REGGAE SUMFEST SOUVENIR MAGAZINE 2023

BYTES

is a mini compilation of interesting snippets on the history of the Festival over the past 30 years.

Reggae Sumfest was established in 1993.

The inaugural show was staged at Catherine Hall and artistes included Dennis Brown, the Mighty Diamonds, Yellowman, John Holt, Marcia Griffiths, Half Pint, The Tamlins and Edi Fitzroy. It was a great success, and, as the saying goes “the rest is history!”

Robert Russell, a director on the board of Reggae Sumfest, was one of the owners of Summerfest Productions which staged Reggae Sumfest between 1993, when it was established, and 2016 when it was sold to Joseph Bogdanovich of Downsound Entertainment. Russell’s extensive experience brings much value to Sumfest.

Multiple Grammy Award winner, Damian “Junior Gong” Marley , has performed on the Sumfest stage several times. He performed in 2009 along with rap star Nas in 2012, and 2013 and most recently in 2018 when he performed on his birthday. Much to the delight of the audience, he brought his son on stage in a very touching moment as part of his birthday celebration.

EDITORFrom the

This year we celebrate the 30th staging of Reggae Sumfest; a significant milestone in the life of any live event. Even more remarkable is the consistency with which the quality of the event has been preserved and improved over the three decades both in terms of the performances and the level of the production. We can, justifiably, claim it to be “the greatest reggae show on Earth”. This is certainly as it should be in the birthplace of the global musical genres – reggae and dancehall.

It is the aim of the Reggae Sumfest Team to make this 30th staging the best one ever. Admittedly, this will be a challenge as the shows have been getting better and better and attracting capacity audiences at Catherine Hall, home to the show for the 30 years of its existence.

This year we have again partnered with Caribbean Airlines (CAL) as our presenting sponsor. We are happy to have CAL on board and look forward to another historic staging with their team.

As usual our magazine will give you a heads up as to what to expect from our weeklong festival which dates from 16 to 22 July. In 2022, we introduced the Community Fun Fest, an event dedicated to family. It was well

supported. This year the Community Fun Fest will be on Sunday 16 July . We will be hosting our traditional pre-events with the Street Dance on Monday 17, the All White Party at Pier 1 on Tuesday 18, Blitz on Wednesday 19, Global Sound Clash on Thursday 20 and the Festival Nights 1 and 2 on 21 and 22 July, respectively. So, Montego Bay will be buzzing with activity for that week.

Our magazine will provide pictorial flashbacks of past performances to celebrate our 30th staging.

The Sumfest team is urging you to join us in Montego Bay to immerse yourself in Our Music, Our Festival, Our Culture this July. Sumfest is nothing without our thousands of fans who make the trek to Montego Bay every year. We look forward to your awesome support, again, in 2023.

MINISTERMessage from TOURISMof HON.

EDMUND BARTLETT, CD, MP

After three decades of providing patrons from across the globe with exceptional entertainment, Reggae Sumfest has undoubtedly earned its place as the biggest reggae music festival in the world. Despite disruptions to its annual staging due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, much like Jamaica’s tourism sector, the festival has rebounded with a bang.

As Minister of Tourism, I am pleased to join Downsound Entertainment and the entire Reggae Sumfest team in celebrating the 30th anniversary of one of Jamaica’s greatest cultural and entertainment events.

The Jamaican economy continues to record consecutive quarters of economic growth, with the tourism industry serving as the driving force behind the recovery. In 2022, we welcomed some 3.3 million visitors to the island and earned an estimated US$3.7 billion in revenue. At present, we are projecting 3.8 million visitors and foreign exchange earnings of US$4.1 billion by the end of 2023, surpassing pre-COVID figures.

This is good news for everyone along the tourism value chain, especially players in the entertainment sector, who have also experienced a significant upturn in tandem with the recovery. I also welcome Reggae Sumfest’s second staging since its return because it provides opportunities and well-needed support

for small and medium tourism enterprises (SMTEs) that benefit tremendously from the positive spinoff effects of major events like these.

The Ministry of Tourism remains committed to supporting the sustainable expansion of our local entertainment sector, which adds substantial value to Jamaica’s tourism product. This is evidenced by our longstanding partnership with Reggae Sumfest through our public bodies, namely the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) and the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF).

As the Ministry leads product diversification efforts across the sector, I charge the Reggae Sumfest team, with Mr. Joe Bogdanovich at the helm, to continue reinventing and evolving, always seeking to give the consumer a more enriching experience.

On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies, I extend heartfelt congratulations to you on attaining this significant milestone. Happy 30th anniversary, Reggae Sumfest and I look forward to another thoroughly entertaining and successful staging!

Reggae Sumfest is not only the biggest ever week-long music festival in Jamaica’s history but it has always served the local community well. The organisers have consistently demonstrated their continued commitment to staging this annual event in the heart of Montego Bay while keeping the local community front and centre in its planning.

This is a distinction Sumfest carries with pride because the businesses that converge and thrive around this Festival in Jamaica’s second city, Montego Bay are astounding. Festivals, which are an important factor in developing Cultural Tourism, includes communities, heritage, gastronomy, and adventure – ingredients which this week-long event fosters.

The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport’s 2020 Covid-19 Report to the Ministry of Finance showed that pre-Covid, the Entertainment, Culture and Creative Industries (ECCI) in Jamaica was 9.3 per cent of GDP employing 5.7 per cent of the labour force.

CULTURE, GENDER, of HON.

OLIVIA GRANGE, CD, MP

The rebound in the ECCI has been swift since the reopening of the ECCIs in 2022: over 16,000 events were recorded between April 2022 to April 2023 and the Ministry has placed greater emphasis on interdisciplinary and cross-cutting innovations.

Reggae Sumfest is a celebration of Jamaican music as well as a celebration of the spirit and tenacity of the Jamaican people, the human capital that will create the shift that is needed to drive sustainable development in our country.

