On Saturday, August 3, VP Records, in conjunction with the highly anticipated Jamaica Arts & Music Summer (JAMS) Festival, hosted a special event at its flagship retail store at 170-19 Jamaica Avenue in Queens, NY. This vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community turned out to be a memorable day for Reggae enthusiasts and local residents alike.
In an effort to expand the Reggae genre and develop an outreach with local and community musicians, VP Records co-founder Pat Chin opened the doors to the retail store with live music, exclusive offers, and more. The festivities included an all-day 10% discount on in-store products, a DJ set by Bajan Assassin from 1pm to 4pm, followed by a live performance by saxophonist Anant Pradhan – a touring member of the Skatalites – and his band from 4pm to 6pm. The day culminated with a raffle for a 55” flat-screen TV, held at 5pm, adding to the excitement and community spirit.
“VP Records is proud to be a part of the annual JAMS Festival, which showcases the incredible cultural diversity of Southeast Queens,” said Richard Lue, Director of Business Development at VP Records. “We are delighted with the turnout and the enthusiastic response from the community. It was a day to remember, filled with great music, special offers, and a strong sense of community.”
The JAMS Festival, organized by the JAMS Planning Committee and hosted by Cultural Collaborative Jamaica (CCJ), is a cornerstone event in the community, drawing over 150,000 residents and visitors from the tristate area. Spanning over 10 blocks and featuring a wide array of family-friendly activities, food vendors, and live entertainment, JAMS provides a unique escape from everyday life and a celebration of the rich history and culture of Southeast Queens.
“This is more than just a street festival,” said Tyra Emerson, the Executive Director of Cultural Collaborative Jamaica. “It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Southeast Queens while enjoying some of the best music, art, and food that the community has to offer.”
VP Records extends its heartfelt thanks to all who attended and supported the event. The success of this event underscores the power of music to bring communities together and the enduring appeal of reggae music. As we continue to celebrate Jamaica Independence Day and the vibrant culture of Southeast Queens, VP Records remains committed to promoting reggae music and supporting local artists and musicians.