Rebel Salute’s debut show in the United States, scheduled for September 28 at Miramar Regional Park in South Florida, has been postponed until April 26, 2026.
Organisers of the event cited the threat of severe weather as their reason for the postponement.
Tony Rebel, the show’s founder; Maxi Priest; Mykal Rose; Mikey Spice; Louie Culture; LUST; and Chalice were expected to perform.
Queen Ifrica, who was billed as one of the headliners, withdrew from the show three days earlier. The roots artiste said in a statement that this was “due to terms of her agreement not being met”.
In a statement released on September 27, Tony Rebel stated that the safety of patrons was taken into consideration, hence the postponement.
“This is not a cancellation, it’s a commitment to our fans, our artistes, and our legacy. Rebel Salute has never compromised on quality or care, and this decision reflects the same spirit that has guided us over three decades,” he said.
Miramar Regional Park is the traditional home for the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, which takes place on November 9. That event, a showcase of Jamaican cuisine and music, consistently attracts a large crowd.
The inaugural Rebel Salute was held on January 15 1994, Tony Rebel’s birthday. It took place at Fayors Entertainment Complex in his home parish of Manchester.
That show was headlined by his close friend, singer Garnet Silk, who was also from Manchester.
Rebel Salute, now held in St Ann, is one of the leading roots-reggae festivals in the world.
— Howard Campbell