MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – As Reggae Month heats up in South Florida, residents and visitors alike are immersing themselves in the rhythms of Jamaican culture, food, and music.
With a lineup of events spanning February, South Florida is embracing reggae in full swing — thanks in part to the ongoing legacy of the legendary Bob Marley.
The Marley family continues to carry the torch, with two of Bob Marley’s sons, Rohan and Ky-Mani, keeping the reggae spirit alive through both music and entrepreneurial ventures.
Local 10′s Alexis Frazier sat down with the brothers to explore how they are celebrating Reggae Month and honoring their father’s cultural impact.
The Marley Legacy Lives On
When discussing reggae’s lasting influence, one name inevitably comes to mind: Bob Marley.
His music, iconic for its infectious rhythms, served as a movement, and songs like “One Love” and “Get Up, Stand Up” became anthems for unity, resistance, and social change.
Jamaican reggae artist Ky-Mani Marley, who is preparing to release a new album this month, reflected on the profound impact of his father’s music.
”I was blessed to come from a great legacy,” he said.
For Ky-Mani Marley, reggae is more than a genre — it’s an intrinsic part of his identity, and despite the weight of his father’s fame, he doesn’t feel burdened by it.
“I’ve never felt that pressure because I’m a free spirit,” he shared. “Becoming an artist and knowing who your father was … it was natural.”
Meanwhile, Rohan Marley, an entrepreneur, is continuing to build on the family’s success.
From launching new businesses to opening coffee shops, Rohan’s ventures honor the Marley legacy.
One notable endeavor is the Marley Coffee shop, set to open in Miami, bringing a piece of the family’s legacy to South Florida.
“We are Bob, we’re Bob’s children,” Rohan Marley said. “Reggae music is the music that speaks to the heart, the mind, the body, and the soul. There’s nothing like it,” Rohan Marley said, encapsulating the timeless appeal of the genre.”
In addition to his coffee business, Rohan is involved in the cannabis industry, with a Florida-based partnership designed to create and sell legal cannabis products under the Marley family brand.
Reggae Events Across South Florida
While the Marley brothers continue to keep reggae culture alive, South Florida is gearing up for a month of reggae celebrations.
From Broward to Miami, events are taking place throughout February, inviting fans to experience reggae music, culture, and cuisine firsthand.
Upcoming Events:
- Sunday, Feb. 9 : Reggae Month event at Blue Martini in Fort Lauderdale, