Irie Jam Radio hosted the Oracabessa Bliss Festival at the Pennysaver Amphitheater in Farmingville, NY. Celebrating their 25th anniversary, and the festival did not disappoint, with an incredible line up of legendary artists.
A new venue for the Oracabessa Bliss Festival, the Pennysaver Amphitheater boasts over 3,000 seats, providing plenty of space for vendors and festival goers alike. The venue was transformed into an island oasis as festival goers were greeted with the soulful sounds of reggae and large selection of Caribbean cuisine. Dressed in all white, many strolled through the festival’s mini market to grab a bite to eat and flag to wave before enjoying the show.
Master of Ceremonies, Majah Hype, lived up to his name, “hyping up” the crowd before each artist took the stage. The comedian interacted well with the audience, in typical Majah Hype fashion. His lighthearted humor had many in the crowd laughing and put smiles on several faces.
Though many Reggae and Dancehall artists performed, including Nesbeth, Mikey Spice and Agent Sasco. Dressed in a black suit and silver studded combat boots, Tanya Stephens was the first to get the audience on their feet singing a slew of her favorites like “It’s a Pity.” During her performance, she spoke many times about female empowerment to which the female-dominated audience reacted positively to. However, she did not leave the men out of the conversation. She encouraged women to give the good men out there a chance, saying that nice guys should not finish last.
Cocoa Tea was another stand out performer at the festival. He graced the stage in an all white with red, green and yellow necklace, bracelet, and belt. Though performing for over three decades Cocoa Tea, has yet to slow down. He came to the stage with incredible energy, interacting with the fans, and singing his greatest hits. Cocoa Tea also gave a tribute to Gregory Issacs and sang a few of his fan’s favorites as well.
Last to perform was reggae great Yellowman. Though this year’s festival was an all-white affair, Yellowman wore an all black Adidas ensemble and a beaded necklace with the Jamaican flag as the centerpiece. The energy he burst on to the stage with was unmatched as he ran and jumped up and down to his music getting the audience to do the same. Yellowman had a special guest join him on stage, his daughter Kareema Foster. Watching father and daughter perform together appeared to warm the hearts of the audience.
Mikey Spice
Agent Sasco
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