In Jamaica we celebrate reggae music and culture and, for more than a decade, we have recognised February as Reggae Month.

The Government of Jamaica on January 9, 2008, indicated that from there on the second month of the year would be dedicated to commemorating the impact of reggae.

During Reggae Month, a series of activities, events and concerts, mostly in Kingston and organised by the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA) and the Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth & Sports, take place to celebrate the work of past and present local reggae artistes.

These activities include a series of events, such as:

• JaRIA Open University – a series of public discussions on all things reggae
• JaRIA Live – a weekly series presenting local renown and upcoming talent
• Reggae Wednesdays – a series of live concerts charting the evolution of reggae
• Vinyl Thursdays – King Harar Sound with Exile the Brave and Little Briggy
• Reggae Mixer – weekly Friday after-work jams

Though Jamaica recognises the accomplishments of reggae artistes, the declaration was meant to highlight and celebrate the impact of the genre on the country’s development, socially, culturally, economically and globally, with the aim of making Jamaica the designated island and showplace of reggae for the world.

During the month, Jamaica also celebrates the birthdayss of two of its most legendary reggae musicians.

Bob Marley, born February 6, put Jamaica on the map with his music and Dennis Brown, born February 1, is regarded as the ‘Crown Prince of Reggae’.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, there won’t be any physical celebrations this year.

All the planned events are now virtual and will be available for live streaming: https://www.visitjamaica.com/blog/post/reggae-month-2021/

However, the sound, the history and the authenticity of reggae music still resides with, if not most, then all.

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