Reggae Sumfest 2018: This is Love

Over the weekend, Montego Bay, Jamaica, invited the world into its social space. While conflict is a part of the geography, we can never forget that love also occupies a space. And as part of the reggae and dancehall culture, like other worlds of art, egos, self centered behavior, and maliciousness is a part of the construct.

This is part of the appeal, to boast up yourself and mash up the opponent. But it is exhausting to do as it is to watch the take down between men and artists. So, for us the highlight of the Reggae Sumfest 2018, the bashment dancehall and the reggae universal vibe, is the one love clearly shown on both nights.

The moment was not only for the fans. It was also a moment for the artist to give each other some strength and respect. Like any other art form, music is a rough road to trod. And though you and the rap crew or the posse step out as one, at the end, many a man stands alone. While the dollars are crisp, the humanity is stripped bare.

Salute to the love and respect shared between the artists. We can only hope it carries them forth to continue doing many remarkable things in and out of the arts.

Reggae Sumfest 2018: Spice & Miss Kitty

During dancehall night, Spice and Miss Kitty created a historic moment. While this is not the first time they have performed together, their ability to remain friends despite the pressures of stardom is phenomenal, especially in dancehall.

Reggae Sumfest: Beres Hammond & Beenie Man

We saw two generations of legends, Beres Hammond and Beenie Man, meeting on a common ground. Uncle Beres generously shared the stage, vibing, singing, and fusing two distinct styles as one.

Family Love.

Reggae Sumfest 2018: Cham & Damian "Junior Gong" Marley

Later, it was a treat to watch Cham and Junior Gong performing together. And while it is common for artists to do this during a festival to hype the crowd, we must mention that they have a long-standing friendship. And attesting to the character of Cham, we also saw him respectfully vibing with his all female band and dancers on stage.©