Rastafarian reggae artist Rufftop Rock I, who hails from both the Roses Hill, St. Andrew and Allman Hill, St. Catherine communities in Jamaica, has just released his first EP. It’s a four-track extended play project titled The World Needs Love, and it comes to us courtesy of Reggae Vibes Music.

With the exception of Life Is What You Make It, track number three, all the other songs have been featured on previously released rhythm-driven projects. The World Needs Love (track #1) is on the Reggae Star Riddim, In These Times (track #2) is on the World Rebirth Riddim and Unity (track #4) is on the Reggae Love & Unity Riddim. 

All the aforementioned compilations were released by Reggae Vibes Music, the imprint that is now representing Rufftop Rock I. The team initially wanted to put out a full album with approximately ten tracks, but they instead opted for an EP as they felt it was a better way to introduce Rufftop to the masses.

As for his part, Rufftop Rock I was the one who decided to call the EP The World Needs Love, because based on all that is happening right now he genuinely believes that to be the case. When asked what he would like people to take away from this project he said the following: “compete with no one but yourself, try to be a better version of yourself everyday, and know that everything you see around you is an idea that came from us so just be your best self everyday.”

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD “THE WORLD NEEDS LOVE”

On Friday, August 6th, the city of Miramar in Florida (U.S.A.) will join Jamaicans all over the world in celebrating the nation’s 59th Emancipation and Independence. They are doing so by hosting an event dubbed Jamaica Emancipendence Celebration at the Regional Park Amphitheater.

In addition to having a distinguished lineup of guest speakers, they will also feature some musical performances. International recording artist Etana is among those confirmed to perform.

This year is the 20th anniversary of the annual Jerk Festival held in Toronto, Ontario (Canada). Regretfully, because of the pandemic the organizers have decided to go virtual as oppose to having an in-person event.

That being said, the festival will be held on August 6th, 7th and 8th and it will stream live on their website: jerkfestival dot ca. Artists that have been confirmed are Tarrus Riley, Marcia Griffiths, Lukie D and Dean Fraser.

Reggae legend Lee Scratch Perry will return to Liverpool on Saturday, November 13th for a live show at 24 Kitchen Street. This is an 18 and over event that’s schedule to start at 7PM local time.

Tickets, which range from 20 to 25 pound sterling, are available via skiddle.

Xana Romeo, the youngest daughter of veteran reggae artist Max Romeo, is gearing up to release a brand new album in August. The project, which is dubbed The Roots Of X, has nine tracks and will feature collaborations with Azizzi Romeo, Addis Pablo and Max Romeo.

Although the album will not be officially out until August 6th, it is now available for pre-order on Apple Music and other streaming platforms.

On Sunday, July 25th, two legendary reggae bands, Third World and The Skatalites, will perform at Bernie’s Beach Bar (located at 73 Ocean Blvd.) in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire. Tickets for this event, which are currently going for $25 USD, are available via Ticketmaster.