Sunday afternoon was well spent, that is, if you went the right place. For those who are clueless, February was designated as Reggae month with the ecumenical service held in Kingston at the University Chaptel on February 5, 2012. The service was graced by the presence of reggae greats such as Tommy Cowan (producer and singer), Ibo Cooper (Chairman of JaRIA), Dean Frazer (saxophonist), Luciano (recording artiste), Frankie Campbell (infamous Fab5), Carlene Davis (recording artiste). Also present was the Custos of St. Andrew Mrs. Marigold Harding, Pollster Don Anderson, Burchell Duhaney (Principal at Edna Manley College) and M.P., Damian Crawford. There were performances from the Nexxus Choir, as well as Luciano with ‘Lord Give me Strength’ and the sermon was delivered by Dr. Stevenson Samuels. With the Prime Minister, Hon. Portia Simpson Miller,
Members of JaRIA Board and Ibo Cooper, Frankie Campbell and Luciano
Lisa Hanna M.P. and Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange who were slated to be present but were unable to attend, nonetheless, the service was good. The immaculate coordination of the event can be attributed to the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA). JaRIA has been coordinating Reggae Month since 2009 and promises an eventful month filled with activities and cultural entertainment.February was officially declared as Reggae Month since 2008. Yes, the same month that also
Tommy Cowan
hosts black history. I guess we truly honour solidarity. However, it is quite understandable why February would have been chosen as Reggae Month. After all, February gave birth to Reggae Legend, Robert Nesta Marley.
Legendary Luciano
This month seeks to showcase the achievements of our reggae legends, past and present, the cornerstones of Reggae and those who continue to impact the reggae community.
Reggae definitely came from the hearts and minds of the Jamaican people. It represents the struggle of a nation and the dreams of the people. Reggae is a part of our culture; from the dance and food to our spirituality. There is always a song that we can relate to, whether it’s from Dennis Brown, Gyptian or Romain Virgo. Reggae offers variety just like its indigenous country….every beach doesn’t look the same, everybody doesn’t look alike, and there is no other place on earth for entertainment but Jamdown…keep it ‘Jammin’.
Check out JaRIA website to view the events planned for this special month.
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