Tag: reggae

  • Ithaca Reggae Fest Returns for 7th Annual Celebration in 2025

    The Ithaca Reggae Fest family has announced the return of the much-loved Ithaca Reggae Fest, taking place June 20-21, 2025 in the picturesque Stewart Park, Ithaca.

    This vibrant festival celebrates reggae music and culture, bringing together fans from all walks of life for an unforgettable experience. The event promises to be a highlight of the summer, showcasing an incredible lineup of artists, delicious food, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

    Planning for the 7th Annual Ithaca Reggae Fest is already underway. As we reflect on the success of this past June’s festival, featuring unforgettable performances from John Brown’s Body, Sister Nancy, Pachyman, and more, the 2025 festival is set to be an even more magical experience.

    In the spirit of celebration, there are a very limited number of Early Bird Tickets that are now available for purchase. As always, the Friday Welcome Party on June 20 is FREE for all attendees, and children under the age of 16 can join the festivities for FREE on Saturday, June 21, when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

    Don’t miss out on the chance to relive the magic of this incredible festival. With this beautiful thriving community, organizers can’t wait for you to celebrate at the 7th Annual Ithaca Reggae Fest in Stewart Park in June, 2025

  • Singer/Songwriter Mihali Releases Latest Single “Free Ride” Ahead of Northeast US Tour

    Reggae/Indie artist Mihali has released his latest track titled “Free Ride” which is now streaming on all platforms. The single releases in the midst of his northeastern US tour, which stops in Port Chester on October 25.

    Mihali Free Ride

    The track “Free Ride” uniquely combines multiple sounds which I find extremely interesting, and effective at grabbing the listener’s attention. There are immediately elements of pop, southern rock, country, indie, reggae and even a touch of R&B. I find it fascinating that Mihali can effectively combine these very different genres and make it a sound that portrays himself.

    The track screams positivity – that it is wildly important to be yourself and to get what you want out of life. Life isn’t just a free ride, you have to seize the day, make it what you want it to be. This message is something refreshing in comparison to a lot of other messages in music today.

    Mihali is currently touring the northeast as both a solo act, and as a band. The tour consists of 15 dates total at 13 different venues. One of these stages is in Port Chester, NY, where Mihali is set to perform “Free Ride” along with his other hits live.

    Mihali Free Ride
    photo by Dave Decrescente

    Announced Mihali Tour Dates:

    September 26 – Pittsburgh, PA – The Cellar at Pittsburgh Winery ^
    September 27 – Harrisburg, PA – Stage on Herr ^
    September 28 – Bridgeport, CT – Park City Music Hall ^
    October 9 – South Deerfield, MA – Tree House Brewing Company ^ (SOLD OUT)
    October 10 – Portsmouth, NH – 3S Artspace ^
    October 11 – Pawtucket, RI – The Met ^
    October 12 – Orleans, MA – Outermost Roots & Blues Festival *
    October 18-20 – Kent, CT – Le Getaway V #
    October 25 – Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre &
    November 7 – Los Angeles, CA – The Venice West ^
    November 8 – San Diego, CA – Winstons Beach Club ^
    November 9 – Sanger, CA – Golden Road Festival ^
    November 10 – Mill Valley, CA – Sweetwater Music Hall ^

    ^ Solo Looping Set
    # Band Set
    * Solo Looping Set, with G. Love & Special Sauce
    & Solo Looping Set, with TAUK and G. Love & Special Sauce

    “When I go to write a song, sometimes I do so with a specific subject in mind, but other times the lyrics just come out of nowhere! Those surprise songs usually end up being my favorites, and Free Ride is one of those. I hope everyone takes its message to heart too. Get out there and live your life! There’s no time to waste.”

    Mihali Savoulidis

    To give a listen to Mihali’s latest single “Free Ride” and to purchase tickets to his current tour, click here.

  • Federation Sound Celebrates 25th Anniversary at Coney Island Amphitheater

    On Sunday, July 7, the Coney Island Amphitheater was alive with the sounds of reggae and dancehall music as Federation Sound celebrated their 25th anniversary.

    Founded in 1999 in Brooklyn by Max Glazer, Kenny Meez, and Cipha Sounds, Federation Sound has become a key player in the reggae scene. They are famous for their energetic shows and unique blend of classic reggae and modern dancehall.

