Staff Writer
What Is the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert?
In the wake of the devastating Hurricane Melissa, which battered Jamaica as a Category 5 storm, the music community and diaspora have united for a cause greater than any single performance. The Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert, set for December 12, 2025, at New York’s UBS Arena, will feature an all-star lineup of reggae and dancehall legends — all to raise funds for hurricane relief.
This isn’t just a show: organizers describe it as a movement to rebuild homes, schools, and livelihoods across the hardest-hit parishes in Jamaica, with proceeds going directly to the Government of Jamaica’s official Hurricane Relief Fund.
Why This Concert Matters
Hurricane Melissa left a trail of destruction — collapsed buildings, power outages, and communities cut off. In response, Jamaica Strong NY, Inc., Irie Jam Foundation, Jammins Entertainment, and RoadBlock Radio came together to launch the concert as part of the “I Love Jamaica” Concert Series, officially endorsed by Jamaica’s Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment & Sport.
Shaggy, the Grammy-winning reggae superstar, later described the concert as more than music — as a “heartbeat of a Jamaica that will rise again.” His foundation, Make A Difference, is directly involved in the effort.
A Star-Studded Lineup for Hope
The Jamaica Strong lineup reads like a who’s who of Jamaican music:
- Shaggy – headliner and humanitarian
- Sean Paul, whose foundation is matching donations up to $50,000 through Food For The Poor Jamaica.
- Kes The Band, T.O.K., Inner Circle, Ky-Mani Marley, Gramps Morgan, Aidonia, Chronic Law, Richie Stephens, Mikey Spice, Teejay, Tessanne Chin, and more.
According to Reggaeville, it’s not just a concert — it’s “a lifeline for families fighting to rebuild.”
How Funds Will Be Used & Managed
All proceeds from ticket sales and donations are committed to transparency and impact. According to organizers, funds will support:
- Rebuilding homes, schools, and community centers in Jamaica’s hardest-hit regions
- Supporting the Government of Jamaica’s Disaster Relief Fund with strict accountability measures in place.
- Contributing to the Make A Difference Foundation, founded by Shaggy, which already has boots on the ground delivering critical aid.
Beyond the concert, diaspora-led efforts are also making tangible impact. For instance, a radiothon organized by Irie Jam Radio and RoadBlock Radio recently shipped 50 barrels of essential relief supplies — from diapers to plywood — back to Jamaica.
A Message of Resilience & Unity
At its core, Jamaica Strong embodies the island’s unbreakable spirit. Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment & Sport, emphasized that Jamaican identity and culture have always been “a unifying force” — especially in times of crisis.
Bobby Clarke, President & CEO of Irie Jam Radio, echoed that sentiment: “This is more than a concert — it is Jamaica’s global family rising as one.” Likewise, Kacy Rankine of RoadBlock Radio called the event “a lifeline” — both emotionally and materially — for those working to rebuild.
How You Can Help (Besides Buying a Ticket)
- Attend or buy tickets: Secure your spot for December 12 via Ticketmaster — your ticket directly supports recovery.
- Donate: Many are supporting Shaggy’s Make A Difference Foundation and the Jamaican government’s relief fund.
- Spread awareness: Share the concert on social media, especially within diaspora communities.
- Contribute supplies: Diaspora groups are also collecting and shipping essential goods — from tarps and zinc to kitchen utensils.
What Makes This Moment Historic
Benefit concerts have long played a role in healing and rebuilding communities. From the legendary One Love Peace Concert in Jamaica’s past to modern relief events, music is a bridge — and Jamaica Strong reflects that lineage while addressing a 21st-century crisis.
This concert isn’t just about fundraising. It’s a declaration: even in the face of devastation, Jamaica’s spirit — and its global community — remain strong.
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