Freddie McGregor recalls meeting DJ Vybz Kartel at Boston's Logan Airport last year and their discussion was largely based on McGregor bringing his Rocksteady Meets Reggae show to Jamaica. Only difference was, Kartel wanted it to have a dancehall twist. He will get his wish, as on Saturday, May 23, McGregor presents Rocksteady meets Reggae and Dancehall at Jamalco Sports Club in Halse Hall, Clarendon.

Having recorded in all three genres, it's only natural that McGregor jumped at the idea of staging an event covering the gamut of Jamaican music. That it is being staged in his home parish, the singer says, is a bonus.

special event

"That's special to me because I'm from Hayes, and truly, Clarendon could use a lift. We are looking at this to become a Clarendon homecoming of sorts," McGregor said. A who's who of acts is scheduled to perform at the show. They include Leroy Sibbles, former lead singer of the Heptones; John Holt, Dean Fraser, Beres Hammond, Wayne Marshall, Captain Barkey and Wickerman and, of course, Freddie himself.

It won't be all music. The day's activities start at 9 a.m. at the same venue with a 20-over-a-side cricket match in which fans will get to see their favourite artistes donning their whites against some established 'pros' including former West Indies captains Courtney Walsh and Brian Lara, and legendary fast bowler, Curtly Ambrose. The day will also see spectacular domino skills on display in that tournament.

Milton Brown, mayor of May Pen, says the event will be beneficial to Clarendon, a parish which has produced several big reggae and dancehall acts including Toots Hibbert, Denroy Morgan, Cocoa Tea, Jahmali and Merciless.

"This is an opportunity to bring persons of all ages to the parish," Mayor Brown said. "For me, it's an historical event that can become another (Reggae) Sumfest." Organisers say the Hayes Primary and Junior High schools, as well as local football teams, will benefit from proceeds of the event.

classic reggae albums

Freddie McGregor is best known for classic reggae albums like Bobby Babylon and Big Ship which were recorded during the 1970s and 1980s, respectively. He began his career as a teenager at the hallowed Studio One with his mentor being none other than legendary producer Clement 'Sir Coxsone' Dodd. In recent years, Freddie has made the successful transition to show promoter. His Rocksteady meets Reggae show has been a hit with fans in Florida and the US Virgin Islands.

Courtney Walsh

Wayne Marshall

Cocoa Tea

Toots Hibbert