The Miramar Selecta Showdown, happening on Friday, February 16, will be the ultimate celebration of Dancehall Week and a thrilling precursor to the Afro Carib Festival happening the next day at the Miramar Amphitheater.
The event will take place at Shirley Branca Park, 6900 Miramar Parkway, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
Highlighting the event will be a riveting showcase as DJ Fergie, the defending champion from 2023, engages in a face-off against DJ Toots and DJ Shawty Redz. These esteemed DJs are set to deliver an enthralling experience, promising an electrifying atmosphere for all attendees.
Attendance to the Miramar Selecta Showdown is open to all, with complimentary registration accessible via MiramarSelectaShowdown24.eventbrite.com. Additionally, a variety of food and beverage options will be available for purchase during the event.
Dancehall Legend Award
The pinnacle of the evening will be the presentation of the inaugural DANCEHALL LEGEND AWARD to the illustrious Spragga Benz. Born Carlton Grant, Spragga Benz has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Dancehall and the broader music industry, earning him this prestigious accolade.
Vice Mayor Alexandra P. Davis, the esteemed host of the event, expressed her sentiments regarding Spragga Benz’s profound impact on the music world.
“Spragga Benz has not only influenced the dancehall genre but has also transcended borders and genres, making him a true icon. His music resonates with audiences worldwide, and he has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity and innovation. We are proud to honor him at the Miramar Selecta Showdown,” she said.
Spragga Benz’s musical journey traces back to the early ’90s, with his moniker evolving from “Spaghetti” to “Spragga,” a testament to his association with a prominent sound system. His distinctive vocal stylings served as a conduit between Jamaican music and international genres such as hip-hop, R&B, and Soca.
Throughout his illustrious career, Spragga Benz collaborated with renowned artists including Wyclef, KRS One, Nas, and Beenie Man, the King of Dancehall. Hits such as “Dolly House” underscored his dominance within the industry, with joint albums like “Two Badd DJs” paving the way for his acclaimed 2000 release, “Fully Loaded.”
Beyond his musical endeavors, Spragga Benz has also made significant contributions to the world of acting, starring in cult classics like “Shottas” and the 2022 thriller film “Second Chance.”
