Tony Rebel

Rebel Salute – The Preservation of Reggae

“There is only so much you can say in a song.”

TONY REBEL O.D, 2013

Every January in Jamaica, a special event takes place; a music event of its own kind that is dedicated to preserving reggae music … REBEL SALUTE. What makes Rebel Salute truly special is that it is held on January 15th of every year in celebration and commemoration of it’s founder and promoter, Patrick Barrett aka Tony Rebel O.D. It is one of Jamaica’s biggest music festivals, known for its focus on roots and conscious reggae music.

For the true lovers of Reggae music, Tony Rebel is an icon. He is revered as the pre-eminent musician of the reggae generation. Tony Rebel first emerged onto the music scene in 1984, winning the premier DJ competition in Manchester, Jamaica. He caught the attention of the crowd by incorporating a melodic style that bridged the gap between Reggae and Dancehall music. This style would eventually become know throughout the world as ‘Sing-Jaying’.

Tony Rebel’s contributions within the international and local music circles have not gone unnoticed. He is revered as a leader in Jamaica’s ‘Cultural Revolution’. Tony Rebel was awarded the Order of Distinction from the Government of Jamaica in 2002. The Order of Distinction is the sixth in order of precedence of the Orders of Societies of Honour in Jamaica.

Tony considers himself a philosopher, a motivator and an edutainer. Truly driven, the veteran performer wants to help others. As the producer behind the female reggae vocalist in the world, Queen Ifrica, Tony continues to evolve as a true Rebel with a cause. In June 2013, Tony Rebel was commissioned as a justice of the Peace, a title that he has fully embraced.

“This country has given a lot to me, the people have given me a lot, and I want to give back to the people of Jamaica.”

And Tony wears many hats too. Tony is the president and CEO of Organic H.E.A.R.T group of companies and a member of the entertainment board headed by PULSE models CEO Kingsley Cooper and Hon. Damion Crawford Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment. Tony is also the member of a think tank that examines the travel implications for musicians and artistes seeking
to perform overseas.

Rebel Salute 2016

Now in its 23rd year, Rebel Salute will take place on January 15th and 16th at Grizzly’s Plantation Cove in Priory, St. Ann, Jamaica. Opening night of Rebel Salute will feature the artist, Mykal Rose, Luciano, Richie Spice, The Congos, The Heptones, Christopher Martin, Tony Gregory, Bugle, Louie Culture, Tanto Metro and Devonte, Chezidek, Pluto Shervington and Ernie Smith (in tandem), Kelissa, Everton Blender, Jahmali, Gem Myers, Sanchez, L.U.S.T. and Tony Rebel.

The following night will include artist David Brooks (aka Mavado), Junior and Juju Reid, Half Pint, Queen Ifrica, The Abyssinians (featuring Bernard Collins), Ken Boothe, I-Octane, Turbulance, Andrew Tosh, Michigan, Pablo Moses, Ray Dawin, Macka B, Anthony Cruz, The Viceroys, Uprising Roots Band, Davianah, Paul Elliot, D Medz, Mackeehen, Electric Princess and Rahfi and the Rock Top Dancers have made the bill.

Irie Magazine invites you to come and experience the largest festival of its kind in the Caribbean… Tony’s REBEL SALUTE! See you on January 15, 2016! Respect!