Music is one of the best windows into a cultureand nowhere is that more evident thanJamaica.
And now is an extra special time to do just that.
So, where should you actually go to get the full Jamaican music experience when you visit?
Teejay, Sevana, Samory I, Lila Iké, Jaz Elise
They also extend beyond reggae hotspots, as Jamaican music today is a true blend of multiple genres.
Her next single, Keep Going, is slated to release at the end of February.
Held annually in Montego Bay,Jamaica Rum FestivalRumfest for shortis, according to Sevana, a star-studded event.
Photo: Jik-Reuben Pringle
All liquor aside, Rumfest is also a place where performers bring their A game.
Rumfest has a bigger place in my heart for that reason.
Rain was falling when I went, but nobody cared.
Photo: Courtesy of the Jamaica Tourism Board
We were all dancing in the rain, and I was able to let go.
Inspiring lyrics aside, though, Samory Is smooth voice truly sets him apart.
His songs have a grounding and melodious rhythm that may just touch your soul.
Photo: ProdbyNick
In the times were living in now, Dub Club is the spiritual, Samory I explains.
Dub Club is Rasta music nonstop.
Its beautiful and serene, like nothing youve ever seen before until youve been there, he continues.
Photo: Courtesy of the Jamaica Tourism Board
We call it Zion, because its the temple that we go to to have fun with the world.
Thats the dream in real life, you know?
Ultimately, the party gives you the freedom to be you, which is what dancehall is all about.
Photo: Yannick Reid
And the entertainment itself?
Next level, he promises.
Beenie Man was even outside partying last night when I went…thats the vibe at Uptown Mondays.
Photo: Jik-Reuben Pringle
(Lila means blooming flower, and Ike is a Yoruba word that means power of God.)
Her lyrics highlightand raise awareness oflocal Jamaican issues, from street justice to self-love to crime and gun violence.
And thats absolutely beautiful.
Photo: Courtesy of the Jamaica Tourism Board
Its a unique and fresh experience all around, one filled with really good music and a good crowd.
The people who follow Lost in Time love music and theyknowmusic.
They arent just going to pass the time.
Photo: Rochena Murray
Theyre going for the music.
Tickets start at $60; more infohere.
Like Uptown Mondays, Boom Sundays is another popular weekly street party in Kingston.
Photo: Courtesy of the Jamaica Tourism Board
Theres a big sound system set up, and the community members justcome out, says Jaz Elise.
A lot of new artists pass through, mainly dancehall.
If you want the realest experience, you go to Boom Sundaysits really authentic.
Photo: Hakeem West
Its just a real street event.
When to go:Sunday nights, around 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. As Jaz Elise says, They dont call it Skyline for nothing!
Up Top Boss) the future of dancehall in their digital cover story.
Photo: Courtesy of the Jamaica Tourism Board
Pier One is in the city of Teejay!
But hometown pride aside, he genuinely recommends it to all travelers.
The restaurants are really nice, too, especially the finger food…and the scenery is beautiful.
So you have to place yourself in the street.
You have to market yourself so your country can know about you.
And street parties like Boasy Tuesdays are where you do that.
When to go:February 2125, 2024
