt. Remo’s evolving sound and his deep connection to Latin America’s reggae and urban music scenes. While rooted in conscious reggae, the album confidently expands into cumbia, dancehall, afrobeats, and roots reggae, showcasing a diverse yet cohesive musical journey shaped by collaboration and travel.
Media Listen/Download
The album opens with “Cumbia Sabrosita,” a lively cumbia collaboration featuring Javier Alerta (Bogotá), Carolina Huertas (Bogotá), and Ras Levy (Mexico City), followed by “Cumbia Galáctica,” a futuristic cumbia track featuring Zelen (San Antonio, TX). Dancehall energy takes center stage on “She Wine All the Time” and “La Número 1,” both featuring Haffid Dancehall (Bogotá) and Ras Levy.
Time Don’t Stop brings an afrobeats influence to the album, delivering a reflective message on perseverance and growth. “Luchar Para Sobrevivir” continues the international collaboration with Haffid Dancehall and Ras Levy, while “Gimme the Roots” featuring Alma De León (Bogotá) and Ras Levy anchors the project firmly in roots reggae. The album closes with “Give Thanks to Jah in This Time,” a spiritually grounded track emphasizing gratitude, faith, and unity.
With De Texas a Bogotá, Sgt. Remo solidifies his role as a bridge between scenes, cultures, and sounds—uniting Texas and Colombia through music that celebrates movement, collaboration, and conscious expression.
Track List – De Texas a Bogotá
Cumbia Sabrosita feat. Javier Alerta, Carolina Huertas, Ras Levy (Cumbia)
Cumbia Galáctica feat. Zelen (Cumbia)
She Wine All the Time feat. Haffid Dancehall, Ras Levy (Dancehall)
La Número 1 feat. Haffid Dancehall, Ras Levy (Dancehall)
Time Don’t Stop (Afrobeats)
Luchar Para Sobrevivir feat. Haffid Dancehall, Ras Levy
Gimme the Roots feat. Alma De León, Ras Levy (Roots Reggae)
Give Thanks to Jah in This Time
De Texas a Bogotá is available now on all major streaming platforms.
Artist: Sgt. Remo; Album: De Texas a Bogotá; Producer: P1 Records; Recorded in: Chía & Bogotá, Colombia
Genre: Reggae / Cumbia / Dancehall / Afrobeats
For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information contact sgt.remo@gmail.com
Follow Sgt. Remo on streaming platforms and social media
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BOSTON, MA - February 10, 2026 UNIFIED WITH JAMAICA Hurricane Relief Concert - Join Us for reggae music and unity
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B OSTON, MA - February 10, 2026 UNIFIED WITH JAMAICA Hurricane Relief Concert - Join Us for reggae music and unity
Reggae Veterans 10 Ft. Ganja Plant Announce Boston Benefit Concert to aid in rebuilding homes in Jamaica
TICKETS
Boston-based reggae and dub outfit 10 Ft. Ganja Plant is proud to announce a special benefit concert on Tuesday, February 10th at The Sinclair in Cambridge.
The evening will feature performances by local favorites: Flying Vipers..and a very special guest to be revealed on Feb 1st. After 25 years of creating music fueled by the spirit of the Island and culture, 10 Ft. Ganja Plant is stepping up to provide direct relief to families devastated by the recent impact of Hurricane Melissa. Unlike broad relief efforts, this initiative focuses on providing immediate, tangible support to specific members of the Jamaican community.
Direct Action: "Ground Work" for Families in Need - All proceeds from ticket sales and merchandise will go directly toward the rebuilding efforts for two specific families whose homes were completely destroyed: Monzar Grant (Westmoreland): A mother and grandmother who was forced to flee her home with her two children and grandchild.
David Lynch (Hanover): A local fisherman in the Sandy Bay district who lost his home and all personal belongings to the storm.
To ensure 100% of the funds reach these families without administrative delays, the band has partnered with Delroy Gray, a trusted colleague with deep community ties, to lead a "boots on the ground" initiative. "We know it’s a long way back for these families," says Craig Welsch, drummer for 10 Ft. Ganja Plant.
"There are a lot of large organizations helping, but we wanted to give back directly to a country that has been our primary source of musical inspiration—a country whose music and culture has inspired so many people all over the world."
Food and Necessity Drive
In addition to the musical performances, the event will host an on-site donation drive. The band’s goal is to fill two full shipping barrels to be sent directly to the affected districts.
Attendees are encouraged to bring:
Non-perishttps://soundcloud.com/lu-cos/crucial-reggae-time-411-oldieshable food items - School supplies - Small household essentials (items suitable for shipping barrels)
Event Details
What: 10 Ft. Ganja Plant Benefit Concert for Jamaica Relief
When: February 10th
Where: The Sinclair, 52 Church St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Tickets: Available at (Insert Ticket Link/Box Office Info)
Purpose: 100% of proceeds go to the families of David Lynch and Monzar Grant.