    Federation Sound

    The night started with performances by Red Fox & Screechy Dan, who got the crowd moving with their lively set. Following them, Tifa kept the energy high with her hit songs and engaging performance. Mr. Lexx continued the party, showing why he remains a favorite in dancehall music.

    Red Fox & Screechy Dan

    Tanto Metro & Devonte were a crowd favorite, delivering hit after hit and getting everyone to sing along. Iotosh, a newer artist in the reggae world, impressed the audience with his fresh sound, mixing traditional reggae with modern vibes.

    Tanto Metro & Devonte

    A special guest performance by the legendary Johnny Osbourne was a highlight of the night. He wowed the crowd with his classic hits “Buddy Bye” and “Ice Cream Love,” bringing a wave of nostalgia and joy.

    Johnny Osbourne

    The headliners of the night, Shaggy and Sister Nancy, delivered unforgettable performances. Shaggy had the crowd dancing and singing along to his hits “Boombastic,” “Angel,” “It Wasn’t Me,” and more. Sister Nancy closed the night with her iconic songs “Bam Bam” and “One Two,” leaving the audience in awe of her powerful presence

    Shaggy

    In between some of the acts, Federation Sound kept the energy high with their DJ sets, showcasing their skill in mixing and keeping the crowd entertained.

    Sister Nancy

    Federation Sound’s 25th-anniversary show was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of reggae and dancehall culture. Fans and artists came together to honor Federation Sound’s impact on the music world, from their popular mixtapes to their influential radio shows and online streams.

  • The Marley Brothers Unite for ‘The Legacy Tour’ Coming this September to Queens

    The Marley brothers – Ziggy, Stephen, Julian, Ky-Mani, and Damian – have announced “The Legacy Tour” in honor of their father Bob Marley. The tour sees 22 dates, including a stop at Forest Hills Stadium in Queens on September 22.

    Bob Marley’s music endures as a beacon of strength, hope, and unity, attracting a growing global fanbase. For over three decades, his sons have each established themselves as renowned solo artists and have carried on their father’s legacy through their music. Now reunited on The Marley Brothers: The Legacy Tour, they’ll honor their father’s worldwide impact by performing both individual hits and classic Bob Marley songs during a momentous year for the genre.

    The world nears what would have been Bob Marley’s 80th birthday in 2025. There’s no greater homage than experiencing his music live through his sons, who carry on his enduring influence across popular culture. The tour begins September 5 in Vancouver, Canada and comes to a close on October 5 in Miami Florida. The Marley Brothers make a single stop in New York on September 22 in Forest Hills, Queens.

    THE 2024 LEGACY TOUR DATES: 

    9.05 | Vancouver, BC | Festival Lawn at Deer Lake Park

    9.06 | Ridgefield, WA | RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater

    9.08 | Auburn, WA | White River Amphitheatre

    9.10 | Concord, CA | Toyota Pavilion at Concord

    9.11 | Chula Vista, CA | North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

    9.12 |  Phoenix, AZ | Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

    9.13 | Albuquerque, NM | Isleta Amphitheater

    9.15 | Austin, TX | Germania Insurance Amphitheater

    9.16 | Dallas, TX | Dos Equis Pavilion

    9.18 | Cincinnati, OH | PNC Pavilion at Riverbend Music Center

    9.19 | Clarkston, MI | Pine Knob Music Theatre

    9.22 | Queens, NY | Forest Hills Stadium

    9.23 | Holmdel, NJ | PNC Bank Arts Center

    9.25 | Bridgeport, CT | Hartford HealthCare

    9.26 | Mansfield, MA | Xfinity Center

    9.27 | Bristow, VA | Jiffy Lube Live

    9.29 | Toronto, ON | Budweiser Stage

    9.30 | Laval, QC | Place Bell

    10.02 | Wilmington, NC | Live Oak Bank Pavilion 

    10.03 | Atlanta, GA | Lakewood Amphitheatre

    10.04 | Tampa, FL | MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amp

    10.05 | Miami, FL | FPL Solar Amphitheatre

    Tickets will be available beginning with artist pre-sales on Tuesday, April 16. Additional presales including a Citi presale will run throughout the week. The general on-sale starts on Friday, April 19 at 10 AM. For more information on The Marley Brothers’ Legacy Tour and to purchase tickets, click here.

