Benefit concert 'Reggae 4 Japan' has been rescheduled for June 5 at York College in Queens, New York.

Originally scheduled for April 21 Reggae 4 Japan, recently announced its star studded line-up with performances by the likes of Maxi Priest, Freddie McGregor and the Big Ship Family, Capleton, Tarrus Riley, Gramps Morgan, Peter Morgan, Alaine, Tanya Stephens, and Etana — backed by the Ruff Kutt band. Additional acts are still to be confirmed. The concert is being organised by Japanese sound Mighty Crown, their management team Irish and Chin, with VP Records, media partner IrieJam Radio and Japanese corporate sponsors Nine Rulaz Line, Woofin' Magazine, Yokohama Trading, 24x7 Records, Rockers Island and Nesta Clothing.

close friends in Japan

According to the release, the concert had to be pushed back to accommodate other artistes who wished to show their support. In the release, Maxi Priest commented, "Japan is like home and family, as I have been going to Japan since the mid-80s ... I have a lot of close friends in Japan and know people who are directly affected by the disaster. Japan has done a lot for the reggae industry, so I am unquestionably involved with Reggae 4 Japan because of my connection and for the sheer love of humanity."

Co-owner of Mighty Crown, Masta Simon, added, "In this life, it's all about helping each other ... when one is in trouble — you reach out and help. I am forever grateful for the support of the reggae community in this effort ... with such a great need for relief in Japan, I am calling out to all people to help. Regardless of one's connection to Japan — be it reggae music, electronics, automotive, fashion, etc. — I am calling on everyone to come out and support."

Japan experienced a massive earthquake on March 11, which resulted in a tsunami, nuclear power-plant explosions and partial meltdown, aftershocks and subsequent earthquakes in April. Since then, Mighty Crown has been dedicated to converging the reggae music industry to support Japan.

Proceeds from Reggae 4 Japan will be donated to the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami Relief.