This year’s Reggae Genealogy Concert celebrates three towering figures in Jamaican music—Wayne Wonder, Inner Circle, and Donovan Germain—whose contributions have profoundly shaped reggae and dancehall while elevating Jamaican culture on the global stage. The 2nd Annual Reggae Genealogy Concert, produced by Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, will take place on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at the northeast parking lot of Broward Mall in Plantation, Florida.
Running from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the event promises an immersive journey into Jamaica’s musical history, from the roots of mento and ska to the modern sounds of reggae and dancehall. Attendees will also experience how Jamaican music has influenced global genres like reggaeton, Afrobeats, and EDM. A key highlight of the evening will be the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards to these three legends.
Lifetime Achievement Honorees
Wayne Wonder
Born Wayne Charles in Buff Bay, Portland, Wayne Wonder began his journey to stardom singing in Sunday school and honing his songwriting skills by age 13. Early hits produced by reggae icons King Tubby and Lloyd Dennis laid the foundation for his career. However, his true breakthrough came when he teamed up with Dave Kelly at Penthouse Studios, delivering timeless classics like “Saddest Day” and “Bonafide Love (Movie Star)” with Buju Banton.
In 2003, Wonder achieved global recognition with “No Letting Go,” a reggae-R&B fusion that peaked at No. 11 on the US charts and No. 3 in the UK. Over three decades into his career, Wayne Wonder remains a vital figure in reggae, seamlessly blending traditional elements with contemporary influences.
Inner Circle
Known as “The Bad Boys of Reggae,” Inner Circle has been a cornerstone of Jamaican music since their formation in Kingston in 1968. Founded by brothers Ian and Roger Lewis, the band gained prominence backing Jacob Miller, whose hits like “Tenement Yard” and “Everything Is Great” established them as a force in the 1970s.
Despite the tragic death of Miller in 1980, the band reinvented itself in Miami, achieving global acclaim with the Grammy-winning album Bad Boys and chart-topping singles like “Sweat (A La La La La Long)” and “Bad Boys.” The latter became synonymous with the TV show COPS and the Bad Boys film franchise. With a career spanning five decades, Inner Circle continues to innovate, collaborating with reggae legends and rising stars alike.
Donovan Germain
Donovan Germain has been a pivotal figure in the evolution of reggae. From his early career in New York to founding Penthouse Studio in Kingston, Germain’s work has been instrumental in defining reggae’s digital era. He has produced chart-topping hits for icons like Freddie McGregor, Marcia Griffiths, Beres Hammond, and Buju Banton, whose unparalleled success owes much to Germain’s expertise.
Penthouse Studio became a hub for groundbreaking music in roots reggae, lovers rock, and dancehall. Germain’s dedication to excellence earned him prestigious accolades, including Jamaica’s Order of Distinction and the Musgrave Medal. His influence has been instrumental in bringing Jamaican music to the global stage.
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Awards honor not just their individual accomplishments but their collective impact on the worldwide recognition of Jamaican music and culture.
Event Highlights
The evening will feature live performances by legendary artists Ernie Smith and Eric “Monty” Morris, alongside contemporary acts like Shuga and Walshy Fire. Narrated segments will guide the audience through Jamaica’s rich musical evolution, creating an experience that is both educational and entertaining.
Gates open at 4:00 p.m., with performances beginning at 6:00 p.m. Attendees can enjoy food, shopping, and free museum tours before the concert. Tickets range from $25 for early purchases to $75 for VIP packages.
Photo Provided by Reggae Genealogy Concert
