Today (July 1) is recognized as “International Reggae Day“, and we salute the pioneers, the movers and shakers, and the talent who took this genre to every part of the world, influencing generations. One of people who made Reggae an emerging force in the beginning was the late Producer Leslie Kong. Through Kong, the career of Jimmy Cliff took off, the launch of Beverley’s Records from a small Record Shop, to a Internationally known Record Label happened, Bob Marley got to record his first single, the establishment of Chris Blackwell’s Island Records and Graeme Goodall’s short-lived Pyramid label through his early investments, and taking Reggae Music to the International market. Kong also became the Island’s leading Producer having worked with everyone from Toots and The Maytals, Desmond Dekker, and many others. Today, we salute his work with our latest Playlist, “Sampling Leslie Kong“.
For over 3 1/2 hours, “Sampling Leslie Kong” highlights some of Kong’s many hits, and the songs that sampled them. From Jimmy Cliff, to Toots and The Maytals, to Bob Marley, to Desmond Dekker, to Christina Aguilera, to Foxy Brown, to Shaggy, to Vampire Weekend, to SchoolBoy Q, to FatBoySlim, the new Playlist will entertain you, and of course educate you. International Reggae Day was created by Andrea Davis, and it celebrates 30 years. IRD has a selection of events that many can participate in, and you can join in now on IReggaeDay.com. Here’s to Reggae, and here’s to Leslie Kong.
Check out the Playlist below, and share with a friend. Show us some love/follow us on Twitter, TikTok, Threads, and Instagram at @13thStreetPromo.
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International Reggae Day is not only a day to recognize the power of Reggae music, but to remember those who’ve paved the way for other artists to create it. Known as the “Cool Ruler“, Gregory Isaacs warmed many hearts and captured the attention of many with his smooth deliveries and lyrics. With over 500 albums to his name, Gregory was always working and delivering the hits worldwide. Today, St. Lucia’s DJ Levi Chin pays tribute to the late singer by creating a mix of some of his biggest hits. Check out the mix below and share your thoughts in the comments section.
On International Reggae Day not only do we celebrate Reggae Music, but celebrate the lives of many who contributed to the genre. One artist who is celebrated today is the late Dennis Emmanuel Brown. Known as the “Crown Prince of Reggae“, Dennis Brown was a top tier Reggae artist who created beautiful songs that captured the hearts of many and influenced many upcoming artists. Having passed away on July 1, 1999, I use today to highlight one of his many concerts. Backed by Lloyd Parks and We The People Band, Dennis Brown had great stage presence and commanded the attention of patrons. Celebrate International Reggae Day with the Crown Prince of Reggae! Check out the video below and share your thoughts in the comments section.
Kicking things off on International Reggae Day is a Reggae Mixtape created by St. Lucia’s own DJ Levi Chin. Titled “Reggae City Vol. 1“, this is almost 60 minutes of some of the most popular Reggae singles in rotation. Listen to great contributions from Sizzla Kalonji, Capleton, Beres Hammond, Shaggy, Jah Cure, Chronixx and many more. Prepare to rock the day away to these awesome selections from DJ Levi Chin. Reggae Music brought forth many talented acts so celebrate them on International Reggae Day and onward! Check out the mix below and share your thoughts in the comments section.