KINGSTON, Jamaica — Reggae artist Jah Bouks is dramatically expanding his annual Angola Festival into a landmark cultural celebration, scheduled for December 31st at Angola Restaurant in Old Pera, St Thomas. The transformation positions the event as a significant addition to Jamaica’s entertainment calendar, featuring headline performances by Capleton, Jamal, and Jah Bouks himself.
In an exclusive statement, Jah Bouks revealed his ambitious vision: “I envision this becoming Jamaica’s premier festival, and I’m confident we can achieve this transformation authentically.” The lineup includes prominent artists Stalk Ashley, Shane O, Eddy G Bomba, Moyann, Nation Boss, Short Ghad, Quick Cook, Macka Diamond, Predator, Seventeen, Bushman, Bascom X, and Money Pallet.
The festival’s branding derives from Jah Bouks’ massively successful track “Call Angola,” released over ten years ago. The artist has strategically built his business ventures around this recognizable identity. “I’ve committed to branding all my business endeavors under the Angola name because of the track’s monumental impact. This festival represents the culmination of that vision,” he explained.
This year’s event carries poignant significance as it marks the first celebration since the passing of Jah Bouks’ mother, Zyon Panton, earlier this year. The artist expressed that while his mother had passionately supported the festival’s development and had envisioned parallel events in Ghana, the Jamaican edition will honor her legacy through its expanded scale and cultural importance.
Originally conceived as a modest party, the Angola Festival has evolved into a major cultural happening at a time when many live events have scaled back. Jah Bouks emphasized his continuous effort to elevate the event: “Each year I’ve intentionally expanded the vision, and this year represents its full manifestation as a true festival.”
Born in Winchester, St Thomas, before relocating to Portmore, St Catherine in 1980, Jah Bouks gained national recognition through the Magnum Kings and Queens competition. His musical career has remained grounded in Pan-African principles, distinctly contrasting with contemporary trends. “Africa remains central to our cultural identity,” Jah Bouks asserted. “The continent offers tremendous support for authentic reggae music and represents our philosophical foundation.”