About 10 Ft. Ganja Plant:
For over two decades, 10 Ft. Ganja Plant has been a cornerstone of the New England reggae scene. Known for their vintage dub sound and deep roots aesthetic, the band has consistently used their platform to honor the traditions and people of Jamaica.
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Featured Weekly Reggae Radio & PODCAST Release Radar - Week of January 26 - 31, 2026
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 Weekly Reggae Radio & Podcast Release RadarPresented By: Hippie-Fari Reggae Radio & Podcast www.hippiefari.com
Week of: Week of January 26 - 31, 2026
Curated by: Scotty (The High Strung Hippie) Fraser – Host Of Hippie Fari Reggae Radio & Podcast
1 Reggae Moods Podcast -Reggae Moods
Episode 326: Reggae Moods Week 04 (2026)
Live Music
2 REGGAEBOYZ SOUND Mitch Agen Episode 2: ISLAND VIBES 1/23/2026 DJ Sets - LINK
3 Reggae Hour E & Zionia Fight For Yu Right: Why Culture’s Message Still Hits Today Live Music
4 Hippie Fari Reggae Radio & Podcast Scotty The High Strung Hippie #59 Cultivated Mind Docucast LIVE @ Point Break Festival 2025 Virginia Beach VA. Interviews, Music Interviews, Music, Live Music LINK
5 Roots Locker Roots Locker Episode 299: Dotsie 22/1/2026 Live Music
6 Island Reggae Luau IRL Island Reggae Luau - 22-01-2026 Live Music
7 Reggae Radio From Japan OgaWorks OGAWORKS RADIO FRESH TUNES | 2026 Fresh Reggae Vibes Music - Link
8 Early Reggae Prime Cuts Felix Stowe Episode 32767: RTTY Dec 72 Into Jan 73 Live Music
9 Dubmatix Sticky Icky Reggae Mix Dubmatix Sunday Soul Session 2 DJ Sets - Link
10 Crucial Reggae Time Crucial Reggae Time #411 Oldies & Nouveautés 2501206 1h DJ Sets
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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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Ini Kamoze “Here Comes the Hotstepper”(1994) Toss Funk, Soul, Hip Hop, & Reggae in a blender and out comes a classic track.
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 “Here Comes the Hotstepper” isn’t reggae. It’s a mashup, a moment where artists were drawing from any styles of music - for this one, it’s funk, soul, hip hop, and reggae.
Looking into the history and origins of this song and seeing the main lyrical refrain of “Nah Na Na Na Nah” taken from Land Of A Thousand Dances, mixed with the core groove of a 1981 funk track by Taana Gardner, vocal hit from The Mohawks’ “Champ” and a few other bits and pieces came together to create a sound that not only feels familiar but fresh.
This was the time that sampling became art. Having begun a decade before, the release of MPC’s and similar portable equipment opened up a new world - Marley Marl being one of the first to realize he could do away with the clinical sounds of drum machines and bring in the human feel and warmth heard on vinyl by sampling a snare drum here, a kick there, vocal hit from that song, bass line from another - until he’d built up a platform ready to create - the very essence of Jamaican musical culture: upcycling, reversion, and innovation.
By the early ‘90s, sampling was in full effect and Here Comes The Hotstepper fell right into this sweet spot. Taking bits from a variety of artists, sounds and styles to create a track that remains just as funky and cool as it did 30+ years ago.
LISTEN AND ENJOY HERE: Here Comes The Hotstepper With Lyrics
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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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:
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Promo Video — Your Video could be here: Contact 775 -846-8238
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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.
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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:
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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
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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 30 – Feb 5, 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 30 – Feb 5, 2026
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Ital Statistics This week in Reggae and Nubian, Rasta, herb and related history
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| January 29 |
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Percussionist Harry T is born. |
| 1949: |
Leroy Sibbles [Heptones] is born. |
| 2001: |
Beenie Man (Moses Davis) appears in the Half-Way-Tree Criminal Court on assault charges. |
| 2006: |
Brent Gayford Dowe, lead singer and a founder member of the Melodians, passes away (dies of a heart attack) at the University Hospital of the West Indies, at age 59. |
| January 31 |
| ----: |
Mizuno Yuichi [Ska Flames; trumpet] is born. |
| 1936: |
Lester "Ska" Sterling [Skatalites; Trumpet, Saxophone] is born in Kingston, Jamaica. |
| 2012: |
King Stitt (Winston Sparkes) passes away at his home in Kingston Jamaica. |
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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
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Distributed by RBA Publishing Inc.
If you wish (and we really wish you wouldn't) like to be removed from this list, please reply with REMOVE in subject line.
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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