The Montreal International Reggae Festival (MIRF) is returning for it’s 9th year, this time to celebrate Jamaicas 50 years of independence with some of the leading and most prolific ambassadors in the history of Reggae.
Continually embracing the motto United Against Violence and with an unrelenting determination to unite nations through music, MIRF has designed 3 days of stellar programming this summer. Included in the roster of confirmed reggae and dancehall artists are internationally acclaimed Montreal DJ Poirier; dancehall stars Konshens, Khago, Assasin and Christopher Martin; as well as the ever triumphant Cham who makes a return in 2012. Tarrus Riley, one of the newest international stars in Reggae is also on the bill along with Luciano, The Reggae Messenger who returns to North America after a five year hiatus.
To celebrate Jamaicas jubilee of independence in splendor, it is fitting that the unique and multi-talented, Honorable Jimmy Cliff (O.M) will headline this years festival. Immortalized by the character Ivanhoe Martin in the 1972 Perry Henzell classic film, The harder They Come and its hit list soundtrack that included, You Can Get It If You Really Want, Many Rivers To Cross, Sitting In Limbo and the unforgettable title track, The Harder They Come, Jimmy Cliff also started his musical career in 1962, the year of Jamaicas independence.
The song Miss Jamaica, was one of Jimmy Cliffs earliest hits, composed in recognition of Jamaicas August 6, 1962 independence; and for 50 years since then it has remained closely linked to the lowering of the British flag and presentation of Jamaicas new colors black green and gold. Jimmy Cliff, whose real name is James Chambers, is currently the only living artist to hold the Order of Merit, the highest honor granted by the government of Jamaica for achievement in the arts and sciences. His reggae music hits include Many Rivers to Cross, You Can Get It If You Really Want, Wonderful World, Beautiful People and Vietnam. He also played a critical role in the film The Harder They Come. Cliff will perform in the Sunday, August 19, closing lineup.
The festival website promises more artists will be announced soon.
The Montreal International Reggae Festival runs from Aug. 17 to 19 at the Quays of the Old Port of Montreal, Quebec. Tickets are $10 at the door on Friday, $45 advance / $60 at the door for Saturday and Sunday. Weekend passes are $90 in advance, $120 at the door. There is also a $250 VIP pass option. More ticket info is available at their website.
Related posts:
