Spragga excited to perform on local soil again

For more than three decades, Spragga Benz has remained one of dancehall’s most respected voices, building a catalogue that has transcended generations while continuously evolving with the music and the culture.

On Jamaica’s 64th Independence Day, the veteran deejay will once again remind audiences why his music continues to resonate when he headlines Rise and Toast, the opening event of Best Weekend Ever, on August 6 at Plantation Cove, St Ann. His performance will set the tone for the five-day destination festival, which has become one of the Caribbean’s premier Independence celebrations, blending music, travel and entertainment into an experience that attracts patrons from Jamaica and across the diaspora.

Although Spragga Benz has not made many local appearances recently, he said fans can expect the same energy and authenticity that have defined his career.

“I’m always about giving my fans the best of my catalogue and me. Energy and happy music… maybe a few new songs as well,” he said.

His appearance comes at an exciting point in his career, with new music already on the horizon. The deejay confirmed that he is preparing to release Endeavors 2.0, an expanded version of his acclaimed project, featuring collaborations with Sean Paul, JC Lodge, Echo Minott and several other artistes. He also shared that the first single from the project will be released this month.

Even after more than 30 years in the business, Spragga Benz believes growth remains essential to longevity.

“I continue to grow with my fans and deliver music that reflects my personal development and growth. We can’t stay the same; life is about change and so that is reflected in my music as well.”

That philosophy has allowed him to remain relevant through every era of Jamaican entertainment; from the dominance of sound systems and traditional stage shows to today’s destination festivals that combine music with lifestyle experiences.

Yet, despite the evolution of the industry, he says one thing has remained constant: his commitment to delivering memorable live performances.

“It doesn’t change my performance. It’s just a joy to see entertainment still incorporating live performances and honouring ‘old skool’ as well as new era vibes.”

His inclusion on the Rise and Toast line-up is fitting. The brunch event, known for its high-energy atmosphere and celebration of Jamaican culture, launches Best Weekend Ever on the nation’s birthday with a distinctly dancehall flavour, before the festival transitions into its signature mix of soca, premium nightlife and beach experiences over the following days.

For festival organisers, bringing a cultural icon like Spragga Benz to open the celebrations reinforces the festival’s commitment to showcasing Jamaican excellence while creating memorable experiences for both local and international visitors.

Performing on Independence Day, Spragga Benz noted that his personal opinion is that “Jamaica is not yet independent in the true sense of the word… but that’s for another story,” he said.