Raheem Robinson Talks Roots Rock Reggae In The Cayman Islands

“It’s a night of love, unity, and appreciation for the farming community.” That’s how Raheem Robinson sums up Roots Rock Reggae, a growing cultural event bringing together music, agriculture, and Caribbean heritage in the Cayman Islands.

Speaking with World Music Views, Robinson shared the heart behind the event, its history, and why it’s becoming a key date on the Cayman cultural calendar.

What Is Roots Rock Reggae?

Roots Rock Reggae isn’t just a concert — it’s a cultural bridge between music and agriculture.

Now in its fourth or fifth year, the event serves as the official pre-concert to the Cayman Islands Agricultural Show, shining a spotlight on the island’s farming community.

“We want to show support and appreciation to the agricultural and farming community,” Robinson explained. “So we created a roots reggae show in advance of the Agricultural Show just for them.”

Farming has deep roots in Cayman’s history. Alongside its seafaring legacy and historic trade links with Jamaica, agriculture remains an important part of the local identity.

Fully Caymanian, Fully Homegrown

Robinson is proudly Caymanian, and so is the entire leadership team behind the event. His partners include:

• Kenny Rankin (Caymanian)
• DJ Super C (Caymanian)

That local ownership is intentional — Roots Rock Reggae is designed by Caymanians, for the community, while still embracing the wider Caribbean.

Roots Rock Reggae

 The Main Event — Valentine’s Night Vibes

The headline concert takes place February 14 (Valentine’s Night) and features reggae royalty.

Leading the charge:

• Freddie McGregor
• Stephen McGregor
• Chino McGregor
• Zosia McGregor
• The Big Ship Crew
• Code Red Band

Supporting local talent includes:

• Baneil Miller
• Vashti
• Rico Rolando
• Andy Blake (performing a Jimmy Cliff tribute)

Robinson promises a mature, sophisticated crowd and a setting that fits the romance of Valentine’s Day.

“It’ll be a night of love, unity, and togetherness… the headline artists and the local acts all share that same positive ethos.”

Tied to the Agricultural Show

The concert leads directly into the Cayman Islands Agricultural Show, which follows on Ash Wednesday (the 18th). While that event focuses more on local entertainment and agricultural showcases, Roots Rock Reggae sets the tone with an international musical celebration.

Government Support

The event has strong official backing, including:

• The Ministry of Agriculture, led by Hon. J. E. Banks
• The Ministry of Culture, under Hon. Isaac Rankin
• The Ministry of Immigration and Cayman Employment (supporting work permit processes)

Robinson says this partnership highlights the event’s broader mission: culture, community, and contribution.

 A Charitable, Caribbean Effort

Beyond entertainment, Roots Rock Reggae aims to give back. Organizers plan to make a donation to assist displaced farmers in Jamaica following hurricane damage, in collaboration with Jamaican partners — turning the event into a regional act of solidarity.

The Cayman Vibe

For visitors unfamiliar with Cayman, Robinson describes an atmosphere that’s warm but refined:

• Tropical setting
• Community-centered energy
• Romance in the air
• Conscious reggae message