Joe Bogdanovich, chief executive officer of Downsound Entertainment and executive producer of Reggae Sumfest, wants to make Reggae Sumfest an international festival.
“I am very positive about the way forward; the festival should have not only a virtual global presence but a physical presence in countries around the world,” Bogdanovich told The Sunday Gleaner.
He said that the time has come to develop the festival beyond Jamaica, which has hosted the celebration of reggae and dancehall music since 1993 in the Second City on Montego Bay. “The time has come for us to expand our horizons. The reputation of the festival has penetrated entertainment markets across the globe where we have developed major fan bases,” he said.
Pointing to the benefits of the expansion, Bogdanovich said it will increase interest in Jamaica and tourism numbers. “Taking Reggae Sumfest physically global will further boost ‘Brand Jamaica’, as it will pique the interest of visitors to come to the Rock to experience it first-hand,” he said.
“Our team is ready for this challenge and will grow exponentially, especially in terms of its administration, operations, dealing with foreign crews and realising our potential to grow in responsibility and stature and to increase our income. We are ready to extend our experience and skills to present the biggest and baddest reggae/dancehall festival beyond the shores of Jamaica,” he said.
Launched in August 1993 by Summerfest Productions, Reggae Sumfest is the longest-running music festival in Jamaica.
In 2016, Joseph Bogdanovich and his Downsound Entertainment purchased the brand.
This year, the festival, which has evolved into a week of events, featured performances by Freddie McGregor, Minister Marion Hall, Teejay, Valiant and Tommy Lee.
