Rebel Salute 2017 is the 23rd staging of the outdoor cultural extravaganza, the brainchild of international artist Patrick “Tony Rebel” Barrett. He revealed his vision for January 2017 at Milk River Bar & Lounge in Brooklyn and was more than ably assisted in delivering that message (in order of appearance) by the likes of Ras Shiloh, Bushman, Ed Robinson, Gully Bop and Queen Ifrica who also aired tracks from her new album Climb in the form of a listening/album release/mini concert.
Media was invited to hear the plans for 2017 and you could tell by the numbers in attendance that they were already fired up. Jamaica’s new Consul General to New York, Ms. Trudy Deans gave her endorsement in her address to those present. Irie Jam Radio provided live streaming of the event with commentary from Irwine Clare and music from Chris the Dub Master who kept the non-stop party vibe going.
The atmosphere was upbeat as Tony Rebel and members of his team advised the media of what the public could expect for January 13-14 in Priory St. Ann. With a line-up that includes veterans Derek Morgan, Bernard Collins from the Abyssinians, Third World, Johnny Osborne, Anthony B, Ed Robinson Junior Kelly, Half Pint, Wayne Wonder, Bushman, and artists like Ras Shiloh, Shevaun, Agent Sasco and Queen Ifrica, representing the younger artists blazing trails in their own right.
For the eco-friendly and adventurous, there’s a camp site where, for $40 per night, you can get back to nature; for those seeking a more luxurious experience; special deals can be had from hotel partners Cardiff Hall and The Hilton Montego Bay with the latter providing shuttle service to the site.
Patrons will certainly not be bored at the two day event, they can attend the Fashion Village with its emphasis on culture evident in the clothing, jewelry and shoes on sale and display, the abundance of food items to sample and many patrons will no doubt flock to the event to experience the so-called ‘Herb Curb’ an area designated not just to promote the smoking of weed, but also to provide a showcase for its by-products and myriad uses. This is perhaps one of the few venues in Jamaica where ganja will be openly smoked without fear of reprisal – the organizers having been granted special license. While the ganja will be smoked freely, Rebel Salute is an otherwise drug free, alcohol free, violence free and meat free exposition celebrating quality cultural music, lifestyle and heritage.
