On June 27, Freddie McGregor turns 69 years-old. Two days later, the veteran singer celebrates that milestone with Freddie McGregor and Friends, a show which takes place at Sunset Cove Amphitheater in Boca Raton, Florida.

The show has a strong lineup, including Mykal Rose, Anthony B, Spragga Benz, Hopeton Lindo, Perfect Giddimani, Chino McGregor, Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, Frisco Kid and Teflon.

McGregor, who is recovering from a stroke he suffered in October 2022, did not say if he will perform, but told Observer Online that he has made considerable progress.

“My health is the best it has been for a long time, thanks to everyone,” McGregor said, adding that he misses performing.

The Clarendon-born artiste credits rigorous physiotherapy for his physical improvement and vocal strength, and expects that recovery to continue throughout this year.

McGregor’s medical challenges have not affected his activities. In July 2023, he was honoured by promoters of Reggae Sumfest at Catherine Hall in Montego Bay for his contribution to Jamaican music. One month later, he performed to a packed Electric Brixton in London.

Freddie McGregor has been recording music since the early 1960s, with his career starting at Studio One where producer Clement Dodd was a father figure. It was there that he cut Bobby Babylon, his first hit song, in 1979.

Throughout the 1980s, McGregor had numerous hit songs including Big Ship, Push Come to Shove, All in The Same Boat and Prophecy.

– Howard Campbell