On June 23, 2025, dancehall icon Beenie Man took over NPR’s Tiny Desk stage for a celebration of Black Music Month—and the 25th anniversary of his Grammy-winning album Art and Life. Performing alongside the vibrant Ruff Kut Band, he delivered a powerful set that reminded fans why he’s known as the “King of the Dancehall.”
A Setlist Packed with Hits
The intimate performance featured fan favorites and chart-toppers:
- “Who Am I”
- “Romie”
- “Girls Dem Sugar”
- “Toy Friend”
- “Miss L.A.P.”
- “Let Him Go”
- “Dude”
- “King of the Dancehall”
- “Rum & RedBull
With Nigel Staff (keys/music director), Brinton Haughton Jr. (keys), Paul Green (guitar), Donovan Belnavis (bass), Ricardo Davis (drums), and backup vocalists Ovasha and Ke Star, it was a full-bodied live experience that showcased precise musicianship and Beenie’s commanding presence.
A Homecoming Moment
This performance wasn’t just about musical legacy—it marked a triumphant return. Beenie celebrated the reinstatement of his U.S. work visa after a 10-year ban, making this NPR appearance even more meaningful. He expressed deep gratitude, calling Tiny Desk “a space where real music shines” and “ready fi represent”.
Legacy Honors
Coinciding with his album Art and Life turning 25, the appearance aligns with NPR’s theme of spotlighting milestone albums by influential Black artists during Black Music Month. But did NPR realize June is also Caribbean American Heritage Month!
Why It Matters
- Energized Performance – The Tiny Desk format brought a raw and personal feel, stripping away studio gloss to let Beenie’s natural charisma and vocal power take the spotlight.
- Historical Context – Beyond the tracks, there’s the story: a veteran artist, overcoming past hurdles (visa ban), celebrating longevity and musical influence.
- Cultural Representation – His set continues a proud lineage of Jamaican representation at NPR, following the footsteps of Sean Paul, Koffee, Damian Marley, Chronixx, and others.
Why You Should Watch
If you’ve been touched by dancehall from the Addy years or are discovering it now, this Tiny Desk set serves as both a vibrant introduction and a reminder of Beenie Man’s lasting impact—from early beginnings to international acclaim. It’s intimate, electric, and rooted in decades of groove.
Honoring the Legacy
From the rhythmic punch of “Who Am I” to the smooth grooves of “Girls Dem Sugar,” the performance spans his career and capsulizes why his music has such cross-generational appeal. Plus, it’s a full-circle moment following his visa reinstatement and album anniversary.
