Eric “Monty” Morris performs at 2024 Reggae Family tree. (Pictures: RJ Deed)
The historical past of Jamaican pop music will likely be informed in a novel means throughout Reggae Family tree, an occasion that takes place on February 2 in South Florida.
It’s organised by Island SPACE Caribbean Museum based mostly within the Broward Mall.
The north-east car parking zone at Broward Mall in Plantation will rework right into a vibrant venue in celebration of Reggae Month.
David Muir, co-founder and director of that facility, says patrons will be taught in regards to the evolution of reggae whereas artistes carry out. These acts embrace ska singer Eric “Monty” Morris; The Unique Maytals Band representing rocksteady; reggae singers Ernie Smith, Wayne Armond, and Ambelique; dancehall act Shuga; EDM artiste/producer Walshy Fireplace; and the Carimer Theater Firm, a inventive dance group.
“The premise of Reggae Family tree is to current a reside celebration of the legacy of Jamaican music, the genres our music has impressed, and the creators of our numerous genres through the years. We rework the car parking zone at Broward Mall right into a live performance venue and play an anthology of hits from throughout the many years, with cameos by the hitmakers alongside the best way,” Muir informed the Jamaica Observer.
“We’re hoping to achieve reggae music lovers from each background, whether or not Caribbean, European, South American, African, Asian, American, or in any other case,” he mentioned.
Organisers can even current Lifetime Achievement Awards to a few music trade stalwarts — the Internal Circle band, singer Wayne Surprise, and producer Donovan Germain.
Reggae Family tree kicks off Reggae Month actions in South Florida, dwelling to one of many largest Jamaican communities in the USA. Different occasions are Rastafari Day on February 15 and Reward On The Inexperienced Gospel Extravaganza eight days later.
Muir and fellow Jamaican Calibe Thompson launched Island SPACE Caribbean Museum in October 2020 at Broward Mall to showcase the area’s tradition. As a result of COVID-19, there was little exercise there initially, however the venue has attracted enthusiastic audiences since relaunching in April 2023.
— Howard Campbell
