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SOUND CHECK: Winky D (ZIMBABWE)
He competed against several Djs, but as he evolved from raga to reggae and dancehall his music began to rise to the top. He became Winky D, while mastering the talent of merging social and emotional lyrics, with fast-paced urban dancehall music
The Roots
Wallace Chirumiko was born in Harare, Zimbabwe in 1983. Growing up in the country’s capital and its most populous city Chirumiko, only fueled his interest in music. At the age of 16, he began taking part in the Ghetto Lane Clashes, a right of passage for local Djs looking to showcase their work. He first earned the nickname Wicked Deejay after taking part in a number of these battles. He competed against several Djs, but as he evolved from raga to reggae and dancehall his music began to rise to the top. He became Winky D, while mastering the talent of merging social and emotional lyrics, with fast-paced urban dancehall music. Now, with five other albums under his belt, Winky D released Gafa Futi earlier in 2016. The title of the album, though not translated verbatim, loosely means “to help again.” His music is devoted to the struggle of everyday life in the ghetto. He sings of these trials and the search for happiness.
The Musical Influence
Many of Winky D’s influences stem from his time competing in battles in his hometown. Much of what made Zimdancehall so popular is that it allowed artists to blend their real life struggles with the popular dancehall sound.
The Sound
Winky D’s story is not uncommon. The difference is that with his music you can feel his raw communication. His blend of dancehall and reggae is prevalent through his ragga sound. Demonstrated in his first video single off of the “Disappear” album.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HM-1rfqP9KM
The Road
Link Up Winky D
SOUND CHECK: J Boog (US/HAWAII)
The video for “Let’s Do It Again,” off the Backyard Boogie album, one of J Boog’s most successful releases, gives a glimpse of his sound and vibe. Filmed in Hawaii, the video shows off the island – its natural beauty not to mention its natural beauties.
The Roots
Jerry Afemata was born in Long Beach, California and raised in Compton. The Afemata family, large and of Samoan descent, was always an influence on Jerry, the youngest of seven brothers and one sister. Even his nickname, Boog, was given to him by his siblings because he could never sit still.
Growing up, J Boog was always exposed to different genres. Now, in his music, you can hear a clear blend of reggae, hip-hop, r&b, and his own feel-good vibe that gives his music its own twist. J Boog released his first album in 2007, “Hear Me Roar.” Since then, he has been consistently releasing music and touring. During this time he traveled to Jamaica and was exposed to many of the island’s influencers, as well as being invited to work with well-known producers and studios.
In 2011, he released his self-titled EP, “J Boog,” with Washhouse Hawaii. Though he reached great heights with this release, it wasn’t until “Backyard Boogie,” later in 2011, that he made it internationally when it hit #1 on the reggae charts.
In 2013, J Boog released the EP “Live Up!” and later the mixtape “My Diamond Life” in collaboration with the clothing store Diamond Supply Co. J Boog’s dedication and work ethic is evident in the quality and volume of his new releases.
J Boog now lives between Hawaii and California creating music that emphasizes his love for his music, family, and pride he has for his culture. J Boog’s latest release, “Wash House Ting,” is creating waves for the well-seasoned artist.
The Musical Influence
His sister, whom he credits as his first influencer, played the piano and was well versed in music. She exposed him to the music of the king of reggae, Bob Marley and others from that era. He remembers that reggae music was always embraced in his house, so he never felt any pressure when it was time to develop his own sound.
The Sound
The video for “Let’s Do It Again,” off the Backyard Boogie album, one of J Boog’s most successful releases, gives a glimpse of his sound and vibe. Filmed in Hawaii, the video shows off the island – its natural beauty not to mention its natural beauties.
