When you think of reggae, what images come to mind? Perhaps it’s the laid-back rhythms, the infectious melodies, or the iconic figure of Bob Marley strumming his guitar under the Jamaican sun. Reggae is more than just music; it’s a cultural phenomenon that transcends borders and stirs the soul. In Newport, South Wales, the Reggae & Riddim Festival, organised by Urban Circle Newport and the Rastafari Indigenous Village, celebrates this intangible culture and heritage like never before. Whether you have been to Milton Keynes, Manchester or even Amsterdam or Italy to witness live reggae, at this festival in a tiny city called Newport, which nestles inside the tiny country of Wales, people are doing whatever they can to protect this unique culture.
Have a watch of what the last festival was like, where 4000 guests arrived from across the country to live and love Reggae music and culture together.
The Magic of Reggae Music
Reggae music has deep roots in Jamaica, originating in the late 1960s. It’s a genre that speaks to the heart and soul, addressing personal and societal issues. Reggae’s unique blend of rhythms and lyrical storytelling has made it a powerful force for change and unity. It’s a genre that can transform a room into a dance floor, bringing people together in the spirit of love and unity. Reggae music isn’t just about catchy tunes and smooth rhythms; it’s also a bearer of intangible culture and heritage. It carries the stories and struggles of a people, serving as a medium for expressing their history and aspirations.
The Reggae & Riddim Festival pays homage to this aspect of reggae, emphasizing its importance as a cultural treasure. No discussion of reggae is complete without mentioning the legendary Bob Marley. His music, often dubbed the “soundtrack of the world,” inspires and resonates with audiences worldwide. At the Reggae & Riddim Festival, you’ll hear echoes of Bob Marley’s timeless classics, a reminder of his enduring legacy.
Reggae has transcended its Jamaican origins to become a global phenomenon. From Milton Keynes to Amsterdam, reggae has found a home in people’s hearts worldwide. The Reggae & Riddim Festival in Newport celebrates this international connection, welcoming reggae enthusiasts from around the globe.
