Kingston, 27 February 2020 - (JIS) Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has hailed the nation’s music stalwarts for carving out a space for Jamaica’s indigenous art form on the international stage.

Citing several vintage and contemporary artistes, she said that “these icons are ordinary Jamaicans, who have given the world over six genres that comprise Jamaica’s music.” These include mento, ska, rocksteady, Reggae, dancehall, dub and lovers rock.

“We salute them for their creativity and they have carved out a proud place in the world,” the Minister said.

Minister Grange, who was addressing the recent Jamaica Day celebration at the Denbigh High School in Clarendon, said that the designation of February as Reggae Month is to ensure that the contribution of the artistes is properly showcased.

For his part, Minister without portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister, Hon. Mike Henry, who is also Member of Parliament for Central Clarendon, said it is important for young people to celebrate their country, and to draw inspiration from its builders in various fields.

He further urged them to “prepare yourself to take advantage of the immense opportunities and the potential in Jamaica.”

Jamaica Day was observed under the theme: ‘Celebrating Jamaica…highlighting our Icons in the Arts, Agriculture and Technological Innovations,’ and involved cultural performances and displays, and presentations from leaders in various fields, at schools across the island.

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