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New York, NY — In the wake of the catastrophic destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa across Jamaica, the Government of Jamaica—through the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (MCGES)—has endorsed a major humanitarian push: the “I Love Jamaica” Concert Series, a benefit created to mobilize urgent resources for national recovery and rebuilding.
Presented by Jamaica Strong NY Inc. in collaboration with Jammins Entertainment, The Irie Jam Foundation, RoadBlock Radio, and other partners, the inaugural concert will take place Friday, December 12, 2025, at the iconic UBS Arena in New York, which has signed on as a major sponsor. International recording star and Grammy Award winner SHAGGY will headline the event.
“This major benefit event highlights the unbreakable bond between Jamaica and its global diaspora, uniting the Caribbean community, friends of Jamaica, and music lovers worldwide to support those most affected by the hurricane’s devastation,” organizers said.
“Jamaica’s culture has always been a source of strength, pride, and global influence,” said The Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport. “In times of crisis, it becomes a unifying force. The ‘I Love Jamaica’ concert reminds us that even from afar, our people and our friends around the world can come together to rebuild lives and restore hope.”
PURPOSE & COMMITMENT
All proceeds will go directly to the Government of Jamaica’s official Hurricane Relief Fund and will be used exclusively to support relief and recovery for families, students, and communities across the hardest-hit parishes. Organizers commit to strict accountability and transparency to ensure every dollar reaches those most in need.
DIASPORA LEADERSHIP & CULTURAL POWER
For more than three decades, Irie Jam Radio has been a cornerstone of Caribbean culture in the tri-state area—amplifying Jamaican music, community issues, and diaspora engagement. Its leadership in this initiative underscores both credibility and reach.
“This effort goes to the very heart of who we are,” said Bobby Clarke, President & CEO of Irie Jam Radio. “For 32 years, Irie Jam has stood as a voice for our culture, our struggles, and our triumphs. In this moment of national pain, we are called once again to serve. This is more than a concert. It is Jamaica’s global family rising as one. When we combine the force of our music with the strength of our diaspora, there is no disaster we cannot overcome.”
A NIGHT OF HEALING, PRIDE & UNBREAKABLE SPIRIT
“When ‘Mr. Boombastic’ SHAGGY and friends take the stage at UBS Arena, he’ll be carrying the heartbeat of a Jamaica that will rise again—because we cannot be broken,” said Kacy Rankine, CEO of RoadblockRadio.com / WCBS 101.1 FM HD3. “Hurricane Melissa tore through St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St. James, [and] Hanover, but it never touched our resolve. Jamaica Strong’s ‘I Love Jamaica’ Concert is a lifeline for families fighting to rebuild. Roadblock will rally the diaspora as we turn this moment into hope, healing, and action.”
ABOUT THE “I LOVE JAMAICA” CONCERT SERIES
Jamaica Strong is part of the I Love Jamaica Concert Series, endorsed by MCGES. With UBS Arena as a major sponsor, this inaugural staging is expected to draw thousands of patrons and viewers worldwide. The lineup will feature top-tier Jamaican and international artists, community leaders, and special guests—lending their voices and talents to help rebuild homes, schools, and livelihoods across Jamaica.
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