Jamaica’s vibrant music scene is once again proving its power to unite, heal, and inspire action—this time in response to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa. With communities across Jamaica’s western and central parishes reeling from the storm’s impact, a sweeping series of benefit concerts and media fundraisers has emerged, mobilizing support from Kingston to New York, London, Toronto, and beyond. These efforts, under the banner of the ‘I Love Jamaica’ Concert Series, promise not just entertainment, but a lifeline for families, students, and entire communities struggling to rebuild.
According to the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the ‘I Love Jamaica’ campaign is more than a collection of concerts—it’s a global call to action. Endorsed and spearheaded by the Jamaican government, the initiative aims to raise urgently needed resources for national recovery and rebuilding efforts. Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, speaking to the campaign’s significance, stated, “Jamaica’s culture has always been a source of strength, pride, and global influence. 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.”
Central to these efforts is the marquee event at New York’s UBS Arena, scheduled for Friday, December 12, 2025. Presented by Jamaica Strong NY Inc., and supported by major sponsor UBS Arena, the concert will feature international superstar and Grammy Award-winning artist Shaggy as its headliner. The line-up promises a blend of top-tier Jamaican and international artists, community leaders, and surprise guests, all rallying for the cause. Every dollar raised from ticket sales and donations will flow directly into the government’s official Hurricane Relief Fund, earmarked exclusively for families, students, and communities in the hardest-hit parishes, including St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St James, and Hanover. Strict accountability and transparency measures will ensure that the funds reach those most in need.
The New York event is a collaborative effort, bringing together Jammins Entertainment, The Irie Jam Foundation, and RoadBlock Radio. Bobby Clarke, president and CEO of Irie Jam Radio, captured the spirit of the moment: “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.”
But the movement doesn’t stop in New York. The Ministry is finalizing arrangements for additional concerts in Toronto and South Florida, ensuring that the Jamaican diaspora across North America can play a direct role in the recovery. Meanwhile, a pivotal virtual fundraising concert is set for Sunday, November 16, 2025, streaming nationally and internationally from the studios of the Caribbean Public Television Corporation (CPTC). Headlined by reggae and dancehall stars Christopher Martin, Masicka, and Nigy Boy, the virtual event aims to raise at least US $1 million for relief efforts across Jamaica’s most severely affected regions.
Minister Grange emphasized the unifying role of music in these challenging times, noting that Jamaica’s rich heritage—rooted in reggae, roots, and dancehall—remains a powerful source of hope and solidarity. The virtual format, she explained, allows supporters across the diaspora to engage directly, donate, and uplift the national spirit. “The anthem of reggae unites the Caribbean community,” she said, highlighting the campaign’s blend of music and philanthropy.
Across the Atlantic, the UK’s Caribbean community is stepping up in force. On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, London’s KOKO Camden will host a special concert led by comedian Kane Brown, while on Sunday, November 16, Boxpark Wembley will see the legendary Rampage Sound System bring together stars like DJ AG, Alesha Dixon, Cashh, Lady Leshurr, Mahalia, Ms Dynamite, Omar, Seani B, and Zeze Millz for the ‘For The Love Of Jamaica’ fundraiser. According to organizers, 100% of proceeds from these events will go directly to the Jamaica National Foundation, ensuring that aid reaches those most in need.
Caribbean media platforms in the UK are also joining the cause. Island Girls Rock, Just Vibez, and Know Your Caribbean are teaming up for a free night of love, rhythm, and solidarity at Pop Brixton on Friday, November 28, 2025. Their ‘Love & Support Fundraiser Fete’ will raise support not only for Jamaican families, but also for those affected by Hurricane Melissa across Haiti, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic. The event is designed to be inclusive, welcoming anyone who wishes to stand in solidarity with the Caribbean community.
Meanwhile, the intersection of music and politics finds a unique expression at the Fox & Firkin in London, where, on November 12, 2025, the charity night ‘Rum & Bass’ will feature performances by Big Narstie, Toddla T, and Big Zeeks, with Labour MP Dawn Butler making a special appearance. All proceeds from this event will be donated to supportjamaica.gov.jm, further expanding the network of support for Jamaica’s recovery.
Throughout these events, the message is clear: Jamaica’s global family is rising as one. As Kacy Rankine, CEO of WCBS, put it, “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. Hurricane Melissa tore through St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St James, Hanover and other parishes, but it never touched our resolve. Jamaica Strong’s ‘I Love Jamaica’ Concert is a lifeline for families fighting to rebuild.”
From the studios of the Caribbean Public Television Corporation to the legendary sound systems of London, the International Hurricane Melissa Benefit Concert Series is a testament to the unbreakable spirit of Jamaica and the strength of its global community. Each event, whether virtual or in-person, reminds the world that when music meets purpose, it has the power to rebuild and restore. As the rhythm of reggae and dancehall echoes across borders, every note carries a message of hope and unity—proof that to love Jamaica is to stand together in times of need.
With every stage, every sound system, and every streaming link, the world is witnessing the remarkable resilience of Jamaica and its diaspora. The coming weeks will see an outpouring of support, music, and solidarity—a chorus of voices determined to help Jamaica rise stronger than before.
