The 16th Annual Peoples’ Festival, a Tribute to Bob Marley, will rock Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park noon to 10 p.m. on July 31.
This year’s theme celebrates the roots of Marley’s music. International artists as well as local music icons are charged with the task.
The lineup reflects the predecessors of authentic reggae, like ska (a style of fast popular music having a strong offbeat and originating in Jamaica in the 1960s) and jazz.
Locals know this gig as the Bob Marley Fest. Staffers offer food and drink, crafts, a Children’s Village, a bamboo rain hut and a healing garden. All are invited to join the Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble for a drum circle at noon.
Here’s the lineup. (Times are TBA.)
Midnite, a Reggae band with a firm foundation in Jah Rastafari
Taj Weekes, a well-known lyricist accompanied by the band Adowa
The Skatalites, a premier ska band from Jamaica
Xande Cruz, a band with Brazilian roots
Kirk Joseph, known as the “master of the sousafunk.” That means he plays sousaphone with soul.
The Welfare Poets, a group that manages to fuse Hip Hop with styles from the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico, Cuba and Jamaica. Not so easy to do.
King Chango, a Mexican-influenced rock band. Huh? Don’t question it. Just listen.
Spokey Speakey, a four-piece reggae band from Wilmington.
Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble, a group that artfully and enthusiastically celebrates African culture
Contact info: peoplesfestival.com, or 575-9462.
