Jamaican music has lost one of its most influential architects with the passing of Lowell “Sly” Dunbar, who died on January 26, 2026, at the age of 73. Widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers in reggae history, Sly Dunbar helped shape the sound of Jamaican music for more than five decades.

Born in Kingston, Sly rose to prominence in the early 1970s and went on to form the legendary rhythm duo Sly & Robbie with bassist Robbie Shakespeare. Together, they became one of the most prolific and innovative partnerships in global music, defining the rockers rhythm and pushing reggae, dub, and dancehall into new creative territory through their Taxi Records label.

Sly Dunbar’s influence reached far beyond Jamaica. His unmistakable drum patterns powered recordings by artists such as Black Uhuru, Peter Tosh, Bob Marley, Grace Jones, Bob Dylan, and countless others, earning him multiple Grammy Awards and international acclaim. Even in pop and contemporary music, his rhythms continued to resonate with new generations of listeners.

With Sly Dunbar’s passing, the world remembers a pioneer whose work carried Jamaican sound to every corner of the globe. His legacy lives on in the rhythms that continue to inspire musicians and audiences alike.

Magnolia Restaurant & Lounge presents Magnolia Rouge, an elegant Valentine’s night in the heart of the Turks and Caicos Islands, on Saturday, February 14. Designed as an intimate evening experience, the event blends fine dining with live entertainment in a candlelit atmosphere ideal for couples and music lovers alike.

The night features a special performance by Gramps Morgan, whose soulful sound and charismatic presence have earned him international acclaim. Dinner reservations begin at 5:00 PM, with the live performance scheduled to start at 10:00 PM. Guests are encouraged to RSVP to secure their place for this exclusive Valentine’s celebration.

Magnolia Restaurant & Lounge is located at 76 Sunburst Road in the Turks and Caicos Islands. For additional information and reservations, please contact Magnolia through its official channels.

The Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA) continues its seventeenth anniversary celebrations by launching Reggae Month with a special tribute entitled “Honoring the Crown Prince.” This event, themed “Rhythms of Resilience,” serves as a memorial to the legendary Dennis Brown. This is being presented in association with the Dennis Brown Trust.

The event features George Nooks, Hezron, Pam Hall, Benjy Myaz, and Joseph Benaiah, with several additional performers scheduled to appear. In keeping with the elegant nature of the tribute, the organizers have designated this as an “All White” affair.

Scheduled for February 1, 2026, the tribute will take place at the Edna Manley College Amphitheater beginning at 8:00 PM. Admission to the venue is free to the public.

Black Uhuru will take the stage at The Freight (2020 Addison Street) in Berkeley, California, on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the show scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM. Tickets are currently available through platforms such as AXS and Vivid Seats, with prices ranging from approximately $44 to $49.

This Berkeley appearance forms part of Black Uhuru’s 2026 tour, which continues the following night with a stop at The Thirsty Axe in Ukiah on February 22.

Reggae audiences in New York will have the opportunity to experience the uplifting sound of Winston Irie on February 5, 2026. The event, titled “A Reggae Remedy: BEET the Winter Blues,” will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Ginny’s @ The Red Rooster, located at 310 Lenox Avenue in New York.

Guests can expect an evening of reggae music complemented by cocktails and light bites in an intimate setting. This event is hosted by Green Beetz, a non-profit organization that empowers elementary and middle school students to navigate the modern food system, and to make healthy and sustainable food choices. Tickets are priced at $100, with proceeds supporting Green Beetz’s work in schools.

Guyanese-born and New York-based, Winston Irie is known for his spiritually grounded approach to roots reggae and his commanding live performances alongside the Selective Security Band.

Roots, Rock & Reggae will headline the opening of Agriculture Show Week in Grand Cayman. Scheduled for Saturday, February 14, the pre-agriculture concert runs from 7:00 p.m. to midnight and celebrates the connection between reggae music and the local community.

The event features reggae icon Freddie McGregor alongside The Big Ship Crew. Joining Freddie on stage are Chino McGregor, Xosia McGregor, and Stephen McGregor, adding a multi-generational showcase of talent rooted in Jamaican musical heritage. This event will be hosted at the Stacey Watler Agricultural Pavilion and Fairgrounds in Bodden Town.

More than just a musical event, the 2026 edition is dedicated to humanitarian and agricultural growth. Proceeds will fund local Caymanian farming projects and support Jamaican farmers in their recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa. Click here for tickets and additional information.