Reggae stars Shaggy, Sean Paul, and Kes will headline the Jamaica Strong benefit concert on December 12 at New York's UBS Arena to support relief efforts following Hurricane Melissa. The event features an all-star lineup of Caribbean artists, with proceeds benefiting multiple foundations and relief organizations. Tickets go on presale November 13 and general sale November 14.
Event Overview
Announced on November 12, 2025, the Jamaica Strong benefit concert aims to aid recovery from Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm to ever make landfall in Jamaica. The hurricane caused over 75 deaths across the Caribbean, severely impacting Jamaica, Cuba, and parts of Haiti, leaving many without homes, water, or electricity.
Organized by the Jamaican government in partnership with Jammins Events, Irie Jam Radio, and Roadblock Radio, the concert will raise funds for Shaggy’s Make A Difference Foundation, Food for the Poor (Sean Paul's preferred charity), the Irie Jam Radio Foundation, and the Jamaican consulate’s relief efforts.
Performers and Details
Headliners include Shaggy, Sean Paul, and Kes (KES the Band), joined by confirmed artists such as Chronic Law, T.O.K, Tessanne Chin, Aidonia, Inner Circle, Ky-Mani Marley, Teejay, Richie Stephens, Gramps Morgan, and Mikey Spice. More performers are expected to be announced.
The event takes place at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York, a venue known for hosting successful Caribbean music shows in 2025, including performances by artists like Buju Banton and Beres Hammond.
Tickets are available via presale starting Thursday, November 13, at 10 a.m. ET, with general on-sale on Friday, November 14, through Ticketmaster.
Quotes and Context
“This is more than a concert — it’s a movement,” said Jammins Events organizer George Crooks. “Every ticket purchased directly supports rebuilding lives, homes, and hope in Jamaica.”
Shaggy shared details of his post-hurricane relief work with Billboard, describing the devastation: “We had to chop [tree] limbs down, move things out the way... The square itself was shut down. It was ground zero because it wasn’t livable anymore.” He also noted community resilience to Rolling Stone: “One thing about Jamaicans, we’re resilient and we’re all gathering.” Sean Paul has matched donations for relief efforts.