Having debuted as part of Spring Break activities in 2000, Rich Tropical Island (RTI) is among the ‘daddies’ of Negril’s ‘Emancipendence’ parties.

It returns July 28 – August 1 after a one-year absence at Woodstock and Happy World Car Rental, both located on Negril’s seven-mile beach.

Robert Williams, who started the event 16 years ago, said the break was deliberate.

“I decided to give up one year to strategise and restructure our events in order for our patrons’ experiences to be even better. We want them to enjoy 18 hours of partying with six hours of sleep, spread over four days during Independence holiday weekend in the most idyllic spot in the Western Hemisphere —Negril,” Williams told

Splash.

RTI kicks off with the novel Quiet On The Sand. It features a concept that has caught among ‘clubbers’ in Europe and North America.

“This will be a silent headphone party and our welcome party. Negril has never had a silent headphone party, so we are beyond pleased to bring it to them. Heatwave (August 1) will also be bigger and better as new and more popular artistes will be performing,” Williams said.

Pretty In Pink on July 30 and Beach Bums on July 31 complete RTI’s calendar.

Williams has operated the Rebel T sound system for 20 years. In 2009, Rebel T won the Guiness Sounds of Greatness series, beating more established rivals like Bodyguard, Fire Links and Bass Odyssey.

Rebel T, Fire Links, Renaissance and colourful selector Matterhorn are confirmed for RTI. Williams pointed out the importance of such events to the economy.

“RTI does not only boost the Negril economy, but also the Jamaican economy. The series creates inflows for businesses in and around Negril and boosts tourism,” he explained. “Obviously, if we have 30,000 patrons spending 12,000 per day for four days, that is in excess of $1 billion. So, clearly we help to boost the economy.”

— Howard Campbell