The greatest reggae show on earth, Reggae Sumfest, lived up to its name as it turned out to be a memorable experience for all. The 22-year-old festival delivered a spectacular mix of international and local acts from genres spanning Hip Hop, Reggae, Dancehall and R&B. Dancehall night was sensational, as Busy Signal, Mr. Vegas, Popcaan, Aidonia, Bounty Killa among other acts, had the massive sumfest crowd raving until 7 o’clock in the morning. The sensational night was followed by International Night 1, where international acts Wiz Khlaifa and Jason Derulo, as well as Beenie Man, Chronixx and Jah Cure delivered superb performances. International Night 2 was evenly spectacular as Tessanne Chin, Sanchez, Freddie McGregor and Sean Paul each delivered a stellar set, as well as international artiste Future who had the vibrant crowd singing along with every song. As exciting as the happenings on the stage were, so was the excitement inside the VIP booth shared by beverage giants Pepsi and the official beer of Sumfest, Red Stripe. Numerous patrons were able to view the three nights’ performances from inside this elevated booth in comfort and fine style. The booth which was situated at the back, could be spotted from anywhere inside the venue. It provided visiting patrons with a better view of centre stage boasting comfortable lounge seating and a flat screen TV displaying each performance. In addition, patrons were invited to enjoy the cool crisp taste of Red Stripe, Pepsi and Adrenaline Red Fire. Trishell Williams and her friends, all enjoyed their visit to the Red Stripe/Pepsi VIP Lounge.
“I was invited by a friend to stop by the booth, and I ended up staying. I was able to sit and enjoy the show while sipping on a Red Stripe can, I just love these cans!” said Williams. The booth also featured a #iCanRedStripe photo op area. In this area, patrons were able to get their pictures taken in front of an assembly of Red Stripe 330ml cans for the Instagram #iCanRedStripe competition, where the person with the most likes that night would win for themself tickets for the following night. On the other side of the booth, Pepsi had its Pepsi Football Machine. With the purchase of a yellow cap Pepsi 20oz at the bar, patrons were able to play the football machine with the chance of winning footballs, bags, cups and free Pepsi. This area was frequently busy over the three days, as patrons flocked the football machine to engage in some fun football challenges. One patron, David Jones, said he had played the Pepsi Football machine every night. “It’s fun, challenging but fun. I’ve broken at least two top scores, and won at least three footballs, one bag, a cup with my favorite footballer Messi and a lot of Pepsi,” said Jones. In addition to the Red Stripe/Pepsi VIP Lounge, Pepsi Jamaica fully sponsored the media area backstage through its newest brand, Adrenaline Red Fire. Within the cool ventilated area, Adrenaline ambassadors were on hand to serve up free Adrenaline Red Fire to media personnel, artistes and other guests. Reggae Sumfest is a staple on the entertainment calendar and organizers are happy with this year’s turnout.
