Held at NoMi Village in North Miami, Rastafari Day is part of the annual Reggae Month celebrations in South Florida. It not only acknowledges the impact of that group on Jamaican culture, but gives artistes like Binghi Blaze a chance to shine.

This year’s show took place on February 15, with Inner Circle, Warrior King, Pressure Busspipe and The Counteraction Band also taking the stage.

“It was amazing. On Rastafari Day, we represent Rastafari so it’s always going to be a powerful event to be a part of. As a Rasta chanter, wi cyah say reggae without Rasta,” said Binghi Blaze, who made his second appearance.

Interestingly, the roots-reggae singer is promoting Hail King Selassie, a song that salutes the Ethiopian Emperor who many Rastafarians consider to be God.

He also used his Rastafari Day performance to expose Africa Great Again, another of his latest songs. Binghi Blaze praised Inner Circle for promoting Reggae Month in South Florida.

“We have to big up Inner Circle for keeping the reggae culture alive in a another country. I spoke to (guitarist) Roger Lewis from Inner Circle and he said it’s only right for them to do that and honour Rastafari and reggae,” he disclosed.

Reggae Month in South Florida is meant to encompass the diverse Jamaican music experience. There are also gospel and dancehall events, as well as a ceremony honoring the genre’s stalwarts.

Binghi Blaze, who is based in South Florida, is from Manchester. A recording artiste for over 10 years, most of his live shows take place there and in New York.

– Howard Campbell