Reggae Sumfest Celebrates Successful Return

July 24, 2022

After a 2 year of hiatus, reggae lovers were treated to five days of musical extravaganza and live entertainment in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The return of Sumfest was dubbed the “greatest Show on Earth”. Patrons truly enjoyed the week long festivities from July 18th – 23^rd.  From the street dance, all white party and sound clash, Jamaica was the place to be despite all the negativity with crimes. Bass Odyssey took home the sound clash trophy after a vicious battle with 2019 winner Warrior sound. The Downsound teams were ready to unleash an event of a lifetime. Captivating 2 nights of energetic stage performances, each artist took advantage of the opportunity at hand. Night 1 saw all the best in dancehall represent at the highest level. The crowd was treated to the usual quality performances from veterans like Spice, Alkaline, Masicka, Shenseea, Adonia, Ding Dong, Govana, Chronic Law, Tee Jay, Iwaata, and Intence. Harry Toddler of the “Scare Dem Crew” took time out of his act to pay a special tribute to the late Merciless. The young sensations like Jashi, Yaksta, Nation Boss, 450 and Laalee were crowd favorites as they proved to be a part of the elites. Lyrical jabs were thrown between several acts as they tried to gain the upper hand in the industry.  Ishawna was up to her usual controversial ways as she decided to get the “Warlord” cross by using a prop during her “equal right” segment. The Killer did not take it lightly as he was vicious in his reply. Spice gave a dynamic performance and was crowned “Queen of the Dancehall”.  Nonetheless, the veterans totally took control the festival as patrons were given their monies worth. Night 2 was a bit more of anticipation due to it being the grand finale. The maestro Beres Hammond proved why he is still the top male vocalist as he serenaded the ladies with his timeless catalog. Koffee, Dexta Daps, Christopher Martin and D’yani were in top forms as they put on the performances of their careers. Dance choreographer Chriss Choreo did an electrifying performance and brought the heat with D’yani as she danced her way across the stage and in an epic shower scene.

A special tribute was done on behalf “Madhouse” for Dave Kelley. It was only fitting as we witnessed nearly all of the artists who worked with the phenomenal producer over the years. He was the leading dancehall producer throughout the mid 90’s to 2000’s. Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Wayne Wonder, Cham, Mr. Easy, Spragga Benz and Frisco Kid were on fire as they went tune for tune in the special segment. Sadly there were no female acts in the tribute and Kelly wasn’t in sight. Cham complained about the late start and patrons fumed about the lengthy band changes. Sizzla was the closing act and was challenged by the rain. The always energetic Sizzla brought the fire and gave a rousing performance despite the showers of blessings. The festival committee will regroup and address some of the hiccups that were noticeable throughout. Nonetheless, a successful event.