Congratulations on making it through the pandemic and to another successful planning to stage the 30th year of Reggae Sumfest come July 16-22 in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

DIRECTORMessage from TOURISMof DONOVAN WHITE

The Jamaica Tourist Board’s three decades of partnership with Reggae Sumfest has been a harmonious collaboration. Together we have witnessed the magic of music on stage and the palpable effect on thousands of enamoured patrons.

Jamaica has the enviable reputation of being a dream location for events, especially music festivals like Reggae Sumfest, and the organizers have been able to add to the caliber of the previous staging. The all Jamaica line-up has been a masterful decision resulting in consistent growth - which is the hallmark of a truly successful event.

Thirty-year anniversaries are traditionally celebrated with pearls, a gemstone that is extremely rare and highly valued. Like a pearl that is highly valued, Sumfest continues to be a marquee event that is

synonymous with authentic Jamaican music from accomplished music tacticians.

Music has consistently been a strategic pillar that has marketed destination Jamaica with profound success. Our musicians and festivals like Reggae Sumfest have taken our reach and visibility to another stratosphere to unimagined places and people.

The magnetism of our beat has enticed people from around the world and for thirty years you continue to raise the bar reaching new crescendo every year. You truly are the Greatest Reggae Show on Earth

with best wishes for many more great years ahead.

MAYORMessage from MONTEGO BAY of COUNCILLOR

LEEROY WILLIAMS, OD, JP

The legendary Bob Marley once said "One good thing about music, when it hits, you feel no pain”.

Since the advent of Reggae Sumfest, millions of music lovers drawn from across the globe have experienced the energy, the vibes and the allure of this festival, dubbed “The Greatest Show on earth”.

As Mayor of the City of Montego Bay, it is my pleasure to warmly welcome Reggae Sumfest back to the fastest developing city in the Caribbean, Montego Bay.

It is instructive to know that the St. James Municipal Corporation has officially declared Montego Bay “Reggae Sumfest City “for the month of July and will continue to play its part in ensuring that the July 16-22 festival has yet another successful staging.

Over the past 30 years, Reggae Sumfest has provided Jamaica and Montego Bay with some of the greatest entertainment performances ever. This festival has earned the reputation of showcasing only the best and the 2023 staging will be no different.

Music lovers are certainly looking forward to be entertained by the “Class of 2023” and it is my view that their musical appetites will be satisfied at the several events and especially during the two nights at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre.

Reggae Sumfest continues to play a very important role in enhancing Jamaica and Montego Bay as a prime tourist destination which cannot be overstated. The festival has also been playing a key role in the provision of jobs for our citizens. Apart from those who are directly employed to the show, the hospitality sector, craft traders, food vendors, ground transport operators and other stakeholders are beneficiaries – something which is highly appreciated by all concerned.

Let me, again, extend heartiest congratulations to the organizers of Reggae Sumfest, led by the visionary Joe Bogdanovich, for their continued belief in reggae music, their continued belief in Montego Bay and Jamaica and for ensuring that this annual festival remains a major calendar event for music lovers worldwide.

On behalf of the City of Montego Bay, I welcome Reggae Sumfest for its 2023 staging and I am sure that this event will not only be pleasurable, but entertaining and successful.

CEO

of the CARIBBEAN AIRLINES

GARVIN MEDERA

s the Caribbean’s leading airline brand, with the largest network, Caribbean Airlines is proud to be the presenting sponsor of Reggae Sumfest, the Caribbean's and Jamaica's largest music festival. This year, we celebrate a significant milestone as Reggae Sumfest commemorates its 30th anniversary. What makes this collaboration even more thrilling is the extension of our partnership with Reggae Sumfest for the next two years, which is prominently showcased through a special decal on 9Y-JAM, one of our Boeing 737-8 aircraft.

Since its inception in 1993, Reggae Sumfest has continually evolved, serving as a platform for renowned artists such as Beenie Man, Rihanna, Usher, Lady Saw, Capleton, 50 Cent, and many more. This festival holds special significance for Jamaican artistes, as it brings reggae music back to its roots in Jamaica, providing a remarkable opportunity for people to experience it at its highest level within its home country.

Drawing a diverse audience, including Jamaicans, Caribbean residents, the Diaspora, and visitors from far-reaching corners such as Africa, Europe, Japan, Australia, and the USA, Reggae Sumfest unites individuals to celebrate the richness of Caribbean music, culture, and cuisine. It stands as a testament to the power of music in transcending boundaries and fostering unity.

Caribbean Airlines also lends its support to Reggae Sumfest's promotion of sustainable environmental practices, aligning with the festival's mission as a green event with a low carbon footprint. Through strategic partnerships, Sumfest has implemented a structured system to collect recyclables and reduce the use of plastics, further exemplifying our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Moreover, Reggae Sumfest plays a crucial role in the economic growth of Montego Bay and Jamaica at large, fostering a strong sense of community. By supporting this iconic cultural event, Caribbean Airlines proudly shares the best of the Caribbean with the world, reaffirming our dedication to showcasing the region's rich heritage and vibrant culture.

As music unifies people across borders, this collaboration between Caribbean Airlines and Reggae Sumfest serves as a testament to our shared commitment to create unforgettable experiences and promote the Caribbean's authentic spirit to a global audience.

Shabba Ranks performed at the second staging of the Reggae Sumfest in 1994, thrilling the audience by making his entrance in a helicopter.

Fans descended at Norman Manley in droves, with vuvuzelas and flags in hand to welcome Shabba, as after an 18-year break, he returned to perform at Reggae Sumfest's 20th Anniversary in 2012. Hundreds of fans also lined the route from Norman Manley into the city to welcome the well-loved 80’s-90’s deejay.

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In 2009, Reggae Sumfest was dedicated to the King of Pop Michael Jackson. Sumfest chairman, Robert Russell, said "We see Michael Jackson as one of the greatest icons in the music industry in our lifetime. We saw it fitting to honour him at the show”. Several acts, including Ne-Yo, performed Jackson’s songs. Russell said it was important that the top reggae show be dedicated to the top musical star, as the world continues to mourn the famed singer. Jackson passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2009, in Los Angeles. He was 50.

