Kingston, February 20, 2024 – Jamaican reggae artistes have been urged to expand their artistic perspectives and connect with the lively reggae atmosphere in Latin America. This call emerged from a Reggae Month symposium co-hosted by Honourable Olivia Grange, OJ, CD, MP, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, alongside His Excellency Ambassador Juan José González Mijares from the Embassy of the United Mexican States, held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at the Ministry of Culture’s Roof Terrace.
Held under the theme 'Growth and Impact of Reggae Music in Latin America', the symposium featured several distinguished panellists including: Guillermo Mejia, Founder of Cultiva Reggae A.C. Organization in Mexico; Ignacio Ortiz, Empresario, Reggae Events Promoter, Jah Fabio, a prominent Mexican Reggae Artiste; Anthony “Papa Michigan” Fairclough, a Jamaican Reggae Artiste; and César Hank, a Mexican Musician and Producer. Their collective insights shed light on the significant opportunities awaiting Jamaican reggae artists in Latin America.
Drawing from his personal experiences performing in Mexico, Papa Michigan underscored the importance for Jamaican musicians to acknowledge the untapped potential in the Latin American market. For his part, Jah Fabio praised the symposium's initiative and emphasized Mexico's vast population as a critical factor in enhancing reggae artists' chances for success on platforms like Spotify
Minister Olivia Grange echoed the sentiments of Michigan and Jah Fabio, urging Jamaican reggae artistes to seize the opportunity to expand their reach and influence by tapping into the vibrant Latin American market. She emphasized the need for strategic partnerships and collaborations to facilitate entry into this rapidly growing segment of the global reggae industry.
With Latin America's rich cultural heritage and deep appreciation for reggae music, the symposium served as a catalyst for dialogue and action, inspiring Jamaican artistes to explore new avenues for international success.
The next Reggae Month Symposium is scheduled for Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at the Ministry of Culture’s Roof Terrace, located at 4-6 Trafalgar Road, Kingston 5, starting at 10:00 a.m. The session will focus on the Schengen Visa Regime, featuring speakers from the Spanish Embassy’s Visa and Immigration Unit.
It will broadcast live on the Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica (PBCJ) and JAMVISION. Additionally, the event will be streamed on the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport's Facebook page, as well as the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) YouTube page.
