Rebel Salute 2024 is now in the history books. The concert, which began as an event to commemorate the birthday of singer/promoter Tony Rebel 30 years ago, is now a must-attend concert that is a staple on the live music calendar in Jamaica.
Anthony Turner, the New York-based Jamaican entertainment publicist, told Caribbean Life on Tuesday that, among the performers this year were: Third World, Sean Paul, Etana, Richie Stephens, Sanchez, Capleton, I-Wayne, Anthony B, Mikey Spice, Luciano and Queen Ifrica.
“In 2017, New York showed its appreciation for the festival with a proclamation from State Sen. Leroy Comrie for the concert’s contribution to the preservation of reggae music globally,” Turner said.
Jamaican TV host Special K, whose real name in Kay Frith, of I-Land Vybzz TV, an online station, who was in Jamaica this year to attend the festival, told Caribbean Life that “moments after delivering a scintillating performance, singer Richie Stephens expressed gratitude to Tony Rebel and his team for producing a successful event.”
“When you started this event Rebel, you said you did not want meat or alcohol to be sold,” the Jamaica, Queens-based Special K quoted Richie Stephens as saying. “30 years later, you have remained firm and resolute in your conviction and, for that, we must big you up.
“I know it is not easy to put on an event of this magnitude, but you have stayed the course and deserve all the blessing coming your way,” Stephens added. “This concert is one of our most valuable musical exports, bringing in fans for all parts of the globe.
“The performances are solid, and the overall vibe and presentation is second to none,” he continued. “We have to find a way to preserve the festival by any means necessary, as it represents the best of our Jamaican music and our culture.”
Stephens, who is celebrating 40 years in the music industry, also talked about his performance, telling Caribbean Life, “I have been on the Rebel Salute stage four times in total. I performed twice when the event was held at Fort Kaiser in St. Elizabeth (Jamaica). Last year, I made a cameo as a guest of Sanchez, and, this year, I performed by myself.”
Asked about what was special about his 2024 performance the singer said, “I prepared my set and added something special for the 30th anniversary celebration.
“The loud cheers from fans said it all,” he added. “When I came on stage, patrons were sitting. but they got up and sang and danced for the entire performance.”
Stephens said his classic hit, “Fight Back,” “generated excitement” while his new single, “Stature of a Fool,” “struck a responsive chord.”
In addition, he said “Loving So Sweet, Nothing Can Go Round It” earned “rapturous applause.”
“The gospel medley topped a solid performance,” Stephens said.
Additionally, the singer shared, “When it comes to music, we are always working, always writing and producing songs.
“I find solace in music,” he disclosed. “I feel very good within myself when I am singing or in the studio working.
“This is my 40th anniversary in music this year, and I have a lot of great things in store,” Stephens assured.
