Bridging Borders Through Sound: What to Expect at the 2026 Japan x Jamaica Link Up

Posted on February 16, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

The Japan x Jamaica Link Up returns to Kingston this year as a cornerstone of the official Reggae Month 2026 calendar. Scheduled for Thursday, February 19, at the Dubwise Cafe, it’s presented by Okamai and Gacha Medz with the formal support of the Embassy of Japan in Jamaica. The event serves as a high-profile platform for musical exchange, recognizing the deep-rooted connection between the two nations through the universal language of reggae and dancehall.

The evening features several live performers, including Junior Reid, Jesse Royal, and Pinchers, alongside Japanese artists Chehon, 775, and Vigorman. Attendees can also expect a performance from a secret special guest, with sound system sets provided by Stone Love, Oga from Jah Works Sound, and DJ Molly.

Running from 8:00 PM to 11:30 PM, the event offers free admission to the public, powered by sponsors Tamao East Japanese Restaurant and Hanz Mart. For those unable to attend the Lady Musgrave Road venue in person, the festivities will be broadcast live globally on Twitch via the Gacha Medz channel.

Mad Cobra and Lady G Set to Perform at the 2026 One Love Reggae Festival

Posted on February 13, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

The 4th Annual One Love Reggae Festival, which is being presented by Reggae Visa Lawyer, returns to Lake David Park in Groveland, Florida, on Saturday, February 28, 2026. It will be headlined by dancehall legends Mad Cobra and Lady G. The lineup also features Esco Da Shocker and Wilful Skilful.

Designed with all ages in mind, the One Love Reggae Festival is a family-friendly experience. The event grounds will host a dedicated Kidz Zone to keep younger fans entertained, alongside a Kulture Korner and a live Fashion Show that highlights the rich artistic heritage of the region.

From 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere that honors the spirit of reggae music while providing a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike to connect. Admission is free to the public.

Jill Scott, Common and More Lead HBCU Aware Fest Lineup

Posted on February 12, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

The HBCU Aware Fest is being billed as the biggest HBCU fundraiser ever and will take place on March 26, 2026, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. Hosted by Nick Cannon, the event brings together an extraordinary lineup of music, culture, and community in support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Performers include celebrated acts such as Jill Scott, Earth, Wind & Fire, Metro Boomin, Tems, Kirk Franklin, and Common, along with many others. The evening will also feature a special performance inspired by Alicia Keys’ Broadway production, plus appearances from influential figures across business, sports, and entertainment.

The initiative is supported by Live Nation Urban and Student Freedom Initiative, with tickets available at awarefest.org.

Pon Di River Presents Tanya Stephens Live in French Guiana

Posted on February 12, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Pon Di River will host a special evening of reggae and dancehall as Jamaican recording artist Tanya Stephens takes the stage at Salle Le Diamant in French Guiana. The event takes place on Sunday, March 8, from 5:00 PM to midnight, in recognition of International Women’s Rights Day.

Tanya Stephens is known for her socially conscious, fearless, unapologetic musical expression within the global reggae and dancehall arena. Opening the show will be Guyanese vocalist Dah Yana, a respected female voice on the local music scene.

The atmosphere will be energized by musical selections from DJs Warren, Original Lo, Wyh, and Pyroman C.A, creating a festive and vibrant experience in keeping with the Pon Di River spirit. Click here for tickets and additional information.

City of Miramar to Honor Wayne Wonder with Dancehall Legend Award at 2026 Showdown

Posted on February 9, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

The City of Miramar is hosting the Miramar Selecta Showdown in recognition of Dancehall Week, scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026. This high-energy event will run from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Shirley Branca Park, which is located at 6900 Miramar Parkway. Admission is free for the public.

Hosted by Commissioner Carson “Eddy” Edwards, the evening will feature an all-female lineup of selectas, including DJ Lady Terra, DJ Rere, and DJ Shawty Redz. Attendees can look forward to a live competition where the winning selecta will be awarded a $1,000 prize. The event also features a special presentation of the Dancehall Legend Award to the renowned artist Wayne Wonder, with MC Supa Twitch serving as the master of ceremonies.

The Miramar Selecta Showdown is part of the broader Afro-Carib Weekend Experience and is supported by Miramar Parks and Recreation. While admission is free, guests are encouraged to RSVP through the official Eventbrite page. Food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site.

Baby Cham and Agent Sasco Headline Rhythm on the Rocks in Toronto

Posted on February 9, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Rhythm on the Rocks: A Taste of Jamaica will bring an exciting celebration of Caribbean culture to the Toronto Event Centre on February 27, from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Hosted by the Jamaica Tourist Board, the event highlights the vibrant spirit of Jamaica through music and food.

The evening will feature live performances from dancehall artists Baby Cham and Agent Sasco, alongside appearances by selectors Spexdaboss and D’Bandit. Patrons will enjoy a rich blend of rum, cocktails, Jamaican cuisine, and reggae beats in an atmosphere inspired by the energy and flavor of the island.

Early bird general admission tickets are available for $40, with VIP access at $75 and VIP booths priced at $400. Early bird pricing ends February 14. The Toronto Event Centre is located at 15 Saskatchewan Road in Toronto, Ontario.

Roots Bamboo Presents: Sizzla Kalonji Live in Concert on March 6

Posted on February 8, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Reggae music legend Sizzla Kalonji will be hitting the stage for a live performance at Roots Bamboo in Negril, Jamaica on March 6, 2026. The show includes guest appearances by Tish Brown, Unstoppable, and the Hurricane Band, with the rhythmic energy of DJ Absolute and the charismatic MC Blazze hosting the evening.

The venue offers fans two tiers of admission pricing. Early birds can secure presold tickets for $40 USD or 6000 JMD, while those paying at the gate will find tickets available for $50 USD or 7500 JMD. Tickets are currently being sold via Eventbrite.

As this is a premium event hosted at one of Negril’s iconic venues, patrons are reminded to drink responsibly and must be 18 years or older to consume alcohol.