Reggae Sumfest adds R Kelly, to honor Beres Hammond

June 18th, 2011 

Reggae Sumfest 2011 has announced two new developments relating to their show next month.

Firstly, it was confirmed yesterday that R&B legend, R Kelly will perform at this years Sumfest show in Montego Bay. Kellys appearance at this years International Night on July 22nd will mark the second time hes travelled to Jamaica. Executive producer of Reggae Sumfest 2011, Johnny Gourzong expressed delight with being able to book the I Wish singer for the event. The Reggae Sumfest team is excited to be presenting R Kelly on the Sumfest stage. We have been trying to contract him for the last five years and it is great to see that it is finally happening. We are expecting a spectacular performance from Mr. Kelly, Gourzong intimated.

R Kellys first Jamaican appearance was at a 1996 concert at Jamworld in St. Catherine. Since then he has belted out countless hit songs such as I Believe I Can Fly, Ignition, Happy People & Step In The Name Of Love. R Kelly joins the likes rapper Nicki Minaj and reggae artistes Mavado, Beenie Man, Tanya Stephens and I-Octane on the five-day events lineup card.

In other news, iconic Reggae singer, Beres Hammond will be honored at Sumfest; recognizing him for his various contributions in the music industry. His resume includes at least 18 albums and six compilations. Some of his most memorable hit songs include Tempted to Touch, Double Trouble, Cant Stop A Man From Trying & I Feel Good.

Beres is an icon and a cornerstone of the Jamaican music industry, Gourzong intimated during a press release from Sumfests publicist, Headline Entertainment. He added, We at Reggae Sumfest are very pleased to be presenting this great reggae artiste and felt that he deserves to be recognized for his enormous contribution to the growth and development of our music. A Reggae Sumfest without Beres never truly feels complete.

By Jodee Brown
Jamaican Pop Culture Examiner