By: Mutabaruka
Every year between July and August, Reggae artistes from all over the world are booked to take part in the many Reggae festivals which occur in almost every continent. Reggae is usually the main feature in a lot of festivals along with other genres of music.
This book, Reggae Sunsplash 1978 - 1998, compiled by "Java" a brethren with who I have had a long acquaintance {Best known for his annual Reggae Calendar which comprises dates of all the major black cultural events, black leaders birthdays, and reggae artistes} has given us insight, both historically and chronologically into the greatest and first reggae festival, REGGAE SUNSPLASH, which is the mother and father of all Reggae festivals.
The festival started in the late 70's, being extended to include other international market places. As an artiste myself, I remember the first time I went to Japan, I was on a Sunsplash tour. We also toured the U.S. in the 80's.
Java has put together a book that, without doubt, has the most comprehensive insight into any reggae festival. His details on artistes participation, venues and even admission fees is extraordinary. I can't help but take note of the then fee of J$3, compared to J$3,000, at later concerts. Such fees are charged now for Reggae events in Jamaica.
This book serves as a testimony to the wonderful work that has been done to further expose and popularize this now acclaimed international music called Reggae, by men who spent their lives and energy, pushing a vision that we can all be proud to say, "Job Well Done."
Java's book will serve as a reference guide; a book to review; see what others have done and what we can do to best serve and preserve this musical heritage.
Too many times our memories are clouded by what we think happened and what we hoped had happened. All of this is written down and recorded as history from the individual perspective. This book makes use of data garnered from posters, interviews with innovators and years of first hand experience.
Java, with his camera and pen, has truly captured one of, if not, the greatest event in Jamaica’s musical history, REGGAE SUNSPLASH.
Java Immanuel-I
Java Immanuel-I, has given his readers an inside view of the evolution of Reggae Sunsplash, the most successful reggae festival, its struggles and its failure.
Java's vision began during his years of study at the Community College of Philadelphia. There he became very active in Caribbean activities on campus. After graduating with an Associate Degree in Applied Science, he went on to obtain his Bachelor of Arts in Radio Television and Film from Temple University, Philadelphia.
During and after his studies at Temple University, Java worked at Temple University's radio station, 90.1 FM, as a Jazz announcer, news reporter, and production director. This station reached listeners not only in Pennsylvania, but also in New Jersey and Delaware. But his most significant work at 90.1 FM was when he launched the first Caribbean radio programme in Philadelphia. His programme, Caribbe, was well received, and was on the air for fifteen years.
During Java's tenure at 90.1 FM he interviewed such international reggae artistes as, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, and many other reggae stalwarts. He was also instrumental in hosting a special “Welcome Party” for Bob Marley & the Wailers at the Impulse Night Club, in Philadelphia, and other major Caribbean activities. In 1990, he was Sunlight Production Man of the Year, in recognition of his contribution in the development and promotion of Caribbean music and culture in Philadelphia. Also, he was the 105th Penn Relays Team Jamaica Bickle 1999 Honoree.
In 1981, Java was publishing a Philadelphia Caribbean newspaper called Caribbe, that was featured monthly. Also, he was the founder and publisher of the first Reggae Calendar. This calendar rolled off the press for eighteen years. These two ventures were accomplished under the umbrella of his nonprofit organization, Caribbe. This organization was founded in 1980, and still remain active.
Java's latest work, “Reggae Sunsplash, 1978 - 1998”, is a comprehensive book on the history of Reggae Sunsplash.
