Charlemont Reggae Festival: A Community’s Enduring Rhythm Returns for its 28th Year

The rolling hills of Western Massachusetts are set to pulse with the vibrant rhythms of reggae as the 28th Annual Charlemont Reggae Festival returns to the historic Charlemont Fairgrounds this Saturday, August 23. This long-standing community event, celebrated for its message of positivity and unity, marks a new chapter this year under the leadership of musician and international event organizer, Shanti Starr.

A Legacy of Reggae in the Hill Towns

The Charlemont Fairgrounds, a public park nestled high on the National Register of Historic Places, has been a nexus for reggae music for decades. The very first reggae concert at the fairgrounds dates back to 1983 or 1984, featuring Ras Jahn Bullock and his band, Loose Caboose. This initial music showcase laid the groundwork for what would become New England’s longest-running reggae festival. The annual Charlemont Reggae Festival was officially founded in 1997 by reggae musician Abdul Baki. He passed the torch to Ras Jahn Bullock and his wife Elizabeth, who diligently helmed the event from 2002 until Bullock’s passing in 2017. The festival continued under the stewardship of Greenfield’s Hawks & Reed until this year. This year’s event is particularly poignant, dedicated to the memory of Ras Jahn Bullock, honoring his profound impact on bringing reggae to Charlemont. While last year saw an expanded two-day format with multiple stages, the 28th annual celebration returns to its roots as a one-day, one-stage affair, promising an intimate and cohesive experience.

Shanti Starr’s Vision for a Community Celebration

For the first time, Shanti Starr, a veteran reggae artist and experienced organizer behind the Mount Mineral Music Festival, steps into the role of lead organizer. Starr, who will also perform, brings a fresh perspective while deeply honoring the festival’s community-centric ethos. “This is our festival, it’s the community’s,” Starr emphasizes, highlighting her focus on fostering a collective spirit. Her leadership is characterized by meticulous attention to detail and clear communication, which she views as a labor of love for the event. She is actively working to involve original players who performed in the festival’s earlier years, creating a “community renaissance.” Starr is also keen on promoting a balanced representation, bringing in more women musicians and stage crew, ensuring a nurturing energy permeates the gathering.

Charlemont Town Administrator Sarah Reynolds echoed the widespread enthusiasm for the festival, describing it as a “positive and good event” with a history free of problems. The town, home to approximately 1,200 residents, eagerly anticipates the influx of attendees drawn to this cultural highlight.

A Dynamic Lineup of Global and Local Talent

The festival boasts an impressive roster of eleven local and international reggae artists, alongside two dynamic DJs, ensuring a full day of captivating music. Attendees can look forward to performances by:

* Nefertiti, a vocalist from Connecticut known for her angelic voice and healing energy.
* Ras Iba, representing the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Croix), bringing sounds reminiscent of Midnite.
* Clatta Bumboo, hailing from Jamaica and now based in Providence, Rhode Island, with a presence likened to Peter Tosh.
* Shanti Starr & the Afro-Reggae All Stars, Starr’s own band, blending West African instruments with reggae.
* Ras Moon, from Cape Verde, who infuses his reggae with Cape Verdean and African influences.
* Root Fiyah, led by festival co-founder Abdul Baki.
* Gaia Roots, a powerful drum group of which Starr is a member.
* Souls of Zion, blending reggae with hip-hop and R&B.
* Local favorites The Equalites, who have been playing the festival for many years.
* Mystic I, offering roots reggae infused with jazz.
* Roosta Acoustic, featuring Jamaican native Roosta.

The day kicks off at 12:30 p.m. with a Nyabinghi session, an opening prayer led by Abdul Baki, inviting all to participate with heartbeat drums, chanting, and shakers, setting a spiritual tone for the day’s festivities. DJ Cancer and DJ Trends will keep the energy flowing with selections of roots reggae, dancehall, and soca.

Experience the Festival: More Than Just Music

Beyond the stages, the Charlemont Reggae Festival promises a holistic family-friendly experience from noon to 10 p.m. Attendees can explore a variety of food vendors offering diverse culinary delights and an exotic craft market featuring local artists. Activities for children will ensure fun for all ages. The picturesque Charlemont Fairgrounds provides a stunning backdrop with its beautiful mountain views and clean air, creating an atmosphere of vastness and mystical energy that enhances the musical experience. The festival encourages guests to bring lawn chairs or blankets to fully enjoy the day in comfort. This year’s festival is poised to deliver not just an unforgettable event but also a cherished experience of community, culture, and conscious music, making it essential news for reggae enthusiasts and local residents alike.