Urban Vine Media

As a youth growing up in Jamaica the 1980s & 1990s had a soundscape and presence that was hard to ignore. We had Third World, Bob Marley, Sophia George, Sugar Minot as for Bands we had Chalice, Home T4. Events like Sting, Reggae Sunsplash. So that was aesthetic then. Over the last 30 yrs not so much.
The decline of reggae and dancehall events in Jamaica can be attributed to several factors. One major contributor is the shift in focus towards more commercialized and lucrative events, often prioritizing profit over cultural significance. This has led to a decrease in the number of events showcasing local talent, making it challenging for artists to gain exposure and promote their music. Additionally, the rise of digital platforms has changed the way people consume music, with many opting for online content over live events. The lack of support from local authorities and stakeholders has also contributed to the decline, leaving promoters and artists to bear the burden of organizing and funding events.
[Venues like Skateland Halfway Tree and Cactus in Portmore, which were staples for reggae and dancehall events, have shut down, and the privatization of beaches has limited outdoor event spaces, further reducing opportunities for live music.]

Here are some of the key elements.
– Decline of reggae and dancehall events
– Limited outlets for artists to perform and promote their music
– Sound system culture no longer a dominant part of events
– Brain drain of talent (e.g., Alkaline, Mavado, Vybz Kartel) and events to external platforms, exemplified by cases like Chronic Law’s arrest in the US, which highlights the lack of opportunities and support for local artists, driving them to seek greener pastures.
Here are some potential solutions in a synopsis. Keep in mind this is for all the people who are involved even the patrons.

To address the decline of reggae and dancehall events, it’s essential to create more mediums and outlets for local artists to showcase their talents. This can be achieved by promoting and supporting events that celebrate Jamaican culture, such as festivals, concerts, and sound system nights. Reviving sound system culture and incorporating it into modern events can also help to recreate the vibrant atmosphere that once defined Jamaica’s music scene. By showcasing local talent and promoting events as part of Jamaica’s tourism product, stakeholders can work together to reinvigorate the music ecosystem and promote the island’s rich cultural heritage to the world.

– Create more mediums and outlets for reggae and dancehall music
– Revive sound system culture and its role in events
– Showcase local talent and promote events as part of Jamaica’s tourism product
– Develop a chain of events that allow artisans to grow and promote the culture

Familiarity and consistency has always the been the way forward. The culture has always offered us so much opportunities to become productive patriots. We need to reexamine how we see Jamaican culture and music.