This summer, to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Jamaican Independence, The O2 and its multiple venues including indigO2, will be transformed into a Caribbean oasis as over 50 artists take to the stage as part of Respect Jamaica 50.
The two week extravaganza, from July 25 to August 6, will include a multitude of legendary Jamaican singers, DJs, writers, comedians, actors and poets from Damian Marley and Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry to Shaggy and Jimmy Cliff showcasing the cultural depth and diversity of this esteemed nation.
Supported by the Jamaican Government, Respect Jamaica 50 will add a sprinkling of Caribbean flavour to what’s set to be a great summer for Jamaica!
Among the dozens of musicians flying in to the capital is triple Grammy award-winning reggae artist Damian Marley, the youngest son of Bob Marley. He will be delivering his trademark blend of dancehall and reggae with hits like “Welcome to Jamrock” and “As We Enter” to thousands of fans.
Joining them on the bill will be Junior Murvin, whose 1976 song “Police and Thieves” cemented his place in reggae history, becoming an international hit covered by artists such as The Clash and Culture Club.
Another celebrated reggae artist to join the festival is dub veteran Lee “Scratch” Perry who has worked with the likes of Bob Marley & The Wailers, the Beastie Boys and Animal Collective. With over half a century of music under his belt, Perry is considered one of the godfathers of the scene. Joining him on the bill is Jimmy Cliff who will be wowing the crowds with breakout hits like “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and “Sitting in Limbo”.
For those in search of something lighthearted, some of the finest contenders in Jamaican comedy will be providing the laughs for the crowds at Proud2 July 27 – August 6.
Other outstanding cultural events at Respect Jamaica 50 include Messenger: The Bob Marley Exhibition at the BME July 24 – October 22. Visitors will be invited to explore a retrospective featuring personal memorabilia, candid photographs, old concert posters, records, music clips and archive video footage.
Other artists confirmed on the roster include: Shaggy, Tappa Zukie, Jamaican Legends Band, Mutabaruka, John Holt, Freddie McGregor, Tarrus Riley, Toots & The Maytals, Young Toots, Horace Andy, Morgan Heritage, Raging Fyah, Yellowman, Dennis Alcapone, Benjamin Zephaniah, U-Roy, The Abyssinians, Winston Reedy, Mad Professor, Mighty Diamonds, Leroy ‘Heptones’ Sibbles, Marcia Griffiths, Maxi Priest, Gyptian, Johnny Clarke, Derrick Morgan, Max Romeo, Jah9, Sir Lloyd Coxsone, Michael Prophet, Gaylads, Bob Andy, Fatman Hi Fi and Jah Shaka Sound System.
For more information please visit: http://www.respectjamaica50.co.uk/
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