Don’t leave Jamaica without taking in some music. It is one of the island’s largest cultural exports. Reggae, shell, dancehall, the tradition of roasting, dub, sound collision, lover’s rock – all created in Jamaica and are worth experiencing live.
Caribbean artists big and small are constantly perform. Whether you are familiar with their work or not, it is an absolute must catch a show. Before you arrive, it would help do some research. Verify Event britThe Visit JamaicaThe Bands inThe PekstenlinkOr any other website that offers a calendar or list of events that go down on the island. The chance is that you can see a reggae or dancehall icon appear in a large or intimate place.
My first night in Kingston, I visited Mekor (Marketplace Entertainment Center for the Arts) Nightclub. When I rolled up and bought my ticket, I found out – surprise! – The legendary reggae artist Sizzla performed the same night.
Larger outdoor concerts are also one thing, and I was lucky enough to participate in a historic on my visit to Jamaica. In July 2024, the dancehall artist Vybz Kartel was released from prison after serving a 14-year judgment. If you do not know his name, you have probably heard some of his songs. His hit 2008 ”Ramp shop“With colleague dancehall -artist Spice Used the instrumentals from Ne-Yo’s “independent woman” and turned it into a raunchy-but-romantic duet. Cartel was sentenced to prison in 2011, but still enjoyed career success while he was locked up, including but not limited to 2016’s “Fever“As he recorded in prison for his” King of the Dancehall “album. Yes – Cartel even knocked out hits under Lockdown.
We weeks after he was released, he announced his return to the stage, set for New Year’s Eve 2024. The show took place at Jamaicas National Stadium in Kingston. If you need a comparison, it is related to Beyoncé who plays at Metlife Stadium in New Jersey – a big big deal. The concert was a historic moment for Jamaican and Dancehall culture and a privilege to witness.
In my case it was to get tickets not easy. Like when some super famous international artist announces a show or a tour, the demand for tickets was so high, the website crashed. I experienced several problems with getting my tickets, even after I bought them. Fortunately the production company that puts on the show, Downlound entertainmentHad customer service that was extremely attentive and responsive to my countless problems. Gracious, helpful, and you can say that they really cared me that I got to participate in this experience.
The series was overall incredible, from the design of the 360 ° step, to the crew of dancehall artists who went with Kartel Onstage throughout the concert. I ended in the VIP section next to the stage, which to my surprise was drinks including. Simply the best New Year’s Eve I have ever experienced and one of the best concerts I have participated.
