Hurricane Beryl cannot stop Reggae Sumfest - Festival on and popping — Bogdanovich

Days after Hurricane Beryl caused havoc in some parts of Jamaica, Reggae Sumfest boss Joe Bogdanovich says he is thankful that Jamaica was spared the wrath of the storm and emphasised that plans for this year's music festival are moving full steam ahead.

"I thank God that Beryl did not live up to the destruction of Gilbert back in 1988," Bogdanovich told THE STAR.

"No structural damage was reported in Montego Bay and things are getting back to normal. The festival is on and popping. I am encouraging folks, particularly those in Jamaican diaspora cities like New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Atlanta, Florida, California, Toronto and North Carolina, who have been big supporters of the festival, to purchase tickets before they run out, because the early indicators are that 2024 will be the bigger and possibly the best one ever," he said by phone from Montego Bay.

He explained that Hurricane Beryl did not impact the preparation of the grounds nor the planning for Reggae Sumfest in any way.

"We are paying much more attention to the five pre-events now because all are different, entertaining, and add a fest spirit to the festival like never before. So buckle up and prepare for the ride. It will be one to remember," he said.

Bogdanovich said that given the increasing popularity of the Global Sound Clash, it has been strategically relocated to a larger venue, ensuring more convenient parking and amenities for patrons to fully enjoy the experience. The date was also moved to Wednesday to make space for something new.

"We have reinvigorated the Appleton Estates Rum Festival for Thursday along with the Sumfest Blitz, which, in effect, will be two events for one price. These two events should be very festive and will offer patrons an unparalleled experience, with Beenie Man as Moses Davis playing with a specially built big stage that can hold an entire orchestra," he shared.

Asked about Global Sound Clash champion Dynamq, the Reggae Sumfest 2023 champion from Africa who will return to defend his title against competitors, including a female DJ from Japan, Bogdanovich said, "He (Dynamq) is extremely popular with patrons. He is different, talented and entertaining and knows the history of a song before playing it. Jamaicans love that about him."

Regarding the two concert nights, Bogdanovich noted that "the line-up is excellent and the production will knock ya out".

Reggae Sumfest 2024 takes place in Montego Bay on July 14-20. Performers include Beres Hammond, Babyface, Capleton, Dexta Daps, 450, Valiant, Teejay, Nigy Boy, YG Marley, Sevana, Luciano, and more.