Reggae Love Fest: Celebrating Dancehall Royalty and Honoring Reggae Influences

July 1st annually marks International Reggae Day, and what better way for New Yorkers to celebrate the culture than with a live music extravaganza?

Reggae Love Fest took place last month at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, featuring legendary artists such as Shabba Ranks, Capleton, Barrington Levy, Elephant Man, Mad Cobra, Yellow Man, Mad Lion, and Little Vicious. These iconic figures have left an indelible mark on Jamaican music, particularly during the 90s when they epitomized the popular fusion of hip-hop and reggae, paying homage to this genre during the concert. Among the dancehall royalty present was Lady Patra, who captivated us with her timeless album “Queen of the Pack” released 30 years ago.

Patra, the revered reggae female deejay, opened her set with a powerful rendition of fellow Jamaican singer Grace Jones’ classic “Pull Up to the Bumper.” This song, which served as the first single from Patra’s second album “Scent of Attraction” in 1995, became an instant hit in the U.S. Just like Grace Jones, Patra has become an icon, boasting a music career that spans over three decades. Her significance was evident as she stood as the sole female artist in the lineup.

For those who recall, Patra’s music videos for “Think,” filmed in Brooklyn alongside the late Lyn Collins, or “Romantic Call,” featuring rapper Yo-Yo and a guest appearance by Tupac Shakur, are unforgettable. Vanity Fair once acclaimed her as the first international queen of Jamaican dancehall, and even after three decades, she still holds the prestigious title, reigning supreme. Now, she has returned with her latest two singles: “Love Your Body” and “Gimmi Way.”

Last week, Patra, alongside Vicious and Mad Lion, shared the stage at the 2023 BET Awards in Los Angeles. They delivered a sensational medley of their greatest hits, commemorating 50 years of hip-hop and honoring the pioneers who shaped the genre through reggae influences.