Reggae fans turn out strong for Rebel Salute’s Florida debut
The threat of rain in South Florida could not dampen the spirit of reggae fans who turned out in numbers on April 19 for Rebel Salute at Miramar Regional Park. The show made its debut there after two postponements in 2025.
Tony Rebel, Rebel Salute’s founder, estimated it drew a crowd of 7,000. Other counts varied, from 2,500 to 4,000, but all agreed that there was tremendous enthusiasm from patrons.
“I’m very pleased with the response to our debut in South Florida. I think a foundation has been set for bigger things in the future,” said Tony Rebel in an interview with Observer Online.
There were solid performances throughout, especially from the main acts — Mikey Spice, LUST, Mykal Rose, Maxi Priest, Chalice and Tony Rebel. Gyptian and Louie Culture were no-shows.
Because of the postponements last year, and the clash of dates with the popular Rhythms Of Africa at nearby Miramar Cultural Center, there were doubts surrounding Rebel Salute’s drawing power. But those fears were dispelled by a strong turnout at the venue that hosts the annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in November.
Tony Rebel was presented with the key to Broward County by Jamaican Alexandria P Davis, a commissioner for that region. She was overwhelmed by the response to the show.
“Having been to Rebel Salute in Jamaica over the years, it was good for folks here to experience this event in South Florida. The turnout despite rain was great for its first year,” she told Observer Online. “As far as benefits to the city, it solidifies the efforts to be culturally-diverse.”
Tony Rebel first staged Rebel Salute on January 15 (his birthday) 1994. That maiden show took place at Fayors Entertainment Centre in Mandeville, with his close friend Garnet Silk as headliner.
He is looking forward to returning to South Florida.
“I’m very encouraged. Will do it again,” he said.
Mykal Rose (Photo: Steve James)
LUST (Photo: Steve James)
Mikey Spice (Photo: Steve James)
A patron enjoying the Florida staging of Rebel Salute on April 19, 2026. (Photo: Steve James)