  • Grand Reopening: Brooklyn Paramount Theater Shines Again with Damian and Stephen Marley

    After years of eager anticipation, the historic Brooklyn Paramount Theater reopened its doors to music enthusiasts on Wednesday, March 27, with a spectacular concert featuring reggae icons Damian and Stephen Marley. Part of their highly anticipated 2024 Traffic Jam Tour, the event delighted fans with a night of rhythm, melody, and cultural celebration.

    brooklyn paramount marley

    A Brief History of the Brooklyn Paramount Theater

    Originally opened in 1928, the Brooklyn Paramount Theater stood as a beacon of entertainment in the heart of New York City. With its stunning art deco architecture and state-of-the-art facilities, the theater quickly became a beloved landmark, hosting a plethora of performances ranging from live music acts to film screenings.

    Like many historic theaters, the Brooklyn Paramount faced periods of decline and neglect over the years. By the late 1960s, it had ceased operations as a theater and was repurposed for various other uses, including a disco club and a basketball arena. Despite efforts to revive it, the theater remained largely dormant for decades, with its grandeur fading into memory.

    brooklyn paramount marley

    The Renovation Project

    In recent years, a dedicated group of preservationists and investors embarked on a mission to restore the Brooklyn Paramount Theater to its former glory. Drawing inspiration from its illustrious past, the renovation project aimed to breathe new life into the venue while preserving its historic charm.

    Through meticulous restoration efforts guided by archival research and architectural expertise, the theater underwent a remarkable transformation. From refurbishing the ornate façade to upgrading its sound and lighting systems, no detail was spared in the quest to revive this cultural gem.

    The Grand Reopening Concert

    The reopening of the Brooklyn Paramount TheaterSetlist: was a momentous occasion, eagerly awaited by both locals and music enthusiasts from afar. And what better way to kick off this new chapter in the theater’s history than with a performance by two of reggae’s most influential figures?

    Damian and Stephen Marley, sons of the legendary Bob Marley, graced the stage alongside their band, offering a mesmerizing display of their musical talent. Set against the backdrop of the newly renovated theater, the duo delighted the audience with a dynamic setlist.

    The Music

    Damian and Stephen Marley chose songs from their popular collection to create a setlist that pleased both longtime and new fans. They performed tunes about unity, love, and social justice, along with some catchy melodies. Some standout songs from the concert included”Welcome to Jamrock,” “Could You Be Loved,” “Exodus,” “Medication” “The Mission,” and “Rock Stone.” Each song transported the audience on a musical journey, infusing the Brooklyn Paramount Theater with the vibrant spirit of reggae and honoring the legacy of their famous father.

    A Night to Remember

    As the music ended and applause filled the air, it was obvious that the reopening concert at the Brooklyn Paramount Theatre was a big success. For those in attendance, it wasn’t merely a concert but rather a joyous celebration of culture, community, and the unifying power of music.

    Damian and Stephen Marley – Brooklyn Paramount – Wednesday, March 27, 2024

    Setlist: Big Youth – Intro, 10,000 Chariots, The Traffic Jam, So Much Trouble in the World, All Night, Pimpa’s Paradise, Still Searchin’, Tight Ship, It Was Written, Cast The First Stone, Jah Army, Medication, The Mission, Love and Inity / Punky Reggae Party, Jamming, Is This Love, Rock Stone, Road To Zion, Welcome to Jamrock, Exodus, Could You Be Loved

  • Michael Franti and Spearhead Announce Togetherness Tour Feat. Stephen Marley and Trevor Hall

    Michael Franti and Spearhead have announced they will be touring throughout the US beginning this April. The tour will see three dates in New York – Hutton Brickyards Event Center in Kingston, Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards in Lafayette, and Pier 17+ in New York City.

    Spearhead michael franti tour
    Michael Franti and Spearhead || Photo Credit: Wayan Rodesh

    The tour’s name, Togetherness, was birthed from Michael Franti’s idea that folks are simply not close enough to each other. Franti believes that we should connect with one another more often and feel that powerful togetherness.

    Michael Franti and Spearhead will perform their funk, reggae, and jazz hits from April 6 through August 25. The tour will also include musical support from huge reggae artists like Stephen Marley and Trevor Hall. The show will consist of high-energy, uplifting and inspirational music for the spirit.

    The tour will kick off April 6 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and wrap up in Santa Cruz, California. The tour will stop three times in New York – Kingston on June 20, Lafayette on June 22, and Pier 17+ on July 12. Franti and Spearhead’s music is all about the spreading of love and togetherness, which is the theme of this tour.

