REFLECTION & REASON

I truly believe that Jamaica is the most powerful, deliberate, and infectious national 'brand' on the planet. Yes, I am 100% biased. For the thousands gathered at Rebel Salute this past weekend (many of whom were visitors) at the Grizzly's Plantation Cove in Priory, St. Ann, they would probably agree: Jamaica is in fact a "real place," and a wonderful one at that. Artist Jahsii during his Friday night performance said that no matter how much he travels the world and experiences other locales, that nowhere else is sweet like Jamaica. Incomparable vibes, one might say. Cultural impressions and perceptions of Jamaica tend to be associated with the impeccable cuisine, infectious rhythms, hypnotic lyrics both in music (and in conversation), confident style, and an overall unforgettable presence. Bob Marley and the kaya, too, of course. For those who don't live on the island, word of mouth, traditional media, and social media are go-to tools for experiencing the da...

Live from the ROK Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica on the evening of December 21, 2022, legendary Jamaican artist Tony Rebel and his team launched the 29th staging of the Rebel Salute festival, taking place on Friday, January 20 and Saturday, January 21, 2023 at Grizzly's Plantation Cove . Moderating the evening's launch and connecting with special guests were livestream host Iesha Prendy , and on-stage host Neisha-Yen Jones  from TVJ's Daytime Live. Joined by media personnel and music industry supporters, attendees and online viewers were presented with the weekend's features, performers, and related insight. As expected, the 2023 music festival promises to be yet another impactful "experience of reggae and consciousness and soul," according to media specialist and consultant Carole Beckford . Along with food and love, music is one of the top 3 reasons why individuals around the globe travel to Jamaica. Rain or shine, Rebel Salute will continue to welcome local an...

Everything about Jamaican musician Koffee reassures me that the future of reggae music and culture is in good hands. There were times, admittedly, that I was concerned. Over the years there have been lyrics, trends, visuals, and dance "moves" that have made me question what was really happening to the young people under the powerful influence of dancehall culture. These moments in questions furthermore made me wonder if this effect would overpower the positive vibrations of roots reggae music and the feel-good Jamaican legacy that has transcended international borders based on messaging of peace and love over the decades. And then came Koffee. Much like her career has developed over the past two years--leading her on an international press and performance spree and into the hearts of many--that's how her music has taken a place at the top of everyone's reggae playlist. "Burning" was hot, and had a mellow reggae groove to it. Produced by Upsetta Recor...

Thank you, Rebel Salute. My love, appreciation, passion, and respect for Jamaican music and culture has increased tenfold after my recent excursion to attend the roots reggae festival in Priory, Saint Ann, on Friday, January 18 and Saturday, January 19 at Grizzly's Plantation Cove. As a Jamaican-Canadian music lover and communicator, my presence on the island this year reinforced my dedication to supporting the culture and progress of Jamaica and its people. I've been to numerous live shows before, and I happily invest my money into the live experience of my favourite recording artists. Beginning with Michael Jackson in 1984, to Jay Z , Beyonce, Kanye, Janet Jackson, and Prince...if I enjoy their music at home, I definitely want to enjoy it in a performance venue as loud as possible, surrounded with thousands of other fans. It's the natural progression of appreciation for the art form and the creators of the experience. This includes soca artists like Kes, Machel Montan...