BYTES

is a mini compilation of interesting snippets on the history of the Festival over the past 30 years.

The response was spectacular, with 2017 dancehall night seeing the largest ever attendance up to that time.

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Joe Bogdanovich, CEO of DownSound Entertainment Ltd., purchased the Reggae Sumfest brand from Summerfest Productions in 2016. In that year, the show was staged jointly by the Summerfest and Downsound teams. The changeover was a seamless one and the festival continues to grow and prosper. When Downsound Entertainment fully assumed the production of Reggae Sumfest in 2017, the format was changed from three festival nights to two, and the decision taken to focus on reggae and dancehall acts (local and international). There were many who thought this move was ill-timed if not ill-advised.

When it became clear that a live festival would not have been possible in 2020, the Sumfest team pivoted to present Festival Nights 1 and 2 virtually to a global audience of millions on Friday 24 and Saturday 25, in July. The two 2-hour showcases of talent featured a medley of dancehall and reggae stars and legends including Gyptian, Freddie McGregor, Tarrus Riley, Maxi Priest, Sizzla, Koffee, Sevena, Chaka Demus and Pliers, Teejay, Shenseea, Ding Dong, Agent Sasco, Ishawna and Daddy I, among many others.

In 2022, Reggae Sumfest introduced the Community Fun Fest as another avenue through which it gives back to the city of Montego Bay. The Social Development Commission, Hospiten and the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry partnered with Reggae Sumfest in this initiative. The event was a social and health fair and included rides and games for children, performances by the Herbert Morrison Technical High School Band, and finalists of the SDC Community Stars Competition. Hospiten offered a range of medical tests to the community free of cost.

7 / REGGAE SUMFEST / JULY 16-22, 2023 / 9

JOE BOGDANOVICH

30 of a

YEARS WORLDCLASS

I am proud and happy to have the opportunity to be leading the team on this significant milestone of the Greatest Reggae Festival on Earth –the occasion of its 30th staging. Over the past decade, Reggae Sumfest has evolved into a weeklong festival presenting the traditional two massive concerts on the Catherine Hall stage, four exciting parties and a new event targeted at the entire family.

Festival week kicks off on Sunday 16 July with the Reggae Sumfest Family Fun Day! Reggae Sumfest is not just for adults but for the entire family. In 2022, we came up with the idea to do something that the children could enjoy and so the Family Fun Day was created. It was an immediate hit as the kids were entertained with games, Disney characters, and music while their parents interacted with corporate and community groups and took advantage of the free health services offered.

The parties begin on Monday 17 July with the Street Dance, a gift from the Reggae Sumfest team to the City of Montego Bay, to which everyone can attend free of cost. Established in 2017, it has grown in popularity and is always filled to capacity. The All White Party, hosted by Pier 1, is a long-time favourite and takes place on Tuesday 18 July

Coming up next on 19 July is the all black party, Blitz, another event that sees the fashion conscious coming out in numbers to enjoy the party vibe. The party circuit is wrapped up with Global Sound Clash on Thursday 20 July. This year Bass Odyssey is returning to defend their championship.

On Friday 21 July, the action moves to Catherine Hall for two nights when some of Jamaica’s biggest stars will be on stage. On Night 1 we will see Chronic Law, Valiant, Tommy Lee, Gyptian, Jah Vinci among others, and on Night 2 – Kabaka Pyramid, Freddie McGregor & The Big Ship Crew featuring Chino McGregor, Stephen Di Genius and the Code Red Band, Morgan Heritage, Richie Spice, Minister Marion Hall, and Tanya Stephens among others.

“ “

... a tradition of excellence, globally recognized which pulls people from across the world to Montego Bay every year...

This is truly an amazing offering of music and culture, and I must take this opportunity to pay tribute to the founders of this great festival led by Robert Russell and Johnny Gourzong for over two decades. Their foresight and willingness to invest in an often capricious industry to provide a major platform for the exposure of the phenomenal talent residing in this country. They created a tradition of excellence, globally recognized which pulls people from across the world to Montego Bay every year. Today, it is not only a world-class music festival but a major source of foreign exchange.

As we are well aware, sponsorship is the life blood of major entertainment ventures. Reggae Sumfest has appreciated the support of the Jamaica Tourist Board and corporate Jamaica from inception. Our sponsors have played an important role in our attaining this milestone. This year we are pleased to welcome the revival of Caribbean Airlines as presenting sponsor and welcome them back into the fold.

The partnership began in 2019 but was interrupted by the advent of COVID 19. We are grateful for the loyal backing of sponsors Hardware and Lumber, FLOW, Grace Foods, Tourism Enhancement Fund, Sunshine Snacks, Mastercard, Knutsford Express, Red Stripe, Pepsi, Magnum, Nestle, Pure Country and Prime Trust. We recognize our hotel sponsors which include Iberostar, Half Moon, Secrets, Deja, among many others. Our media partners, including the RJR/Gleaner Group, Bridge FM, IRIE FM, Suncity, MELLO FM and so many others, have kept us in the public eye and informed our patrons of our activities. We thank each and every one for their invaluable contribution to this important festival.

And, finally, the outstanding group of individuals that make up the Sumfest Team who through their combined skills have produced this stupendous event year after year for three decades. I must highlight the amazing effort on the part of this team in staging the 2022 Festival which we dubbed “The Return”, it being the first live showing after the COVID Pandemic. At short notice, with hard work and determination, we were able to put on the festival to great success. I thank you for your loyalty, professionalism and sheer grit.

Our devoted patrons, who make the journey to Montego Bay, annually, make this effort all worth it. See you in Montego Bay 16 to 22 July!

presents

LAUNCH 2023

30 TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

The Iberostar Hotel was abuzz with excitement on the evening of 31 May as Reggae Sumfest feted partners, sponsors and friends at one of its highlight events of the year – the 2023 launch 30th anniversary celebration.

Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Reggae Sumfest are lifetime partners Jamaica Tourist Board and Reggae Sumfest. From left are Maureen Smith, Promotions and Events Officer, JTB; Robert Russell, Deputy Chair Reggae Sumfest; Ricardo Henry, Promotions and Events Officer, JTB; Joe Bogdanovich, Chairman Reggae Sumfest; Lorna Robinson, Promotions and Events Manager, JTB; and Christopher Burke, Media Relations Officer, JTB.

Cameras clicked and microphones activated as the many media representatives captured pics and interviewed Sumfest personnel and sponsors of the festival. BRIDGE FM and IRIE FM were live from the event between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m sharing with listeners at home and in the diaspora reflections on 30 years as well as plans for the 2023 rendition. Suncity, TVJ’s Entertainment Report were among the many other media house working the room. The atmosphere had a red carpet feel as groups and individual guests jostled with each other to get their pics in front of the repeater banner displaying RSF sponsors.

Among the highlights of the programme was the declaration of Montego Bay as Sumfest City for the month of July by Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Leeroy Williams,

Alicia Cabrera (left) and Trudy-Ann Chin (right) celebrate Reggae Sumfest’s 30th anniversary with Mr Sumfest, Joe Bogdanovich.

“With the power vested in me as Mayor of Montego Bay… I am pleased to endorse and to affirm that for the month of July 2023, Montego Bay has been declared SUMFEST CITY”.

Another highlighting was the onstage celebration of the festival’s 30th anniversary hosted by Managing Director of the Hardware & Lumber Group, Marcus Richards.

The celebratory atmosphere was set with the placement of an exquisitely decorated 30th Anniversary cake on stage, along with buckets of chilled champagne. Marcus Richards first invited Robert Russell, one of the founders of the festival and who continues to work with the team as Deputy Chair of Downsound Entertainment, to join him on stage.

Drinking to Reggae Sumfest’s continued growth and success are from left: Marcus Richards, Joe Bogdanovich, Trudy Chin, Ricardo Dominguez, (partially hidden by Robert Russell), Robert Russell, Latoya Lawrence, Nicola Thomas, Alicia Cabrera, Norma Williams, Clifton Ewer, Claudia Artwell, Ewan Simpson (behind Claudia), Martin Lewis, Hugh Williams, Kamal Powell and Sean Williams.

Robert was tasked with introducing and recognising those members of the team who had served Reggae Sumfest for 20 years and more. They were Claudia Artwell, Nichola Thomas, Norma Williams, Worrell King, Junior Taylor, John Swaby, Hugh Williams and Clifton Ewer. He then invited them all to assist him and Joe Bogdanovich in the cutting of the anniversary cake.

Following on this activity, the festival’s main sponsors joined the group on stage to toast Reggae Sumfest on 30 years of excellence. They were Trudy-Ann Chin and Alicia Cabrera of Caribbean Airlines, Latoya Lawrence of FLOW, Ewan Simpson of UDC, Ricardo Dominguez of Secrets Resorts and Spa, Kamal Powell of Magnum, and Sean Wallace of Red Stripe. There was much jollification as champagne was poured, toasts given, glasses clinked and champagne drunk. Kamal Powell toasted with Magnum and Sean Wallace with Red Stripe.

It was, indeed, a stellar moment and one that will go down in the annals of Reggae Sumfest history.

DILLGIN ACTS Opening

NIGH NIGH

RION VENICCI

RAPH-I

DAVIANAH

MR. CHUMPS

HOSTS Our On stage Live stream

BOASY FLOYD, BOOM BOOM, JADE

THE MITCHELLS, KAMILA MCDONALD, NIKKI Z

BACKING BANDS: RUFF KUTT, WARRIOR LOVE

TEEJAY

VALIANT

GYPTIAN

NIGH T NIGH T 2

Friday July 21

JAH VINCI

TOMMY LEE MASICKA

ACTS Opening

CHINO FREDDIE MCGREGOR

NIGH T 2

Saturday July 22

KING

JAMMY Tribute

STEPHEN ‘DI GENIUS’

LT. STITCHIE

CHAKA DEMUS

BUNNY GENERAL ADMIRAL BAILEY

LEROY GIBBONS CHUCK TURNER

PINCHERS AZA LINEAGE

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Several new, talented dancehall artistes who made their names on digital platforms during the COVID 19 Pandemic took the stage at Catherine Hall on Festival Nights 1 and 2 in 2022. Among them were: Moyann, ShellaTopstar, Jaesinco, Teebone, The Pyyros Boss, Jah Fabio, Tishaine, Yaksta, Nation Boss, WesrocK, Lawgiver The Kingson, Frass, Marcy Chin and Khalia.

BYTES

is a mini compilation of interesting snippets on the history of the Festival over the past 30 years.

14

The first Reggae Sumfest symposium was held at the Montego Bay Conference Centre, Rosehall on Friday, 20 July 2018. Several outstanding figures in reggae music made presentations. They included Roger Steffens, who owns the largest collection of Bob Marley records and artifacts in the world, and Copeland Forbes who spoke about the influence of Peter Tosh.

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Saturday, 24 July 2004 was one of the most memorable nights of Reggae Sumfest, when Lionel Richie performed to deafening screams from female patrons. He belted out hit after hit including “Hello”, “Running With The Night”, “All Night Long”, “Penny Lover”, “You Are” and “Easy”.

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Beenie Man has performed on the Sumfest stage over 20 times! He was honoured as a Sumfest Legend in 2018 at Reggae Sumfest’s first Inspire Award Ceremony. Beenie man performed with Bounty Killer, Spragga Benz, Cham, Wayne Wonder, Frisco Kid and Mr Easy on Festival Night 2 2022 in the tribute to Dave Kelly.

