Going into 2009, promoters of live shows in Jamaica faced challenging times. They were beginning to feel the effects of a global recession that took root in the summer of 2008 and were bracing for the worst.

One event that came away unscathed, according to the organisers, was Reggae Sumfest, the annual week-long show that has taken place at Catherine Hall in Montego Bay, St James since 1993. Prior to the show, spokespersons for Summerfest Productions acknowledged the difficult financial times, but announced a line-up they believed would make Reggae Sumfest 2009 the best ever.

Dancehall’s elite, led by Beenie Man and Bounty Killer, packed the house on Dancehall Night which Summerfest says drew an astonishingly large number of patrons. It proved that despite plunging album sales, the dancehall genre remains the most popular and dynamic sound in Jamaica.

The International Nights had great support as well and featured new-wave American soul singers Ne-Yo, Jazmine Sullivan and Keri Hilson and also Queen Ifrica, the new first lady of roots dancehall. However, one the biggest plusses for Sumfest was undoubtedly the appearance of Tito Jackson on the second International Night. Tito’s presence gained international attention and influenced major television networks to cover his set which was largely a tribute to his deceased brother.

The financial analysts say the recession, now in its second year, has eased somewhat. Reggae Sumfest kicks off in Montego Bay, Jamaica on the main concert grounds at Catherine Hall on Thursday July 22 with three nights of music, ending on Saturday, July 24.