The LargeUp Agency, in partnership with Brooklyn Bowl, is set to host a fundraising event in support of Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts in Jamaica.

The event, titled “Nice Up Jamaica!”, is scheduled for December 16 and will feature performances from Yellowman, Johnny Osbourne, veteran percussionist Larry McDonald, and sound system operator and singer Yaadcore. Proceeds will go toward the Hurricane Melissa recovery in Jamaica.

Co-founder of the New York-based LargeUp Agency, Dave Susser, told Observer Online that the company began planning a benefit event once they saw the destruction the Category 5 storm caused in Jamaica.

“We knew Jamaica was going to need as much help as possible, and we wanted to heed the call. We felt the urgency to do it as soon as possible but also wanted to have the time to prepare a well-curated event that was up to our standards,” Susser shared.

“We were approached to partner with Brooklyn Bowl, one of the most important venues for live music in New York City, where we’ve done some great events with Shaggy, Patra, Mr Vegas, Johnny Osbourne and Sister Nancy,” he added.

Funds raised from “Nice Up Jamaica!” will go to American Friends of Jamaica, Rebuild Cockpit Country, World Central Kitchen and Ghetto Youths Foundation, which are involved in the restoration process in Jamaica.

For Jesse Serwer, co-founder of the LargeUp Agency, Yellowman’s personal story of being raised in orphanages to become a world-famous artiste, befits the occasion.

“I’ve always wanted to do a show with Yellowman around the holidays. His story of triumph over adversity from his birth until now is something I think people need to hear at this time of year to put their own lives into perspective,” he said.

Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, caused widespread damage to the parishes of St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St James and Trelawny. It also resulted in the deaths of 45 people.

— Howard Campbell