In this modern love song J Boog sings:
“It was like food for all of my senses
All time prices go expensive
Like water to all ‘em dried trenches
She had a theme song for her every entrance”
The Road
Link Up J Boog
17 WOMEN IN REGGAE YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT
1. Lila Iké
Lila Ike was born and raised in Jamaica’s parish of Manchester. Born Alecia Tameka Grey, she adopted the name Lila Iké when she moved to Kingston to pursue her dream of music. Iké is short for Ikéchuckwu, a Nigerian Igbo name meaning “power of God”. The late great Garnett Silk is one of Lila’s favorite artists and sources of inspiration. After releasing a number of singles, including Biggest Fan and Second Chance before releasing her first full length album The ExPerience in 2020. Lila Iké’s voice is masterful when she goes from low notes to those memorable highs, and her vocal runs are goosebump inducing. If you haven’t, you should definitely check her out. She’s making her way to the top and shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.
Link Up Lila Iké
2. Reemah
Reemah is a musical force to be reckoned with. Hailing from St. Croix, Reemah is known for her commanding presence on stage. She captivates with the messages she shares through her poignant lyrics. Her debut album, Check Your Words, was released in 2012 and has been making steady waves in the Reggae-sphere ever since. Reemah tours all across the Americas, from the Reggae on the River festival in California down to select countries in South America. She has also performed in a few festivals in Europe as her popularity grows. Breaking News came out in 2018 with tracks like Warn Dem and Give Thanks Everyday. Reemah is working on and perfecting her craft while making a name for herself in the Reggae music scene.
Reemah on The Road
Link Up Reemah
3. Mo’Kalamity
If you’re looking for sweet, rich, and smoky vocals, look no further than the voice of Mo’Kalamity. She was born on the beautiful island of Cape Verde off the coast of West Africa, and moved to Paris. Mo’Kalamity – birth name Monica Tavares- taught herself music and formed The Wizards in 2004. She released Warriors of Light three years later. Mo’Kalamity found her place in France’s reggae environment. Her second album, Deeper Revolution, came out in 2011 and was nominated for 3 Cabo Verde Awards. Mo’Kalamity flew to Jamaica in 2017. She said that catching the vibration in reggae land was “necessary”. She worked with Jamaican musical and producing legends, Sly & Robbie who were a major part of her 4th album, Made in Jamaica. Step into the world of Mo’Kalamity, starting with the song below.
Link Up Mo’Kalamity
4. Jalifa
Daughter of Priest Ekechi and Empress Adama, Jalifa was born with Rastafari and Reggae flowing through her veins. Kalifa Nataki Alexis was born in Trinidad & Tobago’s capital, Port of Spain. She was first introduced to music by her own family. Her father would DJ while her two older brothers would chant and sing. She and her sisters took part by putting on plays or pretend concerts or fashion shows. Jalifa and her siblings were exposed to many musical genres like Dancehall, R&B, and Hip-Hop. She says that Sister Nancy, Lauryn Hill, and Eminem are among her biggest influences. She can freestyle, and she is sure to pull you in with her hypnotic vocals. Jalifa’s older brother, Adiel Alexis aka Abba Shanty encouraged her to pursue her musical dreams. Her brother has also written and co-written Jalifa’s songs like When I Chant and Unite (featuring Reddy). Jalifa continues to teach and inspire. Definitely take a listen for yourself.
Link Up Jalifa
5. Hempress Sativa
Kerida Johnson, professionally known as Hempress Sativa, is an avid storyteller and visionary with much to say. There is nothing like watching Hempress Sativa sing her truth live. You’re absolutely enthralled from the very first note. It may have something to do with the fact that her father is musician Albert “Ilawi Malawi” Johnson of the Jah Love Sound System. Sativa’s father and her mother, Doris-Day, are Rastafarian. Her spiritual beliefs have been the guide on Sativa’s musical journey. She started performing when she was 13, moving from authentic reggae beats to tunes that are influenced by R&B, Afrobeat, and Hip Hop. With songs like Jah Have Mi Back, Children of the Emperor, and Scheme, there is no doubt that Hempress Sativa is simultaneously down to Earth and aiming for the stars.
Link Up Hempress Sativa
6. Princess Kazayah
Shanelle Mitchell also known as Princess Kazayah was born and raised in Evanston, Illinois to Jamaican parents. Her introduction to singing started at a young age when she sang at her church. She has a way of using her soft, melodic vocals to bring power to uplifting lyrics. Kazayah fell in love with Roots Reggae when she connected with music producer Ras Wadadah II. She began working in D.O.V.E. Music Studio where she performed her own tracks and collabed with several prominent artists like Micah Shemiah, Mr. Williamz, Kelissa, and more. Kazayah performed for the first time in 2013 in her hometown of Evanston. Since then, she’s performed in Jamaica, Belize, Mexico, and other parts of the United States. Her first mixtape, Troddin: The Dub Tape came out in 2014. She has been making sweet music ever since, and you should definitely give her a listen.
Link Up Princess Kazayah
7. MC Soom T
Sumati Bhardwaj aka Soom T aka “The Ragamuffin Queen” has made quite a name for herself in the underground Reggae scene. Hailing from Glasgow, Soom T has over 100 song titles to her credit. Her first official album, Free As A Bird, was released in 2015. Soom T is proud of her Indian lineage, and she uses religious and spiritual philosophy to help inspire her work. She also says that she is influenced by the music of Rage Against the Machine, Cypress Hill, and Public Enemy. Her 2022 studio album Good was entirely self-produced. The album brings together reggae, dub, and jazz sounds while the lyrics condemn current political and social issues.
Link Up MC Soom T
8. Queen Omega
Jeneile Osbourne was born on the glorious island of Trinidad & Tobago. She got her musical start singing in calypso and soca bands. When she adopted the Rastafari faith, she began to sing roots reggae and chose the name Queen Omega for herself. She later relocated to England to continue her passion. Queen Omega started recording her self-titled debut album in 2000, and it was released the following year. By 2004, following the release of her second album Pure Love (2003) and third album Away From Babylon (2004), she had established herself as Trinidad’s next “British Reggae sensation”. And with good reason. Her style, her words, her presence, and her vocals are certainly sensational. When she sings, you want to listen. And you should.
Link Up Queen Omega
9. Jah9
Conscious revolutionary lioness, Janine Cunningham, was born in Montego Bay to a Baptist Minister father and a social worker and teacher mother. More widely known by her moniker, Jah9, she moved to Kingston during her childhood and fell in love with music while she attended university. Jah9’s style moves seamlessly between traditional reggae sounds and a blues-y jazz like tone that transcends genres. Her voice has a depth to it that evokes a powerful spirit, shining through with her lyrics and stage presence. She released her first album New Name in 2013, and that sealed her place in the up and coming Reggae hall of fame. Her most recent album, Note To Self (released in 2020) features tracks like Could It Be, Love Has Found I, and Note To Self. Not only is she a singer/songwriter, she is also a well respected yogi and yoga teacher.
Link Up Jah9
10. Yeza
Yeza the Rebel came onto the music scene in 2017 with her first single Everyting Is Irie. She’s been making a name for herself and claiming her spot on a list of formidable female Reggae artists and shows no signs of slowing down. Yeza was born on a street called Star of the East which feels like a sign that she was destined for great things. Her introduction to music was through her parents and the sound system culture of her community while she was growing up. She says, “I always felt that music was a part of me that wouldn’t go away. So I had to take the stance to give music a chance.” She is far from ordinary and has no problem stepping over the barriers of expected genres with unique beats and lyrics. Yeza is short for Yezambique. It’s a Swahili word that means strength and resilience. The strength and resilience shows in her aesthetic which is equal parts roots and rude girl, and can also be heard in her sound.
