Reggae 4 Japan

By Gail Zucker on Wednesday, June 15, 2011 - Photos by Gail Zucker - Comment

Reggae 4 Japan proceeds donated to Earthquake/Tsunami victims.

York College Auditorium in Queens New York was overflowing its capacity of 1300 Sunday evening, June 5, 2011.

The event to aid Japan's Earthquake victims was a huge success in terms of aid to Japan and entertainment to all who attended.

Reggae 4 Japan Each artist that performed mentioned a few words about how huge Reggae was in Japan and how the Japanese people embraced Reggae music. They said that Japan has done so much for reggae! Mighty Crown, top Japanese dancehall sound system co-organized the event along with Irish & Chin & VP Records.

Alaine & Dutch reggae singer Ziggi Ricado both gave excellent performances. New Kingston started the show and backed Ziggi with positive energy. Chino & Stephen McGregor excited the audience with sister Shema singing backup vocals. Freddie's children are really making a name for themselves in the industry!

Japanese dancehall group Fireball captured the stage in ¾ length cut off pants and sneekers. The crowd responded to them and sang along to Jimmy Cliff's tune You Can Get It If You Really Want.

Duane Stephenson did a cool set featuring Dean Fraser on Sax. Tanya Stephens crooned out her hits. Gramps and Peetah Morgan did some wicked harmonizing. Mr Vegas entered the stage trashed and ready, complete with suit, dress shirt, tie, and sunglasses.

Maxi Priest did his thing, joined onstage by Red Fox and then Beniton the Menace joined him onstage to sing Shabba's part in Housecall.

Freddie McGregor decked out in red did a great set and the audience joined in singing his many hits. Tarrus Riley was well received and Dean Fraser appeared to be enjoying himself and having a wonderful evening.

Capleton took the stage dressed in red from head to toe. He was doing his set when an announcement was made that Shabba Ranks was in the house. Shabba took the stage with Capleton was still there. They shook hands and Shabba did quite a set, both artists blazing the stage lyrically.

Nuff props to Ruff Kut Band who backed the whole show with stamina and vigor!

Finally, Damian Marley's energy ignited the auditorium! Then, looking dapper in a white blazer and white hat, NAS joined Damian onstage and the crowd went wild when they started singing Promised Land.

Chin of the team Irish & Chin came onstage at the end of the show giving thanx to all who made this show possible. Once again, history in the making for Reggae music!