Reggae Sumfest 2011 launched

Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

It was a high-energy launch for Reggae Sumfest on Wednesday night at Devon House.

Ready for the 19th staging of the 'greatest reggae festival on Earth', Sumfest was pleased with early performances at its launch, which gave those in attendance an idea of what to expect. Performances came from the likes of Tifa, who did a rendition of Bob Marley's I Wanna Love You in recognition of Digicel's theme 'Inspired by Legends'. The young diva then went on to Move Yuh Body and her verse from Swaggin' (WTF!) before making way for I-Octane.

I-Octane got a huge response from the audience as he performed popular songs. He also gave a taste of things to come, doing a song from his upcoming album Crying For the Nation.

Before I-Octane, Konshens remained true to his image with songs like Represent and Talk Bout Me. Denyque sang Hooked On Me, and newcomer Iba Mahr started off the show with cultural songs.

The launch was an extravagant affair as persons mingled and enjoyed themselves to the music being played before the actual proceedings began. Scenes of R. Kelly and Nicki Minaj performing overseas delighted those eager to see the R&B and rap star perform.

Pepsi's Carlo Redwood spoke about how proud the brand was to be involved with Reggae Sumfest.

diamond sponsor

Iberostar commented that it was the first hotel to be a diamond sponsor of the festival while Red Stripe's Safia Cooper discussed the energy the brand would be giving to Sumfest this year.

Executive Director of Summerfest Productions, organisers of Reggae Sumfest, Johnny Gourzong, showed a video looking back at last year's successful staging and showing persons what to expect this year.

Gourzong said the organisers were honoured to be paying tribute to the likes of Beres Hammond, who first performed at Sumfest in 1994. Also being honoured are Gregory Isaacs and ET Webster.

Digicel brought out dancers to spice up its segment. The dances gave patrons a history lesson, reminiscing on the styles of the past and ending with the most recent.

Sumfest takes place from July 17-23 in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay.