What do you know about the Black protest music that inspired Reggae Month?

As we immerse ourselves in the wealthy tapestry of February, two significant and harmonious celebrations unfold side by side – Black History Month and Reggae Month. In addition to its well-deserved give attention to African American creativity, February resonates with reggae rhythms, creating an interwoven narrative of cultural expression and social consciousness. This seamless mix of celebrations provides a poignant backdrop for delving into the intricate connections between them, exploring the profound influence of reggae music while honoring the enduring legacy of Black history.

Reggae, well known as certainly one of the few revolutionary Black protest music genres, holds steadfastly to its core tenets of unity, peace and love. Established in 2008 through a partnership between the Government of Jamaica and the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), Reggae Month took root in February, coinciding with the birthday of legendary reggae luminary Bob Marley. Born February 6, 1945, Marley is widely respected for his monumental contributions to music and his enduring legacy as a distinguished black activist.

In honor of Reggae Month, we’re taking a journey through five noteworthy events that not only have fun the genre’s profound impact on the global music scene, but in addition pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Black history. From iconic performances to insightful discussions, these annual events are a testament to the power of music to inform stories of strength, unity and an unwavering pursuit of justice during Reggae Month.

Music conference on the island

Founded by the esteemed Dr. Orville “Shaggy” Burrell, a world-renowned reggae luminary, in collaboration with Judith Bodley and Sharon Burke, Island Music Conference (IMC) appears as an annual four-day gathering of music professionals. Filled with insightful panels, immersive workshops and charming performances from key contributors to the Caribbean music scene, IMC is a vibrant melting pot. Bringing together the world’s leading music executives, artists, producers, publicists, journalists and more, the conference takes place in Kingston, Jamaica, the epicenter of reggae music. IMC goals to catalyze transformational experiences for those in the music and entertainment industry, offering the latest advice and insights through dynamic panels, workshops and invaluable networking opportunities. The conference, which takes place on February 21-25, allows participants to pre-register for the entire event or decide to participate on a selected day.

Lost in Time Festival

If you are searching for an immersive musical experience that truly embodies the soul of reggae during Reggae Month, look no further than Lost in Time Festival. Taking place on February 24 at Hope Gardens in Kingston, Jamaica, this rhythmic celebration offers a full day crammed with music, crafts, delicious food and an array of sound stages, dance floors and leisure areas for reggae lovers to collect. The organizer is the reggae collective In.Digg.Nationhosted by talented reggae artist Protoje, 2024 marks the festival’s second energetic 12 months. In addition to Protoje, this 12 months’s program will feature distinguished reggae artists reminiscent of Lila Ike, Jesse Royal, Romain Virgo, Jah9 and more, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all participants.

“Bob Marley: One Love” premiere.

If you have not run out to your local theater yet, now could be the time to grab some popcorn and immerse yourself in the charming biopic “Bob Marley: One Love”! Released on Valentine’s Day, the long-awaited, candid film offers an intimate look into the lifetime of the iconic Bob Marley.

Born Robert Nesta Marley, the musician transcends the realm of reggae, leaving an indelible mark on the broader landscape of music and black activism. His songs touched upon themes of unity, resistance, Rastafari beliefs, promoting African unity, global harmony and the timeless message of affection. Even today, Bob Marley’s music, image and name echo throughout the world.

Celebrating opening week, “Bob Marley: One Love” quickly became the #1 film in America. To have fun Reggae Month and deepen your understanding of this influential genre, culture and legend itself, don’t miss the opportunity to see it at a theater near you.

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Carnivals of Trinidad and Tobago and Dominica

Although born in Jamaica, reggae music finds a house throughout the Caribbean due to shared diasporic connections and cultural similarities. During Reggae Month, each Trinidad and Tobago AND Dominica they host famous carnivals and this just isn’t only a coincidence. Carnival, considered a pre-Lenten masquerade, symbolizes culture, resilience, liberation and freedom. In a vibrant carnival atmosphere, reggae and its sister genres, soca and calypso music, take center stage with energetic rhythms that foster unity and have uplifting, positive lyrics that create an environment of collective joy and enthusiasm. It is price noting that in each Dominica and Trinidad and Tobago, where the overwhelming majority of the Black population makes significant contributions, carnival culture embodies the spirit of resilience and freedom. This 12 months, the major carnival parades in Trinidad and Tobago and Dominica took place on February 12 and 13 respectively, with international participants already planning their 2025 trip.

JaRIA Honorary Awards

The Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), the driving force behind the nationwide celebration of Reggae Month, naturally takes the lead in organizing a series of events to commemorate the month. One of the highlights of this month-long music celebration is the highly anticipated JaRIA Honor Awards, an annual gala organized by the association to acknowledge outstanding contributions to the Jamaican music industry. The ceremony, which is able to happen on February 25, guarantees to bring together the crème de la crème of reggae culture. In addition to the accolades, two special awards, that are open to public voting, will allow winners to compete for the coveted title chosen by the public. If you want to participate on this democratic decision-making process, go to the website JaRIA Honor Awards website to solid your vote and watch the live broadcast on YouTube.

Noel Cymone Walker is a New York-based author specializing in beauty, fashion, music, travel, and cultural anthropology. She has written and produced artwork for several notable publications including The Recording Academy/The Grammys, The Fader, Billboard, OKplayer, Marie Claire, Glamour, Allure, Essence, Ebony and more.