David Rodigan, the flamboyant British broadcaster and sound system operator, will make what promoters say is a long-awaited appearance at Groovin In The Park. That event is scheduled for June 30 at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, New York.
Chris Roberts of Groovin Inc, said with reggae’s 50th anniversary being celebrated, it is fitting someone with Rodigan’s knowledge of the music be on this year’s show.
“He just celebrated 50 years of ska and reggae being in England with a mammoth event at the Royal Albert Hall (in London) that I am told was sold out in two days. This speaks to his popularity,” said Roberts. “The event was a celebration of the Jamaican culture that was packed with several special guests and surprises. There is always a possibility that he may be joined on stage by some of his friends that could include a singer, DJ or even another clash selector.”
That statement has prompted speculation Jamaican Disc Jockey Barrington “Barry G” Gordon may make a guest showing. He and Rodigan had a number of memorable sound system square-offs during the 1980s and are credited with introducing underground dancehall music to mainstream radio.
“Since we announced Rodigan, fans are pretty convinced that Barry will be at Groovin In The park 2019. The truth is that Barry is extremely popular in the Diaspora and you cannot talk about Rodigan’s 40 years in reggae and radio without mentioning Barry G, so their careers are inextricably linked. If he is available we would certainly love to include him in the presentation this year,” said Clem Hume, a Groovin Inc executive.
Beres Hammond, a popular act in New York, is also confirmed for ‘Groovin’.
First held in 2011, Groovin In The Park has become a staple on the New York music scene. Offering a mix of pop, reggae, dancehall and soca, it consistently attracts over 20,000 fans.
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