Boston’s First Reggae Sunsplash: A Historic Night of Roots, Culture, and Vibes
Presented by JA Music Corp of Jamaica Ltd — July 7, 1979
In the summer of 1979, the streets of Boston were filled with the pulsating rhythms of reggae as the city hosted its very first Reggae Sunsplash, a groundbreaking event that marked a turning point for Caribbean music culture in New England. Presented by JA Music Corp of Jamaica Ltd, this unforgettable night brought together legends and rising stars under one roof, setting the stage for a long-lasting reggae legacy in Boston.
A Musical Milestone in New England
Held on Saturday, July 7, 1979, from 8 p.m. until the early hours, this pioneering concert was the first of its kind in New England, introducing audiences to the power and soul of live reggae music on a scale the region had never seen before.
Leading the lineup was none other than Gregory Isaacs, the “Cool Ruler” himself. Known for his silky smooth vocals and lovers rock anthems, Isaacs was already a global reggae star, captivating crowds with timeless tracks like “My Only Lover” and “Soon Forward”. His presence made the Boston Reggae Sunsplash a truly prestigious affair.
A Diverse and Dynamic Lineup
But the night didn’t end there. The show also featured:
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Horace Andy, the roots reggae icon whose ethereal voice and conscious lyrics had already made waves from Hartford, Connecticut to Kingston. Songs like “Skylarking” and “You Are My Angel” rang out with raw emotional force, bridging the gap between classic roots and soulful introspection.
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Aksumites, hailing from the cultural hotbed of New York City, brought militant energy and pan-African pride to the stage. They were backed by the thunderous groove of New Breed Band, a group known for their powerful instrumentation and deep reggae pulse.
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Representing the hometown reggae flame, Boston’s own Zion Iditation Band rounded out the bill. Infused with Rastafari spirit and grassroots rhythm, they held their own among the night’s heavyweight acts and earned their place as local champions of reggae culture.
A Celebration of Roots and Unity
For just $9 in advance or $10 at the door, fans were treated to a full evening of irie vibes, conscious lyrics, and musical elevation. More than a concert, the event was a celebration — of identity, resistance, and joy. It brought together Jamaican expatriates, African American music lovers, and curious Bostonians under the same roof in unity and celebration of reggae’s universal power.
A Legacy That Lingers
The 1979 Boston Reggae Sunsplash laid the foundation for a blossoming reggae scene in New England. It was more than a performance — it was a cultural statement. The success of the show helped open doors for future reggae events, radio support, and the birth of Boston’s own reggae festivals and sound systems in the years to come.
To this day, July 7, 1979, is remembered as the night reggae officially made its mark on Boston.
Flyer Tagline (Reimagined):
Boston’s First Reggae Sunsplash – A Roots Revolution Begins!
🎤 Gregory Isaacs • Horace Andy • Aksumites (NYC) • Zion Iditation (Boston)
🎸 Backed by Heavy New Breed Band
📍 Live in Boston | 🕗 8PM Till | 💵 $9 Adv / $10 Door
Presented by JA Music Corp of Jamaica Ltd
