Grammy Award-winning artist Shaggy will headline a major benefit concert aimed at supporting Jamaica’s recovery from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The event, part of the “I Love Jamaica” Concert Series, will take place on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the UBS Arena in New York.
The initiative has been officially endorsed by the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) through the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (MCGES) and is being organized by Jamaica Strong NY Inc. in collaboration with Jammins Entertainment, The Irie Jam Foundation, RoadBlock Radio, and other partners. UBS Arena has signed on as a major sponsor.
The benefit concert aims to mobilize critical resources for national recovery and rebuilding efforts following the hurricane, which caused catastrophic damage across several parishes.
“Jamaica’s culture has always been a source of strength, pride, and global influence,” said The Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport. “In times of crisis, it becomes a unifying force. The ‘I Love Jamaica’ concert reminds us that even from afar, our people and our friends around the world can come together to rebuild lives and restore hope.”
All proceeds from the concert will go directly to the Government of Jamaica’s official Hurricane Relief Fund, supporting families, students, and communities across the hardest-hit parishes. Organizers have pledged transparency and accountability to ensure every dollar raised benefits those most in need.
“For 32 years, Irie Jam has stood as a voice for our culture, our struggles, and our triumphs. In this moment of national pain, we are called once again to serve,” said Bobby Clarke, President & CEO of Irie Jam Radio. “This is more than a concert. It is Jamaica’s global family rising as one. When we combine the force of our music with the strength of our diaspora, there is no disaster we cannot overcome.”
The concert will feature performances from Shaggy and other top-tier Jamaican and international artists, along with community leaders and surprise guests.
“When ‘Mr. Boombastic’ Shaggy and friends take the stage at UBS Arena, he’ll be carrying the heartbeat of a Jamaica that will rise again — because we cannot be broken,” said Kacy Rankine, CEO of RoadblockRadio.com / WCBS 101.1 FM HD3. “Hurricane Melissa tore through St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St. James, Hanover and other parishes, but it never touched our resolve. Jamaica Strong’s ‘I Love Jamaica’ Concert is a lifeline for families fighting to rebuild. Roadblock will rally the diaspora as we turn this moment into hope, healing, and action.”
The “I Love Jamaica” Concert Series is a global fundraising and cultural platform designed to celebrate Jamaica’s enduring spirit while rallying support in times of national need. Organizers expect thousands of patrons and viewers worldwide to join in solidarity for a night of healing, pride, and unbreakable spirit.
