In the early to mid-2000’s deejay Elephant Man rode high with several dance-oriented hit songs.

Songs such as Signal Di Plane, Pon Di River, Willie Bounce, and Wine Wine (Jook Gal) skated several Billboard charts.

Elephant Man is gearing up to take patrons on a journey back in time to relive those hits and more when he takes the stage at Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival at Miramar Regional Park, Florida, on Sunday, November 10.

“Well, you definitely know it’s gonna be crazy. An event like the jerk festival brings out the entire family, and everybody coming out to enjoy the food, enjoy the culture, and the music. And who better than the Energy God to bring it home. We have the dancing songs for everyone,” Elephant Man told the Jamaica Observer’s Splash on Thursday.

Said Elephant Man: “I was looking at the flier for the event and it just have that energy, the people, and the whole vibe. Mek mi tell yuh this, everybody ago waan dance and have a good time. I am looking forward to seeing the Jamaican flag waving in the crowd, to have a good time, and forget about the hurricane that passed through Florida recently. This is the time; this is the show, and this is the place.”

The entertainment package at the festival is expected to rival the focus on having a wholesome food event.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer earlier this week, Eddy Edwards, managing partner and CEO of Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, promised patrons an experience at the 22nd staging of the event.

“This year we have worked with our title sponsor Grace Foods and associate sponsor Publix to elevate the look and feel of the festival… The festival grounds have been expanded and there will be more interactive activities for the guests,” he said.

The activities on the Publix Culinary Stage include a new Influencer Challenge, where Cheyanne Rodney will compete against Monica Gonzales. This Food Fight will be a lot of fun, and the ladies are expected to take this contest very seriously.

There will also be cultural presentations on the main stage with Christopher “Johnny” Daley hosting, as well as a guest appearance by Delcita.

“The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is a family event and as such we ensure that the entertainment aligns with the values of our sponsors as well as those of our organization… Our programmes are designed for something for every member of the family, from the kids to grandparents,” said Edwards.

Several food vendors will offer a variety of jerk dishes this year and guests can roam around and enjoy the offerings by sponsors, corporate exhibitors, and the expanded food court.

“We will have over 30 food vendors offering a variety of jerk dishes plus other delicious cuisine. There are also novelty vendors with custom-made fashion wear as well as creative island-themed shirts and other accessories,” Edwards revealed.

Back by popular demand, the Publix Culinary Stage, hosted by Chef Irie, will feature a special cooking demonstration by Boston-based Chef Darian. The 2024 Celebrity Cook Off will feature Local 10 anchor Alexis Frazier vs NBC-6 anchor Kris Anderson. Local celebrity Chefs Alain Lemaire and Chef Winston Williams will face-off on stage.

The main stage will feature a combination of classic reggae and dancehall acts as well as Florida-based performers. Throughout the day an impressive slate of DJs, led by Richie D, DJ Radcliffe, Extatic Sound, and DJ Worm will provide the musical soundtrack.