Tonight, the heartbeat of New Kingston will pulse with the ‘Positive Vibrations’ of the king of reggae as Emancipation Park transforms into a massive open-air stage to commemorate Bob Marley’s 81st birthday.

Emphasising that this is far more than just a concert, Minister of Entertainment and Culture Olivia “Babsy” Grange said the event will be profound celebration of the life and enduring legacy of one the world’s most prolific singer-songwriters.

The choice of Emancipation Park as the venue for tonight’s festivities is far from coincidental, the minister told Jamaica Observer’s Splash. The park stands as a permanent monument to the ending of slavery and the triumph of the human spirit; it mirrors the Redemption Songs that Marley gifted to the world.

“That is the main reason we continue to host the tribute concert at Emancipation Park. The park was created as a space for national reflection and celebration, and it is therefore a fitting venue to honour Bob Marley’s legacy,” Grange said. “We encourage Jamaicans to come out and be part of a celebration that highlights something truly and uniquely Jamaican.”

“The truth is, Bob Marley is such an international icon that every year we have to continue educating people about who he was, his contribution to the music, and the impact he has had globally. That is really what underpins these celebrations each year… There are always young people, both here at home and abroad, who are learning something new about Bob Marley, so it is important that we keep the story going,” the minister said.

“Having Stephen Marley, Bob’s son, on the show is especially significant. It is a rare performance by Stephen here in Jamaica, and it only strengthens our resolve to keep the Marley story alive,” she added.

The artiste line-up will also include Bushman, Warrior King, Etana, NAJ, and JemereMorgan.

Two reggae bands from Mexico — Out of Control Army and Sangre Maíz — will also be part of the show.

— Shereita Grizzle