LEFT: The brain trust behind Reggae Sumfest, Johnny Gourzong (left), and Robert Russell, strategise for the big event. RIGHT: Chairman of Sumfest Productions, Robert Rusell (left), with Y.P. Seaton. - Photos by Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter

There was music, cold beer and good vibes at the Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest launch at Devon House on Wednesday.

Considering this is the 15th anniversary of the show, the turnout was expected to be a big one and the crowd did not disappoint. Before the official start, the video screens and televisions, strung up all around the grounds of the great house's East Lawns, showed memorable scenes from Sumfests past as well as various Red Stripe Drink Responsibly videos.

Executive Director of Sumfest Productions, Johnny Gourzong, said the festival had not just been the gateway for local talent to parade but also has attracted some of the best in foreign acts. He gave 'big ups' to Red Stripe for taking their sponsorship to another level. He also promised that Sumfest promoters would not be resting on their laurels. There was an array of sponsors to pledge their support to what has undoubtedly become one of the most anticipated music festivals in the world. Some of these sponsors had their products out for guests to (in some cases) literally get a taste of what is to come next month.

At this year's festival, Fab 5 and Lloyd Parks and We The People Band will be honoured for their contribution to Jamaican music. Among the foreign artistes who will be rocking Montego Bay this year are LL Cool J and Mary J. Blige. Apart from the turntable magic of DJ Smoke, no Sumfest launch is complete without performances. Songbirds Cherine Anderson and Etana, upcoming talents Shane-O, Ginjah and probably the hottest DJ at the moment, Munga Honourebel, all did a few minutes for the audience.

Guests included: Ali McNab, Andrea Whyte, Wayne Lawrence, Claudette Powell, Paula-Ann Porter Jones, Debra Edwards, Angela Thame, Michael Edwards, Michael Williams, Amelia Sewell, Ashley Martin, Candace Buchanan, David Shields, Mark Shields, Don Topping and Carolle Guntley.