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The first free street dance was held in 2018 at the Old Hospital Park. The event is a gift to the people of Montego Bay. It was done in conjunction with the Montego Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This street dance has become very popular on the schedule of Festival events. The winner of the 2019 Global Sound Clash was the Germany-based Warrior Sound. Sound systems in the competition were Ricky Trooper, Pink Panther, Warrior Sound, Yaad Beat Sound and King Turbo. In 2022, Warrior Sound defended their title against Mystic Sound from Canada, Silver Hawk and Base Odyssey from Jamaica and Exodus Nuclear from Guyana. Bass Odyssey walked away the winners of that event.

We pay special tribute to team members who have served Reggae Sumfest for over 20 years

1. Martin Lewis 2. Worrell King 3. Claudia Artwell 4. Norma “Sharon” Williams

5. Clifton Ewer 6. Hugh Williams 7. Nicola Thomas 8. Junior Taylor and 9. John Swaby

Sumfest Team

REGGAE SUMFEST UNITING

MUSIC , PEOPLE & CULTURE

TOP LEFT (from left): Robert Livingston, Marcus Richards, Joe Bogdanovich, Barrington Daley, Robert Russell.

BACK ROW (from left): Ava Rowe, Robert Chantrelle, Martin Lewis, Jermaine Jackson, Dwight “Bub” James, Heather Effs, Dealo “Jordan” Gordon, Joey Bogdanovich, Cordell “Skatta” Burrell, Karla Jankee, Tara Playfair, Worrell King, Eulah “Chin” Bailey, Leemour Palmer, Donald Rodney, Norman Myers.

FRONT ROW (from left): Maxine McDonnough, Michele Lewis, Aldria Grant, Claudia Artwell, Norma “Sharon” Williams, Leeann Dunkley, Tracey Hamilton, Marcia McDonnough, Courtney Robinson.

INSET - LEFT TO RIGHT: (Back Row) Clifton Ewer, Kamau Janai, Roger Maxwell, Robin Russell, Catherine Goodall, (Front Row) Hugh Williams, Nicola Thomas, Junior Taylor, Ginelle Pennycook, Phil Wild, Sepp Donahower, Anna-Kaye Russell, Jason Russell, Antonio Peterkin, Peter Stuart, John Swaby and Joanne Taitt.

SPONSORS Our

SPONSORS Our

SPONSORS Our

GREEN GOING SUMFEST REGGAE Committed to

Reggae Sumfest made a commitment to Go Green in 2017, in keeping with the global call to reduce waste and to recycle plastic. There was also an awareness that large festivals created major waste. The team believed that as the largest festival in Jamaica, it was important to help in spreading the word about protecting our environment.

Our first action was to introduce a recycling initiative at all festival events with the separation and collection of plastic in 2019. We partnered on this initiative with Recycling Partners of Jamaica (RPJ) who provided invaluable guidance and education. Since then, the Reggae Sumfest team has been separating waste and collecting plastic for recycling at all festival events. Patrons are encouraged to bring their re-usable cups to the festival to cut down on the use of plastic. Food vendors have been sensitised to increase the use of containers that are environmentally friendly.

Reggae Sumfest values the support we have been getting from sponsors. One of our premier sponsors Hardware and Lumber has been invaluable in providing some of the equipment needed to collect waste.

Our flagship environmental project is the annual clean up of the Catherine Hall Beach. This location has hosted the festival for three decades and we believe that as a major stakeholder we should extend our care and protection to the beach which is a part of the property. For the first year of the clean up, in 2019, we undertook the cleanup on our own but, nevertheless, did a commendable job. On our second venture, in 2022, after the enforced COVID-19 break, we invited sponsors, entertainers and friends located in Montego Bay to partner in our effort. Their support was overwhelming, growing our team from 50 individuals to approximately 250 and cleaning the beach of over 2000lbs of plastic as well as other garbage including tires.

In 2023, a team of over 300 collected just under 1,000lbs of plastic, and 450lbs of garbage off the beach and over 450lbs of garbage from the coastal seabed. The latter was facilitated by our new environmental partner, Esirom, who used a pontoon, a platform equipped with nets and a wing to collect the debris from the shallow waters and seafloor.

REGGAE SUMFEST THANKS ALL OUR PARTNERS IN OUR BEACH CLEAN UP ACTIVITIES OVER THE PAST THREE YEARS

Recycling Partners of Jamaica, Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, St James Municipal Corporation, National Waste Management Authority (WPM Waste Management), Hardware & Lumber, Iberostar, Secrets/Breathless, Pepsi, Margaritaville, FLOW, Island Strains, Wisynco, Gentle Care Emergency, Services, Dre Zee, Caribbean Airlines, Nestle, Chester’s Chicken, Sunshine Snacks, Knutsford Express, Magnum, Gleaner/ Star, Maggi and Tortuga, Social Development Corporation and WATA.

presents Backing

BANDS

WARRIOR LOVE AND RUFF KUTT

Warrior Love and Ruff Kutt bands have been backing Reggae Sumfest performers for more than a decade. Our photographers from Esirom dropped in on rehearsal sessions to share a closer look at the musicians who have been significant pillars of the festival.

WARRIOR LOVE

JOSEPH GRAHAM (Top Left) Bass Guitar and Band Leader

GLENDON CLARKE (Left) Drums

MIGUEL EDWARDS (Top Right) Lead Guitar

TARIQUE FOSTER (Right) Keyboard 1

JERMAINE WILLIAMS (Top Middle) Keyboard 2

presents Backing

BANDS

RUFF KUTT

Drums

DONOVAN BELNAVIS

(Bottom Right)

Bass Guitar

PAUL GREEN

(Bottom Left)

Bass Guitar

RICARDO DAVIS (Left)

NIGEL STAFF

(Top Right)

Band Leader & Keyboard 1

BRENTON HAUGHTON (Top Right) Keyboard 2

The

FOOD presents Experience

INDULGE IN THE PERFECT HARMONY OF

TUNES and TASTES

The culinary offerings at Reggae Sumfest have always been a hit. Throughout the years, we have showcased an array of mouthwatering Jamaican delights – from the classic combination of succulent fried chicken and rice and peas –to the aromatic flavours of curried goat and the comforting goodness of corn soup. The menu also boasts delightful options like conch soup, ackee and saltfish, and escoveitch fish. As the festival has grown, so has the variety of choices, with a surge in the number of food vendors catering to the expanding crowd. Nowadays, you can relish popular favourites like pasta, pizza, hot dogs, chicken and

fries, vegetarian dishes, tantalizing lobster, and even flavourful Indian cuisine. And of course, no feast is complete without the inclusion of beloved sweet treats and delectable puddings.

