Swirling rumors that Jamaican dancehall heart throb Busy Signal, born Glendale Gordon had his US work permit reinstated and is traveling to New York to perform at Groovin’ In The Park, is triggering a rare media frenzy in entertainment circles. As it happens, Groovin Inc founder & CEO Chris Roberts is confirming that the rumors are true and Busy Signal will in fact be delivering his first official performance on US soil at the premier reggae and R&B sizzler on Sunday June 25 at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, NY.

Joining Busy at Groovin’ In The Park will be R&B hit maker R Kelly who will deliver his first outdoor performance in NYC in almost a decade. Groovin’ In The Park will also feature reggae /rocksteady icons Freddie McGregor, Ken Boothe, U Roy and Leroy Sibbles with Lloyd Parks and We The People Band supported by an orchestra with the sweet sounds of violins, violas, cellos and a harp, plus the Lenox Hill Rd Baptist choir. The 17-man orchestral ensemble will be directed by Michael ‘Ibo’ Cooper, former member of the critically acclaimed Third World band and music educator/ lecturer at the Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts in Kingston, Jamaica. Tarrus Riley, one of the most accomplished of the second generation of Jamaica roots reggae singers, is also confirmed as a performer.

From Left: Anthony Malvo, Johnny P, Tiger & Oliver Samuels

Mikey Sparkle Production presents the 4th Annual Father’s Day Family Fun Day at Lithonia Prk (2515 Park Drive) in Lithonia, Georgia on Sunday, June 18th.

This year’s event will see some of Jamaica’s most respected entertainers, namely: Oliver Samuels (comedian), Anthony Malvo, Johnny P and Tiger (all veteran recording artists in their own right) gracing the stage. Music will be provided by several local DJs/selectors.

In addition to the musical entertainment, there will also be: face painting, bounce-a-bout, jump rope and lots more, aimed at keeping the kids and young peopled engaged.

For additional information, such as start time, ticket locations etc. persons are being asked to call 770-895-8549.

On Sunday, June 11^th, Farm Up Jamaica will host the Caribbean Farmers Market & Jerk Roots & Yam Festival at Roy Wilkins Park in New York.

Patrons are in for a treat as there will be live performances by: Ky-Mani Marley, Lt. Stitchie, Glen Washington, Likkle John, Thriller U (just added) and several other established reggae and dancehall artists. The MCs are comedian, Majah Hype and poet, Mutabaruka.

Additional highlights include: the first ever Caribbean Farmers Market, which will feature freshly picked Jack-fruits, Coconuts, Pineapples, Yams, Bananas, Ginger, Sour-sops and much more; roots and medicinal tonics and jerk “everything.” Finally, there will be a cook-off with up to a $1,000 in prizes going to the best chef.

All proceeds from the event will go to the Farm Up Jamaica, Farmer Assistance Fund, aimed at helping distressed Jamaican farmers and Youths aspiring to learn Organic Agriculture.

Tickets can be purchased via the following link: http://tinyurl.com/yd3gu63o

The Jamaica Sound System Festival celebrates sound system culture from across the world. It brings together players of Jamaican music (reggae, dub, ska, roots and dancehall) on one big stage. This year’s festival will take place on August 12th at Grizzly’s Planation Cove in Priory, St. Ann, Jamaica.

Hosted by Bass Odyssey Sound System, this year’s SoundFEST will feature a traditional ‘early warm’ segment where 2 to 3 sounds will take turns vibing with the crowd before the more established sounds begin at 11pm. SoundFEST 2017 will also see the return of live performances by some of the biggest artists in reggae and dancehall.

Tickets which are being sold for for $1500 JMD regular entrance and $3500 JMD VIP will be available online soon. Join the FB event page to stay updated on this festival.

Photo credit: Natty D Photography

On May 29th, American residents will have a public holiday as they celebrate Memorial Day. For those based in Florida, this means it’s time for the annual Palm Beach Jamaican Jerk Festival. One of the headlining acts for this year is Mr. Singy Singy, Tarrus Riley, who will be supported by Dean Fraser and the Blak Soil Band.

The Palm Beach Jamaican Jerk Festival takes place on Monday, May 29th at West Palm Beach, Florida 33401. It starts at 4PM and goes until midnight.