Unlike other major East Coast cities like New York and Boston, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has never had a big reggae scene, but the pulsating rhythms of Jamaican music made an impact on Anni Mai, who was born and raised there.

A self-described neo-soul singer, she also performs with the Errol Wisdom World Beat Reggae Band, which is led by Jamaican Errol Wisdom. Having recorded several rhythm and blues songs, she is eager to make the transition to reggae.

“Reggae is a genre that speaks to my spirit, so recording a reggae-inspired song is something I would love to do in the near future. I think it would be a beautiful blend with my neo-soul style and live band sound,” she said. “I want the music to feel authentic, uplifting and timeless.”

Economically, Pittsburgh is known for its steel industry, which made it one of the United States’ most thriving industrial centres. While the reggae circuit is low-key, established acts like The Wailers are scheduled to perform there in September.

Pittsburgh is also where Bob Marley’s final concert was held. That took place on September 23, 1980, at the Stanley Theatre.

A former sports reporter with The Sentinel newspaper in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Anni Mai was raised on the music of Etta James, Sade and Whitney Houston. She expresses those soulful influences as a member of The Rhythm of The Night Fusion Band.

Her playlist grew to include Jamaican acts like Marley, Gregory Isaacs and Beres Hammond.

“Even as a young listener, reggae felt healing and powerful at the same time. As I’ve grown musically, my appreciation for Jamaican music has deepened even more,” said Anni Mai. “I now understand how much emotion, spirituality, culture, and storytelling are woven into reggae. It’s music that can make you dance while also making you think and feel something meaningful.”