Reggae Sumfest is a family affair for Boston clan

Tracey Rutherford's love affair with the Jamaican music started in the 70s with Bob Marley, while her daughter Shantel came years later, and has love for Andrae 'Popccaan' Sutherland.

Continuing the family tradition, Rutherford's granddaughter Elissa Patterson chose the conscious one, Windel 'Gyptian' Edwards, as her reggae idol. The women from Boston, Massachusetts, in the US, made their way to Jamaica for the first time to experience the rich cultural heritage that the island has become known for, making their official debut at Reggae Sumfest 2023. The 30th staging was where they wanted to embrace the richness of the music, and the Sumfest Street Dance at the Old Hospital Park on Monday night was the perfect maiden affair.

"Everyone should come to the festival. It is about the culture," said Rutherford, who admits to usually being in bed by 8 p.m. "This was important to us, so I decided I would have to stay up." Rutherford said she has been listening to reggae all her life, and she has in turn influenced the second and third generations in her family.

Choosing an Airbnb, instead of a resort, the trio said they wanted an opportunity to embrace the community and be with the locals, while celebrating a music that reaches their souls.

"It puts me in a good mood," said Shantel.

"It just makes you wanna dance. You can put it on for every mood and just go with it," added Patterson. The women are simply anticipating a memorable time, infused with the tremendous love and affection that Jamaicans have become known for. Their friend Michael Gordon was their chaperone for the evening, and said his aim was to ensure they enjoyed the best of what Jamaica has to offer.

Reggae Sumfest kicked off on Sunday with a family fun day. Last night (Tuesday), revellers turned out at Pier One for the 'All White' affair. Tonight, the new Harbour City Mall will be the spotlight for 'Blitz', while the Global Sound Clash, with Bass Odyssey, Dynamo, Jah Works, Code Red and the Magnum clash winner will again take control of the Pier One Car Park.

On Friday and Saturday, the excitement moves to the Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre for the live shows.