Miami's 18 Annual 9 Mile Music Festival, A Huge Success!

By Gail Zucker on Tuesday, April 12, 2011 - Photos by Gail Zucker - 1 comment

"Sun is shining, weather is sweet, makes you want to move your dancing feet."

Bob Marley was certainly smiling with the 2011 9 Mile Festival, March 12, 2011. It was a perfect Miami day at the Bayfront Ampitheater and the 7,000 plus attendees enjoyed themselves immensely! There were many craft and food vendors so when the munchies hit, patrons could pick and choose from the wide variety of foods available. I tried a stir fry soba noodle dish with lots of spinach and peanut sauce which was yummy!

The festival began with Miami’s own Fourth Dimension and Benjah and Dillavou out of Orlando. The long time Marley Festival, Zen Fest and Ultra Fest performer Kevens then took the stage. He looked quite dapper in a long blue military coat and delivered an entertaining set.

Inner Circle entered and gave a lively performance. Junior Jazz, the lead singer really adds some spice to the group. He sang a Jacob Miller medley as well as Gregory Issac’s tune, “Night Nurse.”

Ky-mani Marley heated up the stage. He performed an awesome version of his dads tune “Redemption Song.” Protoje entered and they did their duet, boom hit “Rasta Love.” Protoje is a talented young artist with a promising future amongst producer extraordinaire Don Corleon. Ky-mani’s fans really apprecilove the way he takes the time to chat and pose for pictures with everyone of them!

Major Lazer was on next. Perhaps he has a larger audience appreciation at Ultra Fest.

Thievery Corporation was an interesting blend of musical styles from around the world. Various artists showcased their expertise but the highlight of the performance was the sitar player. Don Carlos came out for a cameo appearance.

The younger audience seemed to really enjoy California based band Slightly Stooped.

Ah at last, the Marley’s took the stage…a loud roar rang out through the Park. The moment has finally arrived! Damian, Stephen, and Julian all came onstage together, their energy was electrifying! They performed Bob’s hits including “Three Little Birds”, “Jamming”, “War” & “Get Up Stand Up”. Gramps Morgan joined them onstage as well as reggae legend Alton Ellis son Christopher. He sang Alton’s tune, “Willow Tree.”

Bunny Rugs and Cat Coore, members of Third World joined the Marley’s onstage and sang “96 Degrees in the Shade.” The talented and versatile Cat Coore played both guitar and cello rifs. Pressure was also a guest artist and participated singing songs “For Love & Affection” and “Traffic Jam” along with some of the Marley children making their stage debut for the first time.

Stephen and Damian sang “Jah Army” and “The Mission”, and the audience was thrilled. For the grand finale, everyone onstage and the audience joined in to sing “Could You be Loved”.