Since its inception in 1992, the diversified music festival that is Reggae Sumfest has captivated its audiences by providing a vast array of Reggae, Dancehall and International performance acts. Now in its 19th year, the coveted event has epitomized the concepts of quality and innovation through various creative promotional techniques. The inventive organizers of Reggae Sumfest maintain their reputable status by preserving the authenticity of Reggae and Dancehall music while enhancing the appeal of various international genres. Though dedicated to delivering first-rate performances to all Sumfest patrons, this year, the festival has tailored its marketing strategy to include a younger audience. As a result, the directors of the three day event have incorporated social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter to help foster the development of online interaction. Not only has the employment of these media broadened the scope of supporters but they have also allowed patrons to actively participate in the production of the event. Additionally, the Reggae Sumfest stage continues to serve as one of the primary platforms for new and upcoming artistes to showcase their talents.
In keeping with the concept of “new”, Reggae Sumfest will broadcast the July festival by way of Live Stream on the Internet as well as mobile phones. The transmission, available solely to audiences outside of Jamaica was introduced to allow international fans access to the festival performances. As Reggae Sumfest is renowned for alluring various media and visitors alike, the concept of live streaming strengthens the recruitment of global supporters.
Branded as “The Greatest Reggae Show on Earth”, Reggae Sumfest has attributed its achievements to the relationships that it has developed over the years. According to Marcia McDonnough, Marketing Manager of the event, “The continued success of Reggae Sumfest is a direct result of the combined efforts of our reoccurring sponsors, hotel partners as well as the dedicated local and international press who all, for years, have ceaselessly promoted the Reggae Sumfest brand.” Long standing sponsors such as Red Stripe, Digicel, The Jamaica Tourist Board, Irie FM, CVM TV and Air Jamaica have all fully invested in the esteemed music festival as it indisputably embodies the spirit of the Jamaican people and subsequently their corporate mission. These factors combined with the loyalty and love of the patrons makes Sumfest and unbeatable event”
McDonnough also commends the directors at Summerfest Productions for the enormity of the festival’s success. She states, “The executive body is constantly amending the show to ensure that patrons receive the best Sumfest experience”. When asked to comment on what to expect for next year’s staging, McDonnough hinted that the 20th staging of the Festival which will fall in Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary of Independence will undoubtably break all records previously set, in terms of attendance, star power and customer satisfaction.
Reggae Sumfest is slated to take place from Friday July 21st –July 23rd at the Catherine Hall venue in Montego Bay, St. James.
Line up:
DANCEHALL NIGHT – JULY 21, 2011
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INTERNATIONAL NIGHT (1) – JULY 22, 2011
- R. Kelly
- Beres Hammond
- Half Pint
- Tanya Stephens
- Christopher Martin
- Richie Loops
- Paul Elliott
- iBa Mahr
- Prophecy
- Belinda Brady
INTERNATION NIGHT (2) – JULY 23, 2011
- Nicki Minaj
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Jah Cure
- Wayne Wonder
- Gyptian
- Protoje
- Chalice
- Cherine Anderson
- Hezron
- Denyque
- Laza Morgan
- Ashley Martin
- Trudy [Booty Dance Competition]
For more information please check out the Reggae Sumfest website here
