Sumfest as it is called locally in Jamaica was started on August 11, 1993. The festival is held each year in the summer month of July. It was started after the long running “Reggae Sun-splash” pulled the plug from Montego Bay and moved to Och Rios. Now more than just your traditional show, it represents Jamaica and the Jamaican brand. It is a grand showcase of music, Jamaican tradition, and some of the greatest set of musicians in the world.
After being initially included in the lineup to perform, Tarrus Riley‘s management team has indicated that their artist has had to pull out from the event. It is reported by Riley’s team that Reggae Sumfest failed to honour certain obligations forcing the artist to pull out.
Sumfest organiser Joe Bogdanovich, is adamant that he has not broken any contractual agreements. “I don’t break contracts, I honour them,†Bogdanovich is quoted to have said.
The Downsound Entertainment CEO, refused to elaborate on the reason for the breakdown, which has seen Riley ejecting himself from the festival for which he has been heavily advertised. Tarrus Riley and his team have worked well with Bogdanovich and the Sumfest team in the past without any issues so this breakdown is very surprising.
“I have done periodic work with Tarrus and it has always been very good and productive. All I will say is that I wish them all the best,†Bogdanovich said.
In a press release, Riley’s management team specifically stated Tarrus pulling out of Reggae Sumfest had “nothing to do with moneyâ€. But did not explain specifics as to what contractual obligations had not been honoured by the Reggae Sumfest organisers.
“We regrettably announce that Tarrus Riley will not be at Reggae Sumfest 2019, due to failure of the festival honouring their obligations as agreed upon by both parties. We want to make clear that this has nothing to do with money, but everything to do with honouring and upholding an agreement which plays a vital role in elevating Jamaican music and a brand after so many years of hard work,†the release said in part.
After not being included Romain Virgo has been given the nod and will feature in the line up now.