Three seems a recurring theme for Jamaica Arts Holding (JAH) and the 18th annual celebration of International Reggae Day.
This year, three popular radio personalities — Dermot Hussey (USA), David Rodigan (London, England) and Barry G (Jamaica) will be awarded for their role in enhancing the Jamaica popularized beat.
“They will be honored as trailblazers in broadcasting and for their role in the international spread of Jamaican music throughout their careers,” Andrea Davis, founder and chair of Jamaica Arts Holdings said.
In addition a three-pronged set-up incorporating the Jamaica 50 calendar begins on the weekend when the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF) presents a Military Tattoo and the National Senior Trials in track and field takes place at the island’ National Stadium.
“What we want to deliver this year is a media festival anchored by a creative expo and concert experience in Kingston,” Davis said.
A concert at Emancipation Park in Kingston will feature guest deejays who will play recorded music. Also, a Jamaica 50 must-play music mix will spotlight selections that both Jamaica-based radio personality Barry G and London’s Rodigan will adhere.
A CD for the day will feature Toots and the Maytals, Sly and Robbie, Ky-Mani Marley, I-Wayne, Jah 9, Raging Fyah, Marcia Griffiths and Jesse Royal.
“I think IRD has got to the point where as a media festival, particularly, it has grown legs and it continues to build momentum. It has become a calendar event, to the extent that at a particular point in the year media begins to contact us,” Davis said.
IRD is marked annually on July 1.
For more log onto www.ireggaeday.com
