King of the Dancehall Beenie Man joins Shaggy, Mr. Vegas, Morgan Heritage, Freddie McGregor and More at the 10th Annual Montreal International Reggae Festival!
For ten years The Montreal International Reggae Festival (MIRF) has been the biggest consistent offering of reggae culture in Canada; and in full celebratory mode MIRF has enhanced its programming to include workshops that will run on August 14, 15 and 16. The traditional three days of music ensue on August 16, 17 and 18 at the Old Port of Montreal.
In rounding out the complete roster of headlining artists for this 10th anniversary, Friday night will also feature: Chris Combette, Inword and Downtown Crew. Originally from French Guyana, Chris Combette is famous for his rhythmic Antillien-African style. The multiple award winner boasts 2 French Guyanese Lindor awards and his most notable albums are, Dance Flora and Children of Goree. These artists will join Morgan Heritage, who was previously announced.
Labeled ‘King of the Dancehall’ Beenie Man augments the Saturday night line-up with his MIRF debut performance. Largely responsible for the international ascension of the dancehall genre, Beenie Man has been winner of 8 consecutive awards. His Grammy nominated album, Many Moods of Moses includes the globally applauded single, Who Am I. Currently one of Jamaica’s most celebrated female dancehall artists, Tifa is also slated to heat up the dancehall stage. The captivating performer has an impressive repertoire of chart topping hits including the street anthem Spell It Out. Hawkeye and Canadian based Ras Out and Dahlia will also join the previously publicized Dancehall Night headliners: Kes (The Band), Mr. Vegas and Shaggy.
Alaine will be a part of the stellar roster for MIRF’s closing night. The classically trained singer/songwriter made her mark in the reggae music industry with numerous hits including the single Love Sound, collaboration with Beres Hammond that was featured on Sly and Robbie’s Grammy nominated Rhythm Doubles album. Montreal’s highly acclaimed, Jah Cutta, along with Visionary, Prestige and Bryan Art will also grace Sunday’s stage with the previously released artists: Coco Tea; Freddie McGregor and Yellowman.
Montreal’s Pharaoh Freeman and Hidden Colors will facilitate a workshop, focusing on the theme “Empowering Our People” The value of a powerful self-image.
They join the earlier revealed musicologist, Roger Steffens and filmmaker, Hélène Lee who will engage participants in interactive presentations on “The Reggae World: Spreading Out” and the movie “Le Premier Rasta” respectively.
