ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL REGGAE SUMFEST
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger Photographer: George Whylie Videographer: Maxine NolanIt was the sound heard round the islands as energy-packed Reggae Sumfest touched down in Montego Bay, Jamaica for ‘The Greatest Reggae Show on Earth’ from July 15-July 21, 2012.
The top names in Reggae once again amazed and astounded for this annual event that is considered the largest concert festival in Jamaica. The official sponsor is Red Stripe.
This year was even more monumental not just for one anniversary but for two. Jamaica continues to celebrate in legendary fashion as it hits a major milestone; the 50th Year of Independence. The second major milestone was captured by the festival itself as Reggae Sumfest marks its 20th year in existence. It only gets bigger and better every year.
One of the highlights of the popular event was the crowning of a ‘queen’ on Thursday, July 19th during Dancehall Night. Lady Saw took that top honor but not before she exhibited a performance to remember in more ways than one. She has been known to be raw and fearless. Saw has sparked much speculation that she is possibly pregnant, perhaps a gift to her long-time boyfriend, veteran dancehall producer, John John.
Some of the other most memorable performances came from Romain Vingo who eagerly serenaded his fans and surprised them with his rendition of Adele’s ‘Don’t You Remember’.
I-Octane who is a favorite year after year brought down the house with customary torches, firecrackers and lighters. He sang some great hits like ‘Lose a Friend’, ‘Mama You Alone’ and ‘Blood Shed’. He had his followers thrilled and captivated.
The much anticipated Tommy Lee, the masked man, put on a very animated show with songs such as ‘Stocking Up the Paper’ and ‘Some Bwoy’.
One of the most anticipated nights was International Night 1 and 2 which always draws enthusiastic supporters and those ready to party all night long. This was regarded as one of the best ever with the reappearance of Shabba Ranks who is a Dancehall legend but has been absent for the past 11 years. It was well worth his return as he was presented an award for his vast contributions to the music industry in Jamaica by Jamaica’s Minister of Youth and Culture, Lisa Hanna. He was touched to say the least and brought his wife and children on stage to share in his happiness. Nature was a new and emerging artiste that left his mark on the audience and gave them a reason to want more from him. We know we will be seeing more from him in the future.
Other illustrious artistes included Konshens, Kiprich, Aidonia, Pop Caan, Spice, Tifa, Elephant Man, Beenie Man and the team of Baby Cham and O. 
Radio personalities Richie B and GT Taylor were honored by Reggae Sumfest for their contribution to the entertainment industry.
One of the most talked about talent to hit Reggae Sumfest in years was Jr Gong who simply knew how to win over his fans. He took his act to a level that was beyond words and earned him much in the way of accolades. Songs that will be remembered are “More Justice”, “Beautiful”, “Still Searching” and “Affairs of the Heart”which went out to all those women who love him for his unique creativity and pleasing personality. Being the son of the late great Bob Marley, you could see that Reggae music was in his blood and in his soul. Perhaps the most moving part of his performance was the tribute paid to iconic father when he performed Bob Marley’s ‘Move’, off the legendary album, Exodus. To take it one step further, he did an unforgettable rendition of his father’s classic track, ‘Could You Be Loved’, followed by ‘Welcome to Jamrock’.
This year brought one of the award-winning entertainers in the industry, R.Kelly, to Reggae Sumfest. After guests patiently waited 90 minutes for his show to start, Kelly showed them that his music was well worth the wait. He did a compilation of some of his best songs including “Hotel” and “Wonderful”. Female fans removed his shoes as he kept going without them, not even phased by the brash boldness. The song that everyone was waiting for came and had the fans mesmerized, “I Believe I Can Fly”. He even got the crowd to take part in the song and everyone could feel the music.
One of Digicel’s Rising Star sensations, Christopher Martin, gave a stupendous performance with classic songs such as Al Green’s ‘Lets Stay Together’ and Marvin Gaye’s ‘Sexual Healing’. He once again proved that he is more than just a rising star and we will see more of him in the future as he becomes a seasoned Reggae artiste.
Bounty Hunter gave a controversial yet spirited performance as he introduced Richie Stephens on stage during the set and also reaffirmed his stand regarding the issue of sexuality in Jamaica. Lately he has been very vocal on the subject.
Opening acts included Jedani, Raine Seville, Q-Ban and Conkarah, all worthy of stealing the spotlight if only for a short time.
This show would not be complete without the mythical sounds of Bunny Wailer himself, the only surviving member of The Wailers. He brought the festival back to its roots befittingly.
A Jamaica 50 tribute took us back in time to what Jamaica is all about, the historic evolution of Reggae music and the independence of Jamaica. Those helping to bring it all to life in a magical way were John Holt, Frankie Paul, Pinchers, U-Roy and Yellow Man.
As quickly as it began, it came to an end and we were saddened to think that we will have to wait another year to have all these unbelievable artistes together under one roof for ‘The Greatest Reggae Show On Earth’. But we also know that it will be well worth the wait.
PHOTO CREDITS: Jamaica Observer, Reggae Sumfest Website
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