    Pre-sales will begin February 7 at noon local time and general on-sale will begin Friday, February 9 at 10 a.m. local time at MichaelFranti.com. Newly added dates go on sale March 29 at 10 a.m. local time.

    Michael Franti & Spearhead’s Togetherness Tour 2024
    April 6 // Tortuga Music Festival // Ft. Lauderdale, FL
    April 10 // Soul Kitchen Music Hall^ // Mobile, AL             
    April 12 // The Key West Amphitheater^ // Key West, FL
    April 13 // Florida Groves Music Festival // Orlando, FL
    April 28 // New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival // New Orleans, LA
    May 17 // Pure Imagination // Prescott, AZ
    May 24 // Los Colonias Park Amphitheater^ // Grand Junction, CO
    May 25 // Hipico^ // Santa Fe, NM
    May 26 // Durango Mesa Park^ // Durango, CO
    May 29 // Belly Up^ // Aspen, CO
    May 31 // Red Rocks Amphitheater$ // Morrison, CO
    June 1 // Chautauqua Auditorium // Boulder, CO
    June 3 // McGrath Amphitheatre*^ // Cedar Rapids, IA
    June 5 // EPIC Event Center*^ // Green Bay, WI
    June 6 // The Sylvee*^ // Madison, WI
    June 7 // Hilde Performance Center*^ // Plymouth, MN
    June 8 // KC Live!*^ // Kansas City, MO
    June 11 // Steelhouse*^ // Omaha, NE
    June 13 // Riverfront Live*^ // Cincinnati, OH
    June 14 // Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park*^ // Indianapolis, IN
    June 15 // Ravinia Festival+^ // Highland Park, IL
    June 16 // Evans Amphitheater*^ // Cleveland, OH
    June 18 // Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort*^ // Middlefield, CT
    June 19 // Summer Stage at Tree House Brew Co*^ // Deerfield, MA
    June 20 // Hutton Brickyards Retreat & Event Center*^ // Kingston, NY
    June 21 // Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course*^ // Grantville, PA
    June 22 // Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards*^ // Lafayette, NY
    June 23 // Maine Savings Amphitheater+^ // Bangor, ME
    June 25 // Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom+^ // Hampton Beach, NH
    June 26 // Freeman Arts Pavilion+^ // Selbyville, DE
    June 28 // Salvage Station+^ // Asheville, NC
    June 29 // Salvage Station#^ // Asheville, NC
    June 30 // Roanoke Island Festival Park#^ // Manteo, NC
    July 5 // Greenfield Lake Amphitheater^ // Wilmington, NC
    July 6 // Greenfield Lake Amphitheater^ // Wilmington, NC
    July 7 // Greenfield Lake Amphitheater^ // Wilmington, NC
    July 9 // The Chicken Box // Nantucket, MA
    July 10 // The Chicken Box // Nantucket, MA
    Aug. 25 // Mountain Sol Festival // Santa Cruz, CA

    Newly Added Dates

    July 2 // Coves Amphitheater^ // Union Hall, VA
    July 12 // Pier 17+ // New York, NY
    July 13 // Seaside Heights Beach Stage+ // Seaside Heights, NJ
    July 14 // Vibe Fest Presents Hearts and Hands at Ting Pavilion+ // Charlottesville, VA
    July 25 // The Sound%^ // Del Mar, CA
    July 26 // The Greek Theatre%^ // Los Angeles, CA
    July 27 // Pepsi Amphitheater%^ // Flagstaff, AZ
    July 31 // Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater at Deer Valley Resort%^ // Park City, UT
    Aug. 1 // Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater%^ // Nampa, ID
    Aug. 3 // Salmonfest // Ninilchik, AK
    Aug. 6 // Centennial Hall Convention Center // Juneau, AK
    Aug. 9 // Ironstone Amphitheatre@% // Murphys, CA
    Aug. 10 // Redding Civic Auditorium Outdoor Lawn%^ // Redding, CA
    Aug. 13 // Britt Pavilion%^ // Jacksonville, OR
    Aug. 14 // Hayden Homes Amphitheater%^ // Bend, OR 
    Aug. 16 // McMenamins Edgefield Amphitheater%^ // Troutdale, OR
    Aug. 17 // BECU Live at Northern Quest%^ // Airway Heights, WA
    Aug. 18 // Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery%^ // Woodinville, WA
    Aug. 22 // Grand Theatre at The Grand Sierra Resort%^ // Reno, NV
    Aug. 23 // The Backyard%^ // Sacramento, CA
    Aug. 24 // Fox Theater%^ // Oakland, CA

  • UB40 Announces Red Red Wine Tour Celebrating 45th Anniversary

    UB40’s summer tour will kick off in NYC on July 2 at Sony Hall on a tour that will feature UB40’s hits as well as songs from their upcoming album, UB45.

    The Red Red Wine Tour will also feature other artists on select dates including The English Beat, Inner Circle, Maxi Priest, Third World, and Fastest Land Animal.

    This upcoming tour marks the third straight year that the band will rock audiences in the US. UB40 will have two dates in New York on July 2 and Aug. 15. Sony Hall in Manhattan will see UB40 kick off the tour live with their world-renowned hits, and new releases. They are also performing at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theater in Nassau County on Aug. 15.

    “We’re excited to get back to the States again for our third year in a row, as we love coming to America.  We can’t wait to play songs from our new album that we’re so very proud of, showcasing Matt Doyle’s vocals on the tracks. He’s brought a new lease of life to our music, as has the addition of our ‘permanent guest’ MC Gilly G and my son on backing vocals, Matt Campbell, carrying on the legacy. When you play songs over so many years, the arrangements and vocals evolve and change. These updated versions of our hits are still close to the originals, but now reflect how we perform them today and they sound better than ever.”

    Robin Campbell, UB40 Guitarist

    The band’s impactful reggae-pop music will be out in full effect this summer. The talent and influence that UB40 emanates is something to behold live. The band will showcase their abilities in celebration of their 45th anniversary, as well as the release of the UB45 album which commemorates the anniversary as well.

    Red Red Wine 2024 Tour Dates:

    July 2              Sony Hall – New York, NY

    July 3              The Wilbur – Boston, MA

    July 5              The Great Cedar Showroom at Foxwoods Resort Casino – Mashantucket, CT

    July 6              The Event Center at Hollywood Casino – Charles Town, WV

    July 7              Freeman Arts Pavilion – Selbyville, DE

    July 10            Bergen Performing Arts Center – Englewood, NJ

    July 11            OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino – Niagara Falls, ONT

    July 12            FIM Capitol Theatre – Flint, MI

    July 13            The Event Center at Rhythm City Casino and Resort – Davenport, IA

    July 15            Clowes Memorial Hall – Indianapolis, IN

    July 16            Marion Cultural and Civic Center – Marion, IL

    July 18            The Lincoln – Cheyenne, WY

    July 19            The Amphitheater at Canyon’s Village – Park City, UT

    July 20            Shoshone Bannock Casino – Fort Hall, ID

    July 21            Emerald Queen Casino – Tacoma, WA

    July 23            Oregon Spirit Distillers – Bend, OR

    July 25            Mountain Winery – Saratoga, CA

    July 26            Morongo Casino — Cabazon, CA

    July 27            Star of the Desert Arena at Buffalo Bills – Primm, NV

    July 28            Green Music Center Sonoma State University – Rohnert Park, CA

    July 30            Ace of Spades – Sacramento, CA

    July 31            The Greek Theatre – Los Angeles, CA

    August 2          Chumash Casino Resort and Spa – Santa Ynez, CA

    August 3          Wildhorse Pass – Chandler, AZ

    August 4        Casino Del Sol Resort – Tucson, AZ

    August 5          The Bridge at Santa Fe Brewing Company – Santa Fe, NM

    August 8          The Sound at Coachman Park – Clearwater, FL

    August 9          Pompano Beach Amphitheatre – Pompano, FL

    August 10       The Saint Augustine Amphitheatre – St. Augustine, FL

    August 11        King Center for the Performing Arts, Melbourne, FL

    August 15      Eisenhower Park – Harry Chapin Lakeside Theater – Nassau County, NY

    August 16      Seaside Heights Live – Seaside Heights, NJ

    August 17      El Patio – Dorado, Puerto Rico

    August 18      University of the Virgin Islands, Hermen E. Moore Golf Course – St. Thomas – USVI

    Pre-sale is February 7 and 8; and on sale is on February 9 for most shows (unless otherwise listed). Tickets and fan experiences are available for purchase at UB40.GLOBAL.