After moving to Canada in 1990, it did not take Colin Levy long to observe the lack of a reggae structure in the country, particularly in Toronto, which had a large Jamaican community. That inspired him to start Kings Of Kings Productions, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

Known in reggae circles as Iley Dread, the singer/producer marks that milestone with Kings Of Kings 30th Anniversary Jubilee Celebration, scheduled for May 30 at the Jamaican Canadian Center in Toronto.

The event will also honour artistes, musicians, administrators and journalists who have contributed to Jamaican music. Most of them, like Iley Dread, have played important roles in Canadian reggae.

“I had the dream but it was individuals among I who helped to make this dream manifest and fulfilled. In terms of accomplishments, we have generated income to provide employment for masses of individuals, not only in Canada, but from all walks of creation,” he said.

There will be four recipients of the Crystal Award — Etana, Professor Nuts, Brian Muntz, a stalwart of Kings Of Kings Productions, and broadcaster DJ Spex Da Boss.

Seventeen persons will receive the Nipigon Crystal Award, including artistes Jah Cutter, Lazah Current, Tony Anthony, Donna Makeda and Vernon “Maytones” Buckley, musician/producer Osborne “Ifield” Joseph, and promoters of Rastafest, arguably the best known reggae event in Canada.

Iley Dread migrated to Canada 35 years ago and started his career as a singer in Montreal. Eventually, he moved to Toronto where there was a vibrant reggae market established by fellow Jamaicans Leroy Sibbles, Willi Williams and the Messenjah band.

Kings Of Kings Productions became a leading player in Canadian reggae during the 1990s, but the label also had a strong presence in Jamaica. Among Iley Dread’s productions are Persistence, the 2000 album by Norris Man that contains the title song.