In 2017, Grace Foods joined forces as the proud sponsor of the Food Court, adding an extra layer of culinary flair to the experience. Today, restaurants, cookshops, caterers, and fast-food establishments, all vie for a spot in the prestigious Reggae Sumfest Food Courts. The eclectic mix of food vendors sees long-standing suppliers such as Hermine's Homestyle, a cherished participant since 1993, standing shoulder to shoulder with fresh new faces.

The festival organizers are continually redesigning the venue to ensure maximum comfort for patrons. The property now boasts three strategically located food courts, ensuring that no matter where you find yourself on the Catherine Hall grounds, a delectable feast is always within reach.

ONE DASH HOT & SPICY

Friday Saturday

Soup, Festival, Fried Sweet Potatoes

Jerk Chicken, Steam Veg, Raw Veg

Bar-B-Fried Chicken, Potato Salad

Fish in Coconut Sauce, Escovitch Steam Fish

Ackee & Saltfish, Rice & Peas, Roast Breadfruit

Fried Plantain

LOADED POTATO & FRIES

Friday Saturday

Loaded - Burgers / Fries / Sandwiches

YARD SPICE

Friday Saturday

Curry Goat

Fried Chicken

Jerk Chicken

Fried Fish

Curry Conch

Mannish Water

Ackee & Saltfish

Sides - Roast Breadfruit, Rice & Peas, Festival, Plain Rice, Bammy

GRACE

876 D'LYSHUSNEZ

Friday Saturday

Steamed, Roast & Escoveitched FISH

Escovitch / Coconut Lobster

Shrimp Kebab and Spicy Garlic Shrimp

Pot Roast Pork

Vegan Stew

Corn Soup

Crab

CHICKEN & TINGS

Friday Saturday

Pineapple Chicken

Chicken Steak

Crispy Fried Chicken

Chicken Wraps

Brown Stew Fish Fillet

Jerk Pork Tacos

Spicy Chicken Sandwich

Cook Up Saltfish & Pressed Plantains

Steam Fish

Fried Chicken

Fried Fish

Jerk Chicken

Ackee and Saltfish

Mackerel Run-down

Cray Fish soup

Sides - Roast Breadfruit, Rice & Peas, Bammy, Festival

FOOD COURT

QUICK FIX FOOD SHOP (SABIOSSO)

Friday Saturday

Combo 1 - Hot dog, Fries, Veggies, Wrap, Fish Fingers

Combo 2 - Burger & Fries/Loaded Fries, Tossed Salad, Apple

Slices

Slides - Quesadilla, Fritters & Wings

Soup

Hot dogs

Combo - Jerk Chicken, Festival, Plantain & Stamp n Go

Roast Fish, Bammy & Tossed Salad

Curry Goat, Roti, Plantains

Soup

HERMINES HOME STYLE

Friday Saturday

Curry Conch

Steam Fish

Stew Pork

Brown Stew Chicken

Jerk Chicken

Crayfish Soup

MORDES

Friday Saturday

Chicken Fish

Fries

Wedges

YOUR CHOICE

HAPPY BREW

Friday Saturday

Coffee/Tea

Fresh Fruits

Cocktail Patties

Sandwiches

Pastries (Cookies, Cakes, Etc)

