Lordamercy!

A rose-colored fantasy of the perfect vacation in the islands includes sun, sand, surf, and sweet music. The beautiful thing is, you don’t have to book a flight or borrow a boat to enjoy that kind of experience today. The International Caribbean Music Festival is touching down at scenic and lovely Virginia Key Beach Park, bringing a veritable who’s who of reggae and dancehall music to a place that was recently restored to its former glory. And what’s that? In light of the victory of Barack Obama, the first black president of the United States, the International Caribbean Music Festival has officially been renamed the Obama Fest? It’s on and poppin’, son! We’re jammin’ in the name of history!

Some of dancehall music’s most infamous characters are scheduled to appear — if the international travel visa gods are merciful. Notorious musical rivals Beenie Man and Bounty Killer are both in the lineup (although we wouldn’t hold our breaths for a duet anytime soon). Movado is set to menace the stage, and Spragga Benz, Sean Kingston, Da’Ville, and Mr. Vegas are sure to nice up the dance. For more conscious and old-school heads, Papa San will be there, the legendary Tony Rebel will surely perform “Fresh Vegetable,” and rising reggae music goddesses Etana and Queen Ifrica will bless the stage with beauty, talent, and uplifting vibrations. Be there or be a total loser. Gates open at noon; showtime is 3 p.m. Tickets cost $30.
Sun., Nov. 16, 2008