Link Up Yeza
11. Nattali Rize
Natalie Magdalena Chilcote, known professionally as Nattali Rize, is an Australian born Jamaica based musician. Nattali is certainly not new to the music scene, nor is she new to social justice/social activism. As Natalie Pa’apa’a, she was the lead singer and lead guitarist of the urban roots ensemble Blue King Brown. She moved to Jamaica in 2014 and officially changed her stage name to Nattali Rize in 2015. Nattali has also loaned her talents to the Playing For Change music project that features artists from all around the world. Some of Nattali’s songs like Warriors, One People, and Believers show Nattali’s prowess as a storyteller and they showcase her wondrous vocal abilities.
Link Up Nattali Rize
12. Aza Lineage
Born in Kingston in the late 1980s, powerful “singjay” Aza Lineage (born Dana Bernard) has become a vocal leader in the Jamaican Reggae scene. From a young age, Aza familiarized herself with reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, and sound system culture through her cousins’ studio Serious Gold. She moved to Trelawney for work, but after connecting with her spiritual self, she moved back to Kingston and linked up with The Lineage Family. She became the Lineage Family’s first active female member. Of her music, Aza says that she’s “honoring and continuing the works and the legacy of Reggae and Dancehall’s movers and shakers, is about reaching out and making heartical connections”. In songs like Sound System and Roots Radics she pays her respects to the culture that moves her. Her voice has a distinct and beautiful depth to it, and it doesn’t hurt that she is a genius lyricist. Aza has attended Kingston Dub Club, Inner City Dub, Sankofa Sessions, and Vinyl Thursdays; performing, honing her skills as a songwriter, and gaining a following.
Link Up Aza Lineage
13. Khalia
Khalia Million was born in the Jamaican parish of Westmoreland. She moved to London at a young age, and returned to Jamaica in 2016 to pursue music. Recording was never hard for Khalia. She had become comfortable in a studio when she started recording at 15. Music was also something that came naturally to her. In 2020, she won the Breakthrough Artiste of the Year Award at the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA). She has been working closely with her producer Tony Kelly for many years. As a formidable solo artist, Khalia says that her goal is to bring positive music to the forefront of Jamaica’s dancehall scene. She has also collaborated with fellow Jamaican artists, i-Octane, Tifa, Shaggy, and Ghanaian singer Stonebwoy. Khalia is known for a number of singles such as Don’t Look Back, One Dance, and Easy. Let her voice and musical savvy lure you in.
Link Up Khalia
14. Xana Romeo
Born Azana Makeda Smith, Xana Romeo is the youngest daughter of reggae veteran Max Romeo. She grew up surrounded by music and learned about the craft and the industry from an early age. She recalls having live music shows at her house every Friday. The first Black conscious book Xana read was the autobiography of Malcolm X, and that was what inspired her to have her stage name start with the letter X. She released her first album Wake Up in 2016 and her sophomore album The Roots of X came out in 2021. “Music says things that our mouth cannot say, Music connects us emotionally. Music gives me a voice. I’m not the type of person to sit and complain about the stuff that bothers me in life, I’m the type to sing about it,” says Xana. Her beautiful voice and infectious hooks solidify Xana’s place as a great young voice of the Reggae Revivalist movement.
Link Up Xana Romeo
15. Sevana
Two words to describe Sevana? Triple threat. She’s a singer, model, and actress who excels in all 3 fields. Sevana, born Anna-Sharé Blake, was born and raised in Westmoreland, Jamaica. She got her musical start when she was 16. She and two friends entered Digicel Rising Stars (Jamaica’s equivalent to American Idol) in 2008. They were called SLR and placed third in the competition. Even though they disbanded in 2009 and Sevana took a short hiatus from music, she came back in 2014 as a solo artist. Sevana is known for blending Reggae and R&B; both coming together with her soulful yet powerful voice. She featured on Protoje’s track Sudden Flight and began to get international recognition. She released an eponymous EP in 2016, and her second EP came out in 2020. Get to know Sevana and her music a bit more by clicking some links below.
