3rd Friday Reggae w/ Yellowman and Rik Jam

Jamaica's first dancehall superstar, Yellowman ushered in a new era in reggae music following Bob Marley's death. His early-'80s success brought the popularity of toasting -- the reggae equivalent of rapping -- to a whole new level, and helped establish dancehall as the wave of the future. For better or for worse, he also epitomized dancehall's penchant for "slack" lyrics -- that is, casual violence, sexism, homophobia, and general rudeness. Graphic sexuality was his particular forte, reaching levels of explicitness previously unheard in Jamaica. It brought him numerous detractors, but it was also a big reason for his early popularity. There was more to it than that, though; Yellowman was one of the most verbally nimble toasters of his time, with a loose, easy flow, a talent for improvisation, and a definite wit in his wordplay. Plus, all the boasting about his prowess on the mic or in the bedroom had to be over the top to be convincing: true to his stage name, Yellowman is an albino, which carries a tremendous social stigma in Jamaica. His rise to stardom was unlikely enough, but his transformation from untouchable outcast into sex symbol was staggering -- and may not even have taken place without his trademark lewdness. Shocking though it could be, it affirmed him as a sexual being just like his listeners, and was delivered with enough humor to let the audience know that he didn't take himself too seriously. Bouts with cancer pushed him into more thoughtful, socially conscious territory in the 1990s, but his initial style remains the most influential, paving the way for countless dancehall toasters to follow. He remained quiet through most of the 2000s before mounting a comeback with 2019's No More War.

Rik Jam, born Ronaldo Ricketts, is a reggae luminary whose musical journey is rooted in the vibrant community of Fletcher’s Land,Kingston, jamaica. Raised in this close-knit environment, Rik Jam spent the formative years of his childhood immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of his surroundings.

The trajectory of Rik Jam's life took a significant turn after the passing of his mother, prompting a move to Stadium Gardens, where he currently resides with his father. This transition brought about challenges, but music emerged as a powerful source of solace, resilience, and self-expression.

Discovering his love for music at the age of 8, Rik Jam actively engaged in singing activities at the local church. The early seeds of his passion blossomed into a profound commitment to the art during his teenage years. At 15, while attending St. Andrew Technical High School, he made a pivotal decision to join the school choir, setting the stage for his musical odyssey.

Through various rehearsals and live performances, Rik Jam's musical prowess became evident, and he soon recognized that music was not just a hobby but his life's calling. His voice became a vessel for emotions, and he aimed to create music that transcended mere words, resonating deeply with his audience.

Setting himself apart in the early stages of his career, Rik Jam dedicated himself to singing clean, positive lyrics. He understood the transformative power of music, believing that it could keep individuals focused and imbue them with positive energy.

For Rik Jam, music is more than a vocation; it's a gateway to happiness and a fundamental element for his proper functioning. His journey continues to unfold as he shares his authentic, uplifting sound with audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the reggae landscape.

Limited early bird advance tickets on Eventbrite, $TBD cover available at door until all tables and time are sold out.

• We recommend using ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft to save on parking fees.
• Swabbies is an outdoor riverfront yard venue, please wear appropriate shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• ABC law prohibit THC and CBD smoke or ingested product use on licensed property premise, please respect venue rules.

Admission is free for children age 16 and under with paid responsible adult.

"First Come, First Serve” Policy

Purchasing an Eventbrite ticket guarantees entry to event in case of a sell out. In advance does not guarantee parking, seating or express entry to any live music event at Swabbies. More than one band per day may/will be playing, tickets will be specific for band and times.

We advise early arrival for best seating and service times during possible sold-out events/standing room, etc. Expected food and service times during peak can be up to an hour. Again early arrival is suggested.

Refund Policy

Swabbies event tickets purchased at Eventbrite are non-refundable, with the following exceptions:

• Event cancelled due to weather: In the event of weather-related cancellation, Swabbies will EITHER refund the full purchase price and the service fee paid on the purchase, OR if the event is rescheduled for a later date, tickets will be honored at that time.
• Event cancelled due to Artist cancellation: In the event of an Artist-related cancellation due to illness or other unforeseen emergency, Swabbies will EITHER refund full ticket price and the service fee paid on purchase OR if the event is rescheduled for a later date, tickets will be honored at that time.

NO REFUNDS unless show is canceled.

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