British High Commissioner to Jamaica Disappointed About the Lack of Reggae Events on the Island

The British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Asif Ahmad is concerned about the lack of live Reggae events in Jamaica.

He has even expressed his disappointment about the absence of live Reggae events around the island.

Ahmad believes, there are simply not enough live events in Jamaica, especially in Kingston, which is the birthplace of the music.

“It’s very rare that you hear live Reggae music. Yes, there are Reggae festivals and for tourists in the big hotels… but the essence of creation of the music, the lyrics, the poetry, the rhythm that goes with that music, all of this has to be revived and cherished again,” he said in a sad way.

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“People are talking about Port Royal developing, but why don’t we have music cafés? People are talking about food and other places of entertainment, but why can’t we have squares, food courts with a platform where musicians can perform?” he proposed.

They say, there are simply not enough spaces for entertainment in Kingston to encourage any growth in the dancehall music industry, as Reggae music could be promoted more so its earning potential could be capitalized on more. 

Kingston was declared a Creative City of Music by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in 2015

Musicians are still saying they still find it difficult to find spaces for musical events. They say the five essential elements of establishing a Creative City of Music is lacking.