Link Up Sevana
16. Sara Lugo
Sara Lugo is a German Reggae musician of Puerto Rican heritage. She has been surrounded by music her entire life. She started learning to play the piano from a young age and also received vocal training. Her brother Tom is the lead singer of the Reggae/Dub group Jamaram; Sara’s first musical gigs began when she sang backing vocals for the band. She followed acts like Ganjaman and Tarrus Riley and even had solo concerts of her own. In 2005, Sara recorded a track with music producer Umberto Echo. Sara and Echo worked on her eponymous EP that was released in 2009. Sara’s soulful vocals and musical and lyrical knowledge helped her gain a following in Germany, and she released a full album, What About Love? In 2011. Protoje and Jah9 were a few of the artists that were featured on Sara’s 2016 release, Sara Lugo & Friends. She’s still going strong and working on more music.
Link Up Sara Lugo
17. Vanessa Bongo
Vanessa Bongo née Vanessa Lee was born in bright and beautiful Barbados. Though raised in the land of Calypso, she discovered her Reggae roots and moved to Jamaica when she was 19. She has said that she draws inspiration from Lauryn Hill, Bob Marley, and Buju Banton. Once in Jamaica, Vanessa attended Edna Manley College and earned an Associate’s Degree in music. Her message? She wants to “spread the bongo vibez” to free spirited people all over the world. Her music focuses on self actualization and love. In 2016, Vanessa released the single Sensimilla State of Mind, and garnered a wide audience. As is her positive message, the song’s themes are focus and happiness. She released the track Great Tings in 2019 where she discusses her life as an up and coming artist who is on the way to achieving “great tings”. She released her first EP Earth To Bongo shortly after.
Link Up Vanessa Bongo
SOUND CHECK: Weekly Music Round Up: JoJo, Candice, Hoodcelebrityy and More
Friday’s are generally the best day of the week for most. The weekend is here! New music is usually released. But with all that new music it is hard to know what is worth your time. Which songs should you add to your playlist? Will them help you get ready for a night out? Do you want to just chill for the weekend? Around The Mill is your weekly round up of the hottest Caribbean and Caribbean-infused sounds. Every week you will receive 5 new songs you will add to your playlist as you navigate this year’s new music!
Song #1: No Apologies (The Kemist Remix) x JoJo ft. Wiz Khalifa, Nyanda
Jamaican-American producer, The Kemist takes the infectious nature of “No Apologies” by Jojo featuring Wiz Khalifa up a few notches! From the opening drop of the track, you can hear the island vibe. With Jamaican-songstress, Nyanda, adding her Caribbean girl magic to this defiantly unapologetic remix. This was bound to be a hot new single to add to your playlist!
Song #2: Take You Home x No Genre ft. Kofi Black
New York rapper, No Genre, takes his music to another dimension as he fuses hip-hop with dancehall on “Take You Home” featuring Kofi Black, who is also from New York. There is no denying this track was influenced by “Turn Me On” by Vincentian soca artist, Kevin Lyttle. If you are looking for a nostalgic sound with a 2017 influence, this song is the one you should add to your playlist!
Song #3: Dutty Boy x Candice
This Haitian/Cuban rude girl did not come to play on her latest single, Dutty Boy. Candice gives the Caribbean flava like only a girl from Miami can truly do. This track is on the borderline of a dance track with its moments of uptempo sections. Yet there is a smooth sultry sound as Candice tells her dutty boy that he needs to leave the other girls alone. If you are looking for a summer anthem ladies, this one is for you!
Song #4: Wind It x Leezy
There is no mistaking the trend that exists when a rapper releases a smooth hip-hop track that features him rap-singing. “Wind It” is no exception! Leezy makes mention of the popular tune by Drake, “Controlla” that is most notably the blueprint for reaching the ladies where the feel it the most, their waistlines! There is a slow bounce that you can feel as Leezy spits game to the ladies. Add this to your playlist if you want to chill and hold a vibe!
Song #5: Cut Them Off x Hoodcelebrityy
Dubbed the Female Kartel per her Instagram, Hoodcelebrityy has a track for the fake friends she has in her life. There’s no indication if this is specific to any one, two, or few friends. But the message rings true for anyone who achieves success. When you’re grinding in the trenches, not many people will be there with you. When you reach the level of popularity where everyone knows your name, enter the fake friends Hoodcelebrityy speaks of. If you have dealt with “new friends” who weren’t there with you from the beginning, this is the song to add to your playlist!
There you have it! 5 new songs you need to pay attention to this week. Each artist brings his/her own style to the genre of reggae, dancehall, and/or soca. With the talent that exists in the world today, each week we will search around the mill to bring you the best tunes you need to listen to!
10 OF THE BEST REGGAE FESTIVALS IN EUROPE
1. SummerJam – Germany
Germany’s SummerJam Festival has been going strong since 1985. The festival takes place every July at Fühlinger See, a series of lakes in a suburb of Cologne. SummerJam attracts about 25,000 to 30,000 people per year. You can camp in different areas around the lake, and the festivities happen on an island with 2 tents and 2 stages. Some notable Reggae performers at SummerJam Festival include: Dennis Brown, Jimmy Cliff, Chronixx, Bunny Wailer, and Burning Spear. This is a festival worth experiencing yourself.
2. One Love Festival UK – UK
One Love Festival hosted in the UK will turn 15 in the first week of August 2023. The Festival began on the 30th anniversary of the 1978 One Love Peace Concert that featured Bob Marley and the Wailers’ performance in Kingston, Jamaica. It’s said to be a Reggae and Dub camping event you don’t want to miss. You can join yoga sessions, spend time in the Field of Love-for relaxation and spiritual well being, and check out craft markets. If you get a VIP ticket, you have a chance to dine with the artists. Julian Marley, Black Uhuru, and Zion Train are just some of the artists who have performed there.
3. Rototom Sunsplash – Spain
Taking a trip to Benicàssim, Spain in mid to late August may find you at the Rototam Sunsplash Festival. Thousands upon thousands of Reggae fans from all over the world have been attending the festival since 1994, and finally moved to Benicàssim in 2010 to accommodate the growing number of patrons. This festival has boasted performances by Damian Marley, Soom T, Aza Lineage, Hempress Sativa, and the Skatalites. And that was just the lineup for 2022! Want to have the ultimate week-long Reggae and camping experience? Then you should definitely go to Rototom Sunsplash.
4. Bomboclat Festival – Belgium
Along the Belgian coast in Zeebrugge, you can spend 2 days enjoying live Reggae and Afrobeat tunes at the Bomboclat Festival. It takes place in the last week of August and it’s full of fun and good vibes. Bomboclat Festival is relatively new and there are a ton of performers of various genres who attend. If you’re a fan of Dub, Reggae, Dancehall, and Afrobeat, then this is the festival you should check out! Acts like Konshens, Soulshakers, Abena, Tarrus Riley, Black Mamba, and Saidou have performed there. Click the links below for more info on the festival. You can also see previous lineups, and find out when tickets are available for next year:
5. Uprising Festival – Slovakia
The Uprising Festival in Slovakia is said to be a “festival connecting people of various cultures, ethnicities, and races”. Since its 2008 debut, it has become one of the Top 40 European festivals in the region. Uprising may be a Reggae festival, but it’s far from being monothematic. You can be sure to hear Dancehall, Ska, Dub, and even Dnb at the festival. If you want to try yoga, you can. If you want to be a part of a plethora of creative workshops, you can. There are even activities for kids available. Gleb, Dizzee Rascal, and Barrington Levy are just some of the artists featured for next year’s Uprising. They also have a winter edition, so be sure to check that out too.
6. HIM Dub Festival – Portugal
The HIM Dub Festival in Portugal is the youngest festival on this list. The first one took place in 2022 in Rapoula do Côa, Portugal and lasted 5 days. Dub Judah, Jah Version, Roots Daughters, and Agobun were just a part of the first great lineup. The festival is right beside a pristine river, for the ultimate experience of oneness and love in nature. Even though it’s new, there’s no doubt that the HIM Dub Festival will attract a bigger following as the years go by. Tickets for 2023 are already available. You should get yours asap.
