’80s and ’90s dancehall being celebrated for International Reggae Day

International Reggae Day is here again and fans in Jamaica and around the world are celebrating.

Supporters of the globally recognised genre, which has been the soundtrack for several movements, are being encouraged to represent with pride, be it through dress, dancing, or playing music.

“Take the day and immerse yourself in the music and support the art,” said founder of International Reggae Day Andrea Davis.

Taking the centre stage for this year’s festivities is paying homage to 1980s and ’90s dancehall.

Among the events the public can participate in is a panel discussion with Sly Dunbar, Clevie Browne, Beenie Man, Jeremy Harding, Noel Davey, Pat Meschino and others on the theme ‘Saluting the Global Influence of ’80s-’90s Dancehall and its influence on Hip Hop, Reggaeton, EDM and Afrobeats’.

“We are looking at the legacy of dancehall; the ‘80s and ‘90s really stand out as the golden era of that genre; it is when it really came of age, and it continues to demonstrate its power in the market by the sheer number of collaborations and samples that are still being driven by the music that was created by the great producers of the day, so we want to salute that and recognise its long-lasting impact and influence,” said Davis.

DISCUSSION

With dance being integral to dancehall, the public is also being engaged in a discussion on ‘From Brukins to Bogle: The Evolution of Dance in Dancehall Culture’ which will have Dr L’Antoinette Stines with presenters Maria Hitchins and Patrick Earle, plus special guests Carlene the Dancehall Queen and John Hype.

In keeping with the need to preserve heritage and promote a sustainable future, reggae lovers are also being asked to plant a tree.

“We are encouraging reggae fans around the world to do what we can in the fight against climate change. It is a very real threat to us as human beings, and from the heat that we are feeling right now, I think it is very clear that we have to do all that we can to try to preserve life and trees are a very important part of that ecosystem,” said Davis.

The artistes being honoured this year are Sugar Minott, Frankie Paul, Sizzla, Cutty Ranks, Spragga Benz, Garnet Silk, Capleton, Tiger, Papa San, Cobra, Lt. Stitchie, Wayne Wonder, Shinehead, Ini Kamoze, Sanchez, Baby Cham, Tanya Stephens, Barrington Levy, Chaka Demus and Pliers, Lady Saw, Patra, Sean Paul, Ninja Man, Shabba Ranks, Supercat, Bounty Killer, Buju Banton and Shaggy.