top of page
Writer's pictureRomaine Brown

YG Marley, Lauryn Hill, and Aidonia Steal the Show at Reggae Sumfest Night One

YG Marley and Lauryn Hill lit up Reggae Sumfest 2024, Aidonia delivered an emotional tribute, Teejay, Armanii, and Capleton also impressed


Aidonia, gives emotional moments (Photo: Reggae Sumfest)


Night one of Reggae Sumfest 2024 delivered an unforgettable experience, complete with top-notch production, captivating performances, and emotional moments.


It was a night for young talents to make their debut and for veterans to shine, creating moments that felt like dreams come true. This event is undoubtedly the cutting edge of the Jamaican music industry.


Armanii, delivered an incredible debut (Photo: Reggae Sumfest)


Earlier in the night, the stage was given to artists such as Kaka Highflames, who brought the Flames dancers with him to deliver an energetic set, promising a bright future ahead. Uprising artist Soun Bwoii performed his viral single 'Pump Up,' and other first-timers like 'Chakka' singer J’Quan and Ayetian made their debuts in the spotlight.


One of dancehall’s new favorites, Armanii, made his Sumfest debut with a solid set. Dressed in a Michael Jackson-inspired all-red outfit, he performed his catalog, including singles like "Dunce Barbie," and his summer jam "HAAD (Fiesta)."



Moving to one of the standout moments of the night, rising reggae star YG Marley delivered an electrifying set featuring his single "Survivor." He was joined on stage by Zion Marley and dancehall artist Jahshii, who performed his hit song "Born Fighter."


Veteran deejay, Gangster Ras Munga Honorable performed his hits such as "Bad From Mi Born" and "Nuh Mad'.


The crowd went wild when YG Marley brought up his mother, musical legend Lauryn Hill, for a surprise 15-minute guest performance. The place was electrified with a medley of Hill's hits, from "Ex-Factor" to "Ready or Not," "Killing Me Softly," and "Fu-Gee-La." Fans couldn't get enough of the singer, and she couldn't get enough of the audience.



Dancehall new-gen artists Pablo YG and 450 got a chance to shine with their 15-minute sets for the second year in a row, delivering their hit singles to an eager audience. Malie Donn, who last year appeared as a surprise guest during Teejay's set, earned his own slot this year. He performed his hit singles "V6" and "Dungeon" and welcomed Javo Donn to sing his viral single "Wuff Wuff" on the same riddim as Squash's summer banger "Big Breeze," with both artists hailing Squash.


The '1V' deejay Aidonia was one of the headliners of the night, delivering an exciting and precise set with his many hits over the years, alongside emotional moments. He performed a range of songs including "Trigger Work It," "Banga," "Aircraft," and "Yeah Yeah," among many others. A particularly emotional moment was when he sang "Badman Salute," dedicating it to some of his close friends and his late son, King Khalif.



Aidonia also brought his longtime friend and dancehall star, Govana, to the stage. Govana performed some of his hit singles, including "Four Stories" and "Champ."


Mobay's own Teejay had a solid 30-minute set, performing hits from his catalog such as "Owna Lane," "Day One," "Rags to Riches," and the hit song "Drift," accompanied by a dance crew including Gabbidon. He also welcomed his son Jaydon and fellow dancehall artist Quada to perform the single "Star" from the "I Am Chippy" EP. The Uptop Boss didn't miss the opportunity to throw shots at dancehall artist Valiant and producer DJ Mac, adding fuel to their ongoing beef.



After a fiery set by veteran reggae artist Turbulence, the fireman Capleton took the stage and ignited the morning light with his electrifying performance. He was honored with the Red Stripe Lifetime Award during his set, adding to the night's excitement.


Although fan favorites Valiant, Jada Kingdom, and Kraff didn't get to perform due to apparent ego issues backstage, the first night still delivered an unforgettable experience with its own unique highlights.

Commentaires


bottom of page