The eighth edition of Roots in the Woods Festival is set for August 20–22, 2026, at RTC Trije Kralji in the scenic Pohorje Mountains of Slovenia. Renowned for its intimate atmosphere and celebration of sound system culture, the three-day event will once again bring together reggae, dub, ska, dancehall, jungle, and drum & bass enthusiasts from across Europe.

The festival’s final lineup features a mix of international artists and sound systems, including Ranking Joe & Irie Ites, Mikey General & DJ Afghan, Imperial Sound Army, The Liquidators, Ondubground, Salomon Heritage & Ganja Tree, Lion D, ART-X, Zion Garden, Forelock, I Sens & Selecta Antwan, Irie Anto, Black Lion Hi Vibes, Peace Messenger, Freedom Fighters, Jahlin Selecta, Jahmoodonic Collective, Jahmessenjah, Stepper’s Tribe Sound System, Rise Up Hi Fi, Conscious Way Outernational Hi Powa, Cukumaka Sound System, Skankin Foundation, Monodread Sound System, Cloud Velvet, Mufajah Sound, and many more.

With a limited capacity of just 500 attendees, Roots in the Woods continues to offer a boutique festival experience that combines world-class music, mountain camping, wellness activities, and a strong sense of community in one of Europe’s most picturesque outdoor settings.

Reggae artist Xana Romeo has released the official music video for her inspiring single, “Hotta The Battle,” which premiered on her VEVO channel on August 6, 2026.

The song appears on the Victory Riddim released in mid-June by Conquering Lion Records. The riddim pays tribute to Ethiopia’s historic victory over the invading Italian army at the Battle of Adwa on March 1, 1896—a defining moment that continues to symbolize sovereignty, resistance, and Pan-Africanism.

In “Hotta The Battle,” Xana Romeo draws on her Rastafarian faith, expressing her unwavering belief that those devoted to Rastafari are divinely protected by the Most High, regardless of the challenges they face.

Directed by Quan Nelson, the music video features Xana performing before a picturesque waterfall while dressed in the red, gold, and green colours synonymous with Rastafari.

Reggae singer-songwriter JAH9 is scheduled to perform live at The Harp in San Diego, California, on Thursday, August 20, 2026. Presented by The Harp and Right Vibes Productions, the event will also feature Kat Hall, with MC Ras Mike and DJ Unite.

Doors open at 8:00 p.m., with the show beginning at 9:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at $40 and can be purchased on the venue’s website.

For producer Sean Lewis Folkes, whose musical foundation was shaped during the 1980s, honoring reggae’s pioneers is second nature. At the same time, he understands that staying relevant is essential to creating music that resonates with today’s audience. That philosophy is reflected in his latest production, “When You Love Me,” the new single by reggae icon Marcia Griffiths. Released on June 5 through his South Florida-based LF Records, the song reunites Lewis Folkes with one of reggae’s most celebrated and enduring voices.

Although he had previously produced recordings for Griffiths, those songs were never officially released, making “When You Love Me” their first commercial collaboration. Griffiths, who will celebrate her 77th birthday in November, brought the same professionalism and artistry that have defined her remarkable career spanning more than six decades. “She’s prepared yet intuitive, refining melodies to serve the message,” Lewis Folkes said. “Her calm focus in the studio ensures authenticity, grounding each project in cultural integrity and artistic purpose.”

On the recording, Griffiths is backed by the popular Code Red Band, one of South Florida’s premier backing bands.

Rather than attempting to modernize Griffiths‘ sound by following current musical trends, Lewis Folkes chose an approach that balances tradition with contemporary appeal. “With Marcia Griffiths, it is never classic versus current. You serve both,” he explained. “You preserve the classic by respecting the ingredients. You make it current by cooking for today’s ears. You are not chasing trends; you are translating feelings.”

Born in rural Jamaica, Lewis Folkes migrated to the United States as a teenager and later served in the U.S. military. Over the years, he has built an impressive production résumé, working with established reggae artists including Luciano, Ed Robinson, Screwdriver, and Pressure Busspipe, while also collaborating with emerging talent in Jamaica and South Florida.

When Lewis Folkes entered the music industry in the 1990s, Griffiths was already enjoying another successful chapter in her storied career. Alongside artists such as Beres Hammond, Buju Banton, Wayne Wonder, and Cutty Ranks, she helped establish Penthouse Records as one of the most influential reggae labels of the decade with hits including “I Shall Sing,” “Land of Love,” and “Live On.”

Griffiths‘ career began in the mid-1960s at Studio One, where she was mentored by legendary producer Clement ‘Coxsone’ Dodd and singer-songwriter Bob Andy. During her time there, she recorded enduring classics such as “Feel Like Jumping,” “Mark My Word,” and “Really Together,” a duet with Bob Andy.

In the 1970s, Griffiths toured the world as a member of I Threes, providing harmonies for Bob Marley. Throughout that decade, she also recorded timeless songs including “Dreamland” and “Stepping Out of Babylon” for producer Sonia Pottinger. Her biggest commercial success came in 1982 with “Electric Boogie,” written by Bunny Wailer, a global hit that remains one of reggae’s most recognizable songs.

Jamaican cultural gospel and soul artist LFM, formerly known as TK Kiss, is ushering in a new chapter of her career with the release of her inspirational reggae single, “Freedom of Choice,” available now on all major digital streaming platforms via Blakkwuman22 Music.

Written and produced by SheltaRock, formerly Karamanti, the song delivers a powerful message about choosing faith and righteousness over ego and negativity. “Freedom of Choice” encourages listeners to embrace the transformative relationship they can have with the Most High while recognizing the power of personal choice.

For LFM, the release also signifies an important personal and artistic transformation. Performing previously as TK Kiss, she built a reputation through reggae and dancehall recordings that addressed social issues and empowerment. Her new identity reflects a deeper commitment to creating music rooted in faith.

“The name Learn From Me represents my journey,” says LFM. “Every experience has taught me valuable lessons, and I want my music to encourage others to find strength, purpose, and hope in their own lives.”

Recorded and mixed at Prosonic Studio in Hughenden, “Freedom of Choice” is available now on all major digital music platforms.