In the heart of St. Petersburg, Florida, where the sun-drenched shores meet the rhythmic beats of reggae, Reggae Rise Up once again unfolded its musical tapestry at Vinoy Park this past weekend. As the founder Vaughn Carrick and Live Nite Events’ Joey Traum orchestrated this melodic gathering, they faced the perennial challenge of surpassing the lofty standards set by previous editions. A challenge that, against the odds, they met and exceeded with this year’s lineup, pulling in over 15,000 enthusiasts into the warmth of good vibes and even better music.
The reggae aficionados, who flocked from all corners of the globe, were treated to a lineup that seamlessly blended the traditional with the contemporary. Two-time Grammy Award-winner Shaggy, rightfully stealing the limelight, delivered a performance that could have easily earned him a headlining spot. The roots reggae charm of Steel Pulse and the soulful tunes of Protoje brought an authentic touch to the coastal atmosphere.
Reggae Rise Up has not just become a festival; it’s an annual ritual for St. Petersburg since its inauguration in 2015. Beyond the musical odyssey, the festival serves as a canvas for artists and a global congregation point for music lovers from Japan, Australia, India, and beyond. The Floridian crowd, though dominant, shared the revelry with those seeking a respite from colder climes, making this a true celebration of international reggae culture.
Parking and transportation have perennially been a logistical challenge for attendees, a testament to the festival’s soaring popularity. Navigating the limited parking options around the oceanfront entrance required a degree of luck or a reliance on rideshare services, even if that meant dealing with surge pricing. Yet, despite these hurdles, the allure of Reggae Rise Up remained irresistible, drawing in the masses eager to kick off summer in style.
Security, a contentious issue at many festivals, was seamlessly managed. Thorough bag checks and mandatory metal detector walkthroughs set the tone for a secure yet welcoming environment. The ID check at the entrance, accompanied by the hassle-free distribution of bracelets for those over 21, streamlined the process of acquiring beverages. It’s these meticulous touches that contribute to the festival’s consistent success.
The festival’s two stages provided a dynamic experience for fans. From the larger stage’s spectacular lighting and sound that engulfed the audience, to the intimate smaller stage, where bands like Bumpin’ Uglies, The Hip Abduction, and Seranation provided up-close encounters with their craft, Reggae Rise Up showcased a spectrum of musical excellence.
Each day unfolded like a chapter in a reggae novel. Friday, blessed with clear skies and sunshine, featured standout performances from Rebelution, Soja, Steel Pulse, The Green, and the mesmerizing Sensi Trails. Saturday, the busiest of the three days, offered a diverse lineup, from the energetic Tropedelic to the spirited sets of Seranation and Artikal Sound System. The headliner, Slightly Stoopid, brought the crowd to its feet, though the somewhat dimly lit stage failed to capitalize on the spectacular lighting setup.
The final day, slightly clouded but still scorching, saw the likes of Shaggy delivering a standout performance, and Tribal Seeds engaging the crowd with infectious energy. The festival’s grand finale featured performances by Tribe of 1, Surfer Girl, Tunnel Vision, Brother Ali, The Hip Abduction, Tribal Seeds, Pepper, and Iration.
As the sun sets on Reggae Rise Up 2022, the festival’s consistent success hints at an even more promising future. Live Nite Events has mastered the art of curating a weekend filled with music, food, drinks, and art, leaving attendees already yearning for the return to Vinoy Park next year. Reggae Rise Up has transcended the realm of a mere event; it’s a tradition, a sanctuary for the lovers of irie vibes, and a testament to the enduring power of reggae culture. Until next year, the rhythm echoes on.
