Reggae took center stage at CARIFESTA XV on Friday night, delivering a concert that kept the Village alive with music, dance, and cultural pride until the early hours of Saturday morning.
From the start, the atmosphere was electric. Rastafarian flags waved high above the crowd, with national colours from Guyana, Barbados, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia on full display. Patrons sang along, danced freely, and embraced the rhythm that reggae brings to the Caribbean.
The show opened with a string of local and regional acts including Casheda Dottin, Mista Dale, Simon Pipe, Rhesa Garnes, and Buggy, supported by Rite Side Of Red as performers and host. Their sets built momentum, warming up the stage before Warrior King of Jamaica took over with his signature brand of conscious reggae.
The evening’s energy grew with performances from Samuel Medas, Dejour, and The Revealers Band, followed by Jesse Royal whose fiery delivery had the audience on their feet. Tanya Stephens then added her unmistakable voice and storytelling style. The “These Streets” is known for her commanding the stage with sharp wit and crowd engagement.
The highlight of the night came with Morgan Heritage. Performing for the first time at CARIFESTA XV since the passing of lead singer Petaah Morgan last year, the band’s set carried both emotional weight and celebration. Jemere Morgan, son of Gramps Morgan, has stepped into the role of lead vocalist. His powerful delivery paid tribute to Peter’s legacy while asserting his own presence, earning thunderous applause from the audience.
For many, it was the emotional heart of the concert. “I could feel Peter right dey so in the music,” said one patron, holding a Guyanese flag. “Jamiri voice strong. He carry on the legacy good.” A Bajan patron described the night as “pure vibes,” adding, “That is the beauty of reggae. No matter where you come from, the rhythm brings us together like family.”
Though the concert began later than scheduled, the event was well executed. A fully stocked VIP and backstage section kept performers and guests comfortable, while vendors ensured that food and drinks flowed throughout the evening, right up until the end.
By the time the concert closed at about 2:30 a.m., the CARIFESTA had experienced one of its most memorable nights yet. The Reggae Super Concert was not only a showcase of musical talent, but also a reminder of reggae’s role in uniting the region through shared rhythms, stories, and cultural pride.
For this reporter, it was one of those rare events where time did not seem to matter. The music carried us all.
