Shaggy - Shaggy And Lee Scratch Perry To Play Respect Jamaica 50

Shaggy And Lee Scratch Perry To Play Respect Jamaica 50

Shaggy, Damian Marley, Lee Scratch Perry and Jimmy Cliff will all celebrate 50 years of Jamaican independence in London.

A host of reggae, dub and pop stars from the island nation will play at The O2 venue in London as part of the Respect Jamaica 50 Celebration of half century since their homeland was granted independence from the UK.

The two week long festival will run from July 25 to August 6 and include dozens of Jamaican artists, as well as club nights and traditional food. It also coincides with the exhibition 'Messenger: The Bob Marley Exhibition' at the British Music Experience (BME), a celebration of the most famous artist to come out of Jamaica, who died in 1981.

Bob's youngest son, reggae artist Damian, will play at the festival, delivering a set blending dancehall and reggae.

'You Can Get it if You Really Want' singer Jimmy will also be part of the festivities, which are supported by the Jamaican government.

Director of the Jamaica 50 Secretariat, Robert Bryan said: ''The Jamaica 50 Secretariat recognises this as an official celebratory event of Jamaica's Jubilee celebrations and is delighted that such an outstanding line-up can be made available during the London 2012 games, when we expect even more great Jamaican moments.

''Jamaica House, located in the 02 during the Olympic Games, will also be showcasing and providing an authentic Jamaican experience in honour of this special year.''

Other acts confirmed to perform include Toots & The Maytals, Horace Andy, Raging Fyah, Yellowman, Benjamin Zephaniah, U-Roy, The Abyssinians, Winston Reedy, Mad Professor, Mighty Diamonds, Maxi Priest and Gyptian.

For tickets or more information please visit www.respectjamaica50.co.uk