International Reggae Day 2023 Celebrates the Global Influence of 80s and 90s Dancehall

- Contributed

International Reggae Day (IRD), the annual global celebration of Jamaican music culture, is gearing up for an exciting event this year. 

Set to take place on July 1st, IRD2023 will focus on the theme "From Brukins to Dancehall: The Global Influence of 80s and 90s Dancehall," shining a spotlight on the pivotal era that has helped shape Jamaican music and its impact on global culture.

IRD is a 24-hour hybrid global media festival, featuring events held locally, internationally, and online and offers a simultaneous program of media specials, live events, and virtual experiences that embrace the theme of IRD2023 and the influence of Jamaica's musical and cultural heritage. 

Media partners from Jamaica and around the world are encouraged to highlight the music and legends of the genre while emphasizing the global impact of Jamaican music culture.

Andrea M. Davis, the Founder and Producer of IRD, expressed her enthusiasm for this year's theme, stating, "We are thrilled to delve into the influential era of 80s and 90s Dancehall. This year's celebration allows us to honor the artists, producers, sound systems, and cultural contributors who played a crucial role in shaping the Dancehall genre and making it an integral part of Jamaican and global culture."

The impact of 80s and 90s Dancehall cannot be overstated when considering the contributions, collaborations, and careers of iconic artists like Yellowman, Shabba Ranks, Patra, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Buju Banton, Baby Cham, Lady Saw, and Sean Paul, among many others who achieved tremendous success worldwide.

Cities from Kingston to Nassau, New York to London, Johannesburg to Salvador have confirmed their participation in IRD 2023, with more details on local and international events to be announced.

Music lovers worldwide are invited to join the celebration on July 1st in various ways. They can wear their Reggae colors, play Jamaican music, attend an IRD event, tune into the media specials, and participate in the "Plant a Tree for IRD" initiative. 

The hashtags #IRD2023, #ThisIsMyReggae, and #80s90sDancehall can be used to connect online and share in the celebration of the power of Jamaican music to unite, uplift, and inspire.

Media houses, venues and promoters interested in hosting program specials, panels, strategic interviews or virtual events can contact IRD via email at ireggaeday@gmail.com. 

Similarly, venues or promoters interested in hosting a live or virtual event for International Reggae Day are encouraged to reach out for more information.