7. Dub Camp Festival – France
France’s Dub Camp Festival is a four-day long epic celebration of Reggae, Dub, and Sound System culture. It’s held on the banks of a man-made lake in the northwest of France. Dub Camp is eco-friendly, becoming a part of the UNESCO heritage for its environmental efforts. There is also information on their website about accessibility for those you may be differently abled. The festival started in 2014, and was France’s second Dub festival. The lineups have included the likes of Queen Omega, Sista Habesha, Essaïa, Omar Perry, and more. Tickets for 2023 are already available. More details below.
8. Hill Vibes Reggae Festival – Austria
THROWBACK THURSDAY: The Harder They Come Soundtrack
“You can get it if you really want.
You can get it if you really want.
You can get it if you really want.
But, you must try, try and try.
Try and try. Try and try…
you’ll succeed at last!”
Reggae icon, Jimmy Cliff went from local vocalist to world renown actor and singer/songwriter after the debut of the feature film, “The Harder They Come”. The accompanying soundtrack gave way to a host of guest musicians who would go on to create hits following the movie’s success.
Desmond Dekker, Toots and the Maytals, the Melodians, Scotty, and The Slickers came together to create a compilation of the best music coming out of Jamaica during that time.
Check The Vibe
The Harder They Come turned out to be a cult-classic that still defines the quality of music rising from the small island of Jamaica. Starring Jimmy Cliff, the film highlights the struggles of a young man trying to make a living in the big city. He is confronted by obstacles, enemies, and a dark past that eventually comes back to haunt him. Through it all the music chronicles the journey of one’s life and how loyalty reigns supreme.
For its 40th anniversary, the Harder They Come was re-released in the United States and showcased Jamaican singer Jimmy Cliff in his thrilling role as Ivan Martin who turns to a life of crime after he is hoaxed by a deceitful record producer. What was originally a crooked deal turns into a wild ride that leads to an untimely homicide.
Modeled after old westerns that would play in Jamaica, Jimmy Cliff’s iconic pose holding two handguns makes for a fan favorite and must see moment in this film that is just as relevant today as it was 40+ years ago.
12 Festivals You Should Check Out in July 2019
JULY 2019
We’re well into Summer ‘19. We know you have started making those great summer memories with your family and friends! Because that is what summer is truly about.
One of the best summer pastimes is the music festival. As you can imagine, the list of festivals you should check out this month is extensive. We know it can be tough to decide which music festivals you should check out in your region. That’s why we have created this month’s guide to let you know what is happening in your neck of the woods.
Some of these festivals may require a road trip. You may even need to take a flight! But, we know the experience you have will be well worth the effort.
1. Summerjam
Date:
Location: Cologne, Germany
Official Website: https://en.summerjam.de/
Held annually at the Fühlinger See, a lake located in Cologne, Germany. This festival welcomes between 25,000 and 30,000 people to its venue. There are two stages and two tends located on an island with camping area surrounding the lake. The event takes place over 3 days. It takes place during the first weekend in July. This festival is over 20 years old and has seen the likes of Black Uhuru, Steel Pulse, and Beenie Man grace their stages.
2. Sunrise Reggae & Ska
Date: July 7 – July 9
Location: Germany
Official Website: http://www.sunrisefestival.de/
This festival showcases the power of unity! Thousands gather in Germany for a “family ting”. With acts such as Toots & The Maytals, Dub Inc, and Skarra Mucci, Summer 2017 at this festival is going to be an experience you wouldn’t want to miss.
3. Öland Roots
Date: July 10 – July 12
Location: Sweden
Official Website: http://www.olandroots.com/en
If you are looking for a festival created to help you escape the from society’s demands. This festival is for you! Visitors create a community of love, solidarity, and awareness. By the end of this 3-day festival, you will want to work towards a common future based on the community! The festival features major Swedish acts, upcoming artists as well as international sensations such as Protoje and the Indignation.
4. Dub Camp
Date: July 11 – July 14
Location: France
Official Website: https://www.dubcampfestival.com/
A festival dedicated to the outdoor sound system movement. This one is for those who enjoy that part of reggae culture! Over 50 crews perform under 4 marquees. These crews hail from France, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, England, and Sweden to name a few.
5. Lake Splash
Date: July 12 – July 13
Location: Switzerland
Official Website: http://lakesplash.ch/
Get ready for 2 days of good vibes ONLY! For 20 years, this festival has welcomed national and international reggae bands to Switzerland. This year’s lineup includes the Virgin Islands Nice Tour with Pressure Busspipe, Niyorah, and Revelation Da Royal.
6. Mighty Sounds
Date: July 12 – July 14
Location: Tábor, Czech Republic
Official Website: https://www.mightysounds.cz/en/
A unique 3-day music event. This festivals happens every year in July. he festival focuses primarily on punk and punk rock, rock’n’roll, hardcore, reggae, ska, rockabilly, indie rock and other styles of music. A large number of foreign bands represent within the lineup each year. This makes it particularly special for the avid festival attendees.
7. Reggae Sumfest
Date: July 14 – July 20
Location: Jamaica
Official Website: http://reggaesumfest.com/
This festival represents the past, present, and future of reggae music. Started over 20 years ago, today this festival has a modernized approach to create a top tier global property. Fans from all over the world touchdown to experience “brand Jamaica”. International fans also have the option to buy an online streaming package.
8. Bababoom Festival
Date: July 13 – July 20
Location: Italy
Official Website: http://www.bababoomfestival.it/en/
Born of the union of various cultures from the region, the Bababoom Festival is a multifaceted festival of artistic expressions. National and International artist perform during the festival. This festival provides a unique opportunity for artists to learn and improve their techniques for success in the industry. There is also recreational space for participants to enjoy high quality events.
9. Seasplash Festival
Date: July 18 – July 21
Location: Croatia
Official Website: https://seasplash-festival.com/en/
The Seasplash Festival is one of the longest-running Croatian festivals. It takes place at a magical location – Fort Punta Christo near Pula and is the ideal place for easy-going people who enjoy excellent but relaxed summer entertainment close to the sea. At the Seasplash Festival we dance till dawn with the best artists from the region and well-known guest artists from all over the world. The artists represent the entire bass scene and culture of reggae, dub, drum & bass, dancehall, ska, electronic and world music. The festival offers four days of music on several stages.
10. The Mayjah Rayjah Music Festival
Date: July 26 – July 27
Location: Hawaii, USA
Official Website: http://www.tmrmusicfestival.com/
Hawaii’s largest reggae music festival returns to Waikiki Shell. Reggae music has such an influence in Hawaii’s culture that visitors and locals alike all come together every summer to celebrate its legacy. Festival producers promise to deliver an unforgettable experience and invite fans from all over the world to come and enjoy the great music here in paradise.
11. Uppsala Reggae Festival
Date: July 26 – July 27
Location: Sweden
Official Website: http://www.uppsalareggaefestival.com/
Uppsala Reggae Festival is one of Sweden’s most popular music festivals. It is a festival with an open and friendly atmosphere with a mix of people even when it comes to age. Over the years, reggae has evolved constantly with new influences and genres. Although the festival has grown with the evolution of reggae, the emphasis consistently focuses on roots reggae.
11. Reggaejam
Date: July 28 – July 30
Location: Germany
Official Website: https://www.reggaejam.de/
What started as a party over 20 years ago has turned into one of Germany’s top music festivals. Throughout the growth of this festival international artists have been added alongside local DJs and artists. Fans from all over the world travel to the German destination to experience reggae music.
STAY LOYAL TO REGGAE!!!
STAY LOYAL TO REGGAE!!!