Rebel Salute is undeniably a masterpiece! What began as a show to commemorate the January 15 birthday of reggae icon Patrick “Tony Rebel” Barrett has become a staple on the live music events calendar. Every year since its first staging in 1994 in Brooks Park, Mandeville, Tony Rebel and Flames Production Inc. has delivered a world-class roots show unlike any other while promoting and preserving the healthier aspects of reggae music.
The show has since then been moved to its new home at the Port Kaiser Sports Complex and is set against the backdrop of the unspoiled beauty of the parish that is known as the “bread basket” of Jamaica – St. Elizabeth. This year’s line up includes Queen Ifrica, Gramps Morgan, Tarrus Riley, Luciano, Maxi Priest, Capleton, Romain Virgo and many more! Of course, di big man Tony Rebel will also be taking the stage.
Rebel Salute treats patrons to a drug-free, violence-free, alcohol-free and meat-free, family-oriented environment. Food vendors serve a strict Jamaican vegetarian menu, which is complimented by a diet of cultural roots rap from reggae’s finest. One can truly immerse themselves in Jamaican culture here as authentic Jamaican arts and crafts are also on display and for sale.
Rebel Salute has captured the adoration of roots reggae lovers worldwide, magnetically pulling thousands of people to areas of Jamaica’s South Coast not traditionally famous for live music festivals. Combined with the warm hospitality and abundant culture of the Jamaican people, this event is not one to be missed. Hailed today as a spiritual renaissance, it has become the bedrock for the exposure and celebration of Jamaican roots music. As the first cultural event for the New Year, the showcase has become a very proud process of reclaiming the moral high ground once occupied by Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and others. Nothing can be more symbolic of Jamaica’s cultural legacy than a resounding clash between the heart and the mind: “when the music hits, you feel no pain”.
Objectives of Rebel Salute 2012:
- To showcase authentic Jamaican culture through music, art, fashion and food.
- To promote cultural exchange between Jamaica and the African Diaspora.
- To promote community tourism and encourage social and environmental responsibility.
- To partner with cultural groups/organizations, corporations and government, forging lasting alliances that will preserve and promote authentic Jamaican culture both locally and internationally.
- To provide a platform for artists to champion their causes.
- To expose “Saluters” to an event experience where profanity is prohibited, healthy eating is supported and a family vibe is encouraged and highlighted
