In 1978, when the One Love Peace Concert was held, it was a call for national transformation to be led by Jamaican music. At the time, political tensions were high and crime was a social cancer.
The situation today is no different, and Summerfest Productions, organisers of Reggae Sumfest, are aiming to be a catalyst for change, starting with this year’s festival, which will be held from July 17-24 in Montego Bay.
“Right now is one of the best opportunities we as Jamaicans have to turn things around for the better,” said Johnny Gourzong, producer of the annual festival.
“There have been a lot of negative reports surrounding our music since the start of the year and about our country in the past month. It is time for us to combat this negativity by showcasing all the best that reggae music has to offer, and the Reggae Sumfest stage provides that opportunity.”
Gourzong’s comments follow one of the nation’s most tumultuous periods. Jamaica, known globally for its rich culture and friendly people, has become smeared by international reports of high crime and violence. Never before had Jamaica faced a more challenging period with regards to perception abroad.
The music industry also had its own crisis with top artistes losing their United States visas, some being arrested and others being denied entry to perform in neighbouring Caribbean islands.
Collectively, the past few years have meant a decline in revenues for the artistes and the music industry, the perception is that positive reggae is dying and Jamaica is a country with a tarnished reputation.
The artistes’ woes also means Jamaica is an increasingly important market for them, they need to make their mark. Gourzong believes now has to be the time for the artistes to show they have finally got the message.
“Music is a unifying force that has the uncanny ability to mobilise people and convey messages. Let’s use that force to turn around Jamaica and put Jamaica first,” he said, lacing the comment with optimism.
While the music industry was never immune to crime, the death of Voicemail member Oneil Edwards in May seemed to have tugged at the music industry’s heart. The impact of his senseless murder resonated through the industry and the entire country, leaving a feeling of ‘enough is enough’.
“Let’s turn things around, beginning with the message in the music,” Gourzong added. “Reggae Sumfest is an internationally recognised festival. Let’s show the world that reggae’s original message of one love, one heart, is still very alive in our music today.”
This year’s festival starts with the Beach Party on July 17 at Cornwall Beach. The festival moves to Catherine Hall with the Best of Dancehall on show on July 22. International Night I, on July 23, will be headlined by Chris Brown , Queen Ifrica and Jah Cure and International Night II, July 24, features Usher, Shaggy and Beenie Man.
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