Blended Juices & Smoothies

Friday Saturday

Jerk Chicken

Ackee & Saltfish

Curry Goat

Crayfish Soup

Mannish Water

Jerk Pork

Jerk Chicken

Ackee & Corned Pork

Fish

FOOD COURT 1

PARIS RUBY GOURMET CAFE

Friday Saturday

Pastry Items

Hot Sandwiches

Brewed Coffees

Natural Juices

Jerk Chicken & Festival

Escovitch Fish & Bammy Soup

Smoothies

PLANTATION SMOKE HOUSE

Friday Saturday

Goat Soup

Jerked Chicken / Festival

Jerked Pork/Bammy Sticks

BBQ Ribs/ Green Plantains

Fish & Chips

POPCORN CITY / BURGER WORLD

Friday Saturday

Burger

Hot Dog - Chilli, Full House, Crazy Dog, Pineapple

Combo with Fries

Nachos - Popcorn

Wrap

Fruit Smoothies - Jamba, Coco Chukko

Snowcone

Cone Slushies

Goat Soup

Grilled Lobster

Shrimp Pasta

Jerked Chicken/Festival

Jerked Pork/Bammy Sticks

Fish & Chips

BBQ Ribs/ Mac & Cheese

Green Plantains

ALLESANDROS CATERING SERVICES

Friday Saturday

Jerk Chicken, Jerk Pork

Stuffed Roast Fish

Mannish Water

Veg Soup

Curried Goat

Escovitch Fish

Pepper Shrimp

Bar B Fried Chicken

Jerk Chicken, Jerk Pork

Stuffed Roast Fish

Cow Cod Soup

Veg Soup

Curried Goat

Escovitch Fish

Curry Conch

Bar B Fried Chicken

FOOD COURT 1

ROTI KING

Friday Saturday

Curry Hosh

Curry Chicken

Curry Fish

Curry Shrimp

Curry Ven

Served with Roti & Herbal Rice

Butter Chicken

Rohan Hosh Mutton

Tandoori Fish

Tandoori Chicken

Fish + Chicken Tikka

Served with Nan + Roti

TACO SPOT

Friday Saturday

Chicken Flauras

Pork, Beef, Chicken & Veggie Tacos

Quesadillas

Gringas

Churros & Flan

Volcanoes

SUNSHINE RESTAURANT

Friday Saturday

Curried Reindeer

Conch

Lobster - Boiled, Grilled

Rotisserie Chicken

Fry Chicken

Steam Fish, Fried Fish

Soup - Manish water, Conch & Crayfish, Ital Sip

Sides - Fried Plantain. Gungo peas & Rice, Bammy, Festival

Brown Stew Reindeer

Grilled Pork

Curried Conch

Jerk Pork

Curried Goat

Jerk Chicken

Soup - Fish Tea, Red Peas, Pumpkin

Sides - Fried Plantain, Rice & Peas, Bammy, Festival, Roti

FOOD COURT 2

ALKALINE ITAL

Friday Saturday

Ackee Stew

Ital Stew

Curry Jackfruit with Broad Beans

Mushroom Delight

Veggie Burger with Fries

Sip

Vegan Pizza

Ackee Stew

Mushroom Delight

Ital Stew

Veggie Burger with Fries

Sip

HAPPY SNACKS

Friday Saturday

Cow foot soup

Roasted Yam & Salt

Mackerel

Ackee & Saltfish

Wings

Saltfish Firitters

Fry Chicken & Fries

Hot dogs

SCOTCHIES & CHESTERS FRY CHICKEN

Friday Saturday

Jerk Pork

Jerk Chicken

Fish

Fried Chicken Sides

Mannish Water, Cow Foot Soup

Ackee & Saltfish

Fry Fish & Festival, Bammy

Saltfish Fritters

Wings

Fry Chicken & Fries

Hot Dogs

FOOD COURT 2

ROAST HOUSE

Friday Saturday

Mannish Water

Jerk Chicken

Ackee & Saltfish

Salt Mackerel

Roast Fish

Curry Seafood MIx

Escovitch Saltfish

Sides - Boil Corn, Roast Corn, Roast Yam, Roast Sweet Potato, Roast Breadfruit, Fry Green Plantain, Fry Dumplin, Boil Food, Rice

Corn Dog

DRE ZEE KITCHEN

Friday Saturday

Fried - Fish, Lobster, Shrimp

Curried - Lobster, Conch, Shrimp

Roasted - Fish, Conch, Breadfruit

Ackee & Saltfish with Ground Provision

Festival, Fries, Plantains

Seafood Soup

RECAP 2022

RECAP 2022

RECAP 2022

RECAP 2022

RECAP 2022

TREASURES JAMAICAof

AUTHENTIC PRODUCTS UNVEILED AT

From its inception, Reggae Sumfest has served as a remarkable platform for showcasing the exceptional talents of Jamaican artisans, designers, and jewellers. It stands as a vibrant marketplace, serving thousands of visitors, including many from the Jamaican diaspora, who converge at Catherine Hall year after year.

Carefully curated, only the finest selection of Jamaican products finds its place within the festival's grounds. A host of esteemed merchants have graced the event including Purple Jade Bresheh, Chrissy's Coils, Bartley's Woods, Tortuga, Anita's Craft, and Cooyah among many others. Within the inviting booths, shoppers are afforded the luxury of exploring at their leisure while enjoying the convenience of various payment options, including cash, credit, and debit cards.

In 2019, an exciting collaboration with Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), the Tourism Linkages Network (TLN) gave birth to the Artisan Village within the festival space. This powerful alliance has not only expanded the presence of talented artisans at the festival but has also enabled the TEF and TLN to fulfil their mission of connecting tourists with the exquisite creations of skilled Jamaican craftsmen and artisans.

The Artisan Village embodies Reggae Sumfest's commitment to promoting Jamaican merchandise while also offering patrons the opportunity to embrace unique treasures steeped in authentic Jamaican culture.

presents

LIVEHIGH JAMAICA partners with FOR

30TH ANNIVERSARY MERCH

Reggae Sumfest has teamed up with LiveHigh Jamaica a streetwear and lifestyle brand to produce a series of five distinctive T-Shirts designs to commemorate the festival’s 30th anniversary. According to CEO Andre Livingston the designs have different objectives. Some represent reggae music and the festival in a literal and overt way by presenting iconic images of the reggae and dancehall space such as the sound system and direct reference to the 30th anniversary. Others attempt to share the deeper elements of the musical experience which reach into the psyche and the soul. As Bob Marley asserted in ‘Trench Town Rock’ – “One good thing about music, when it hits you feel no pain”. Livingston notes that the subtlety of the colour scheme is intended to present the unexpected and so stayed away from the usual renditions of Reggae Sumfest iconography – red, green and gold.

Be sure to pick up your shirts at Reggae Sumfest!

Photo credit; Demario Hines

ROBERT RUSSELL presentsshares

Robert Russell, deputy chair and director of the Reggae Sumfest Board, has the distinction of being THE ONLY PERSON TO HAVE BEEN WITH THE FESTIVAL FROM THE CONCEPTION UNTIL TODAY.

Robert was one of the visionary and courageous cadre of Montego Bay businessmen who recognised the need to fill the void left by Sunsplash when that show pulled out of the city in 1993. They came together and created Reggae Sumfest. Thirty years later, the Reggae Sumfest Festival has evolved into a weeklong festival and continues to be the largest reggae show in the Caribbean and the “Greatest Reggae Show on Earth”.

Over 30 years, Robert has an abundance of memories of the good times and the challenges that executing such a festival must naturally involve. HE SHARES A FEW HERE.

