Renowned reggae singer Richie Stephens is today flashing an ear-to-ear smile after landing his first-ever interview on urban station FOX TV New York on Tuesday, where he spoke passionately about visiting Westmoreland—ravaged by Hurricane Melissa—and about his upcoming performance at the Jamaica Strong benefit concert on December 12 at UBS Arena in New York.
Stephens, one of the most visible voices advocating for hurricane relief efforts following the storm’s devastating impact, used the mainstream platform to call for unity, compassion, and sustained support for the people of Jamaica.
“Let me just say thank you to each and every one worldwide who has supported Jamaica,” Stephens told FOX TV hosts. “This concert… every ticket is a support. We’ve been hit very badly by Hurricane Melissa. The rebuilding process is not going to be easy… so we’re asking everyone to support and let’s rebuild Jamaica together.”
The Jamaica Strong concert, organized by Jammins Events, the Irie Jam Foundation, and RoadBlock Radio, will feature an all-star Jamaican and Caribbean lineup including Shaggy, Sean Paul, Kes, Inner Circle, Chronic Law, TeeJay, Marcia Griffiths, Tessanne Chin, and Stephens himself. The artists will perform at UBS Arena on Long Island in what organizers describe as a historic night of culture, solidarity, and purpose.
During the FOX TV segment, Stephens spoke emotionally about returning to western Jamaica and witnessing the destruction firsthand.
“Westmoreland, where I was born and grew up, was hit hard,” he said. “I’ve been down there with food supplies and medical supplies… and to be on the ground is different from what you see on TV. Some places where houses used to stand, the entire house is gone. Entire communities are wiped out.”
He noted that performing at a concert with such a mission feels unlike any other show.
“We’re using our influence in a positive way,” Stephens said. “Some people who probably have never been to my concert are now calling me wanting to support. That alone is moving.”
Event co-organizer and Irie Jam Foundation COO Syntyche “Syn” Clarke praised Stephens’ national media moment, calling it a significant boost for the benefit initiative.
“The unity that has emerged post-Hurricane Melissa is powerful,” Clarke said. “Richie is helping to amplify the message that this concert is music with a purpose. Even if you can’t attend, buying a ticket becomes a donation.”
Clarke added that artists responded immediately when asked to join the cause.
“They all said yes without hesitation. First call,” she said. “This is a marathon, not a sprint, and we need everyone.”
Stephens closed the interview by urging the tri-state diaspora to show up on December 12.
“Jamaica has given so much love to New York over the years through our music, sports, and culture. Now is the time for New York to give that love back.”
Richie Stephens’ catalog has defined generations, from “Winner,” “Take Me Away,” “Fight Back,” and “Trying to Get Next to You,” to “Buff Baff,” “Status of a Fool,” and his latest hit, “Hurricane,” which blends reggae with the infectious energy of dancehall.
The Jamaica Strong benefit concert takes place tomorrow, Friday, December 12, at UBS Arena, with proceeds going directly toward long-term recovery efforts in Jamaica.
