From left: The Digicel hostees Latoya Gregg, Madelaine Rojas, Bernadine Christie and Clardiann Berry pose during Reggae Sumfest launch held at Devon House on Wednesday night. - Winston Sill

Reggae Sumfest gave persons a taste of what to expect for their 19th staging at the launch held at Devon House on Wednesday night.

Set to take place from July 17 - July 23 in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay, the Sumfest promoters gave patrons a touch of what is to come.

Performances came from the likes of Tifa who did a rendition of Bob Marley's I Wanna Love You in recognition of Digicel's theme 'Inspired by Legends'. The young diva then went on to Move Yuh Body and her verse from We Are Swaggin before making way for I-Octane. Octane got a huge response from the audience as he did pieces of his popular songs. He too soon went to reggae doing the title track from his upcoming album Crying For the Nation.

Before I-Octane, Konshens kept it real with songs like Represent and Talk Bout Me. Denyque sang Hooked On Me and newcomer Iba Mahr started off the show with a cultural vibe.

extravagant affair

The launch was an extravagant affair as persons mingled and enjoyed themselves to the music being played before the actual proceedings began. Pepsi's Carlo Redwood spoke about how proud the brand was to be involved in Reggae Sumfest as their first exclusive deal with the show as the non-alcoholic provider.

A representative from Iberostar commented that they were the first hotel to be the diamond sponsor for the festival while Red Stripe's Safia Cooper discussed the energy the brand would be bringing to Sumfest this year.

Executive director of Summerfest Productions, organisers of Reggae Sumfest, Johnny Gourzong, showcased a video looking back at last year's successful staging and a little of what persons could expect this year. Gourzong said that they are honoured to welcome the likes of R&B stalwart R Kelly and rap diva Nicki Minaj. They are also honoured, he said, to be paying tribute to the likes of Beres Hammond, who first performed at Sumfest in 1994. Also being honoured is Gregory Isaacs and ET Webster.

Digicel brought out dancers to spice up their segment as they looked at dances from the past and present. After thanks from Summerfest Production's Robert Russell and closing remarks from host Miss Kitty, persons mingled some more, building up their vibe for Sumfest.

Entertainer Protege (left) chats with Brand Manager for Red Stripe, Safia Cooper, during the launch of Reggae Sumfest on Wednesday at Devon House. - Contributed

Carlo Redwood (right), head of marketing for Pepsi, gets a hug from entertainer Denique at the launch of Reggae Sumfest on Wednesday at Devon House. - Contributed