It was the Friday afternoon of the show in which Boyz II Men were slated to perform. I received a call from the immigration officer at the Norman Manley Airport in Kingston telling me that this group had arrived but they had no permit to perform in Jamaica and so he was sending them back on the next flight. My office had failed to get the proper documentation in place, so I asked for some time and immediately called the Ministry of Labour to speak with Minister Portia Simpson. By that time the offices had closed, and she had gone home. I called her at home and explained the situation. Without hesitation, she went back into the office and got the relevant people to come in to prepare the permits. She signed the documents, and I sent a driver to pick them up and take them to immigration at the airport.

The group’s performance was outstanding!

I recall a Thursday, Dancehall Night, when it poured the entire day and into the night. My directors felt that there was no choice but to call off the festival. I disagreed. I felt that the rain would hold up in time for people to come out to the show and convinced them that we should go ahead. That year, TVJ was broadcasting live from the venue, so I went to their booth and asked them to allow me to make an announcement.

I advised all patrons coming to the show that the rain had held up and the show was on. In fact, a performer was already on stage. The people did not disappoint me. They poured into Catherine Hall and we enjoyed one of the best attendances we ever had.

I remember calling Paul Marshalleck, who had a quarry, and asking him to send several truckloads of stones which I spread in front of the vendors’ stalls to allow members of the audience to access them. It was a momentous occasion and demonstrated the importance of having faith and courage to make the unpopular decision and to forge ahead.

Another occasion on which I had major pushback from directors was my decision to book Lionel Richie for a show. International artistes were expensive, and the fear was that he would not have been able to pull the crowd to make the venture a financial success. The feeling was that he was not well known in Jamaica and didn’t have the necessary appeal for our audience. However, I was determined to have him and so proceeded with the booking. He was amazing. The crowd loved him. They were singing every word of every song. In fact, he stopped singing at a point and told the audience that he was unable to keep up with them. It was an outstanding success!

We became good friends after that performance and I later brought him back to perform at the Jazz and Blues Festival.

I remember another time when Dennis Brown was slated to end the show. Dennis was nowhere to be found on the venue. Finally, we were told that he was spotted in Ironshore. I jumped in my car and went to Ironshore to get him. We got back to Catherine Hall just in time for him to take the stage.

One of my greatest satisfactions, over the years, is the role that Reggae Sumfest has played in being a launch pad for so many of our successful artistes. I had to fight to get Beenie Man 15 minutes on stage for his first performance at the Festival. The rest is history. He is, to date, the artiste that has performed most often on the Sumfest stage, sometimes without being booked and without being paid.

On another occasion, I was asked by Pops Morgan to allow a small band to play at one of our New York launches. That band is known as Morgan Heritage today.

We have had major challenges over the years and also many high points and many successes. Most important to me is the contribution that the festival makes to the economy of Montego Bay and the country as a whole. It brings in some 10,000 visitors for the week of events and generates approximately J$3 billion in income. The spend impacts people at all levels. The hotel sector – large and small properties; restaurants, craft vendors, food vendors. Many people use the money they earn to pay back-to-school expenses for their children. For our part we have consistently encouraged and supported the development of music among the youngsters, as music is a perfect avenue for self development.

I take this opportunity to encourage corporate Jamaica and the government to provide opportunities for training for young and upcoming musicians. Jamaicans are immensely talented as evidenced by Bob Marley, Beres Hammond, Dennis Brown, Sean Paul and so many others.

Mega stars Rihanna, Chris Brown, Usher, Toni Braxton, Common, the one and only Lionel Ritchie, and Beyonce (as part of Destiny’s Child) have all performed on the Sumfest stage.

Since 2018, Reggae Sumfest has enjoyed the sponsorship of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), which is responsible for linking tourists with the products of Jamaican artisans. Reggae Sumfest, which brings in thousands of tourists from all over the world, presented the ideal channel through which to make this connection. The partnership has been successful in realizing the objectives and several artisans and craftsmen have benefited from the exposure facilitated by Sumfest.

16 17 18

Buju Banton gave an unforgettable performance on Saturday, 20 July 2019 at Reggae Sumfest. Fans came out in their thousands, some from as far away as Sweden, to see this megastar of dancehall. According to a Gleaner reporter, “When Banton touched down on the stage at 4:55 on Sunday morning, his first 10 minutes were a blissful blur as he basked in the reception, his audience all too happy to give it”. It was the artiste’s second performance in Jamaica after his return.

I am proud to have been a part of this amazing venture which has changed the face of music in Jamaica, the region and globally.

REGGAE SUMFEST VENUE MAP

Be Pampered in the Ultra VIP and Luxe Lounges at Reggae Sumfest

ULTRA VIP seat patrons will have ease of entry and exit in and out of the venue, access to private restroom facilities, and access to food court and bars which are in close proximity. They will also have access to the AR Booth and Artisan Village in the general area. The seats, which are some of the best in the house, are numbered and reserved to ensure that your space is secure as you come and go. To choose your seat pull up Map 1 Friday, on the website, and select any blue chair. Otherwise use, best available option.

LUXE LOUNGE Ticket Holders will choose a table for four and on purchase receive 4 tickets. These are now available online for USD2,400 and, based on availability, will be on sale on the day of the show at the gate for USD2,500. Luxe Lounge patrons receive complimentary hors d'oeuvres from their exclusive food station conveniently placed on their deck. They also receive a bottle package inclusive of two premium bottles, four chasers, four bottles of water and four branded Reggae Sumfest 30-inch cups. Also, beverages will be on sale at the bars in proximity to their deck. Each Luxe Lounge enjoys the services of hostesses, bar facilities, extra security and restroom facilities located close by. Patrons may also visit our food courts.

LUXE LOUNGE

ULTRA VIP

BYTES presents

Reggae Sumfest has had a long tradition of wrapping up the show after the sun has made its way into the eastern sky. It is a matter of pride for artistes performing at this time to know that they have the pulling power and loyalty of fans willing to wait for them to close the show. The artiste who has had this challenge and honour the most is Beenie Man. Lady Saw has the distinction of being the first female dancehall star to close the show. This she did in 2015, in style.