Rodigan Returns
His clashes with local radio jock Barry G and sound system selectors in the 1980s were legendary. Come November, Dubwise Jamaica a local entertainment outfit and cannabis dispensary Kaya Herb House, are joining forces to relive some of these moments with British broadcaster, reggae music historian and selector David Rodigan.
The three-night event kicks off on November 7 at Kaya’s Falmouth location, the following night it moves to Kaya Herb House in Drax Hall, St Ann, and culminates in the Corporate Area with a session at their new Lady Musgrave Road location.
According to Jason Panton, creative director at Dubwise Jamaica, this event will give Jamaicans an opportunity to see Rodigan, who is a master at his craft, operating in his element.
“We wanted to do something different at Dubwise. The last time we brought Rodigan here, it was more of a teaching experience. This time we want to bring more of a session vibe. Through the partnership with Kaya Herb House we have been able to spread our wings and offer more Jamaicans the opportunity to see Rodigan and that’s the reason behind the little island tour which will see us making stops in Falmouth, St Ann and Kingston.”
“The truth is masters of their craft like Rodigan will not always be around and are not always available to travel due to various commitments all over the world. So after his last performance here, his team reached out to us saying there is a window of opportunity at this time of the year if we are interested. The last time was so epic and we just jumped at it. The moon and the stars really aligned on this one. It is such a blessing to see him at the top of his game, doing something that he is so passionate about,” said Panton.
Rodigan will be joined by Rory Stone Love, whom Panton describes as Jamaica’s first rock star selector, having made a name for himself with his manner of delivery which is still being emulated and copied by modern-day selectors. They will also be joined by popular sound Renaissance with its two popular jocks Delano and Jazzy T.
“The last time was really that feel good history class. This year we are going for a slightly different complexion for the event. It will be much more musical, more juggling. Patrons can expect to be taken on a journey through the early sounds of reggae, rockers, rocksteady in dubplate style. When you consider the line-up, it will be six hours of great music and entertainment. This staging of Dubwise is a musical journey, but most importantly a place to dance and enjoy the greatest sounds of our own authentic reggae and dancehall music,” said Panton.
Dubwise is now a global pop-up event with stagings in New York, Miami, California and Trinidad and more. Ahead of the Jamaican shows. Dubwise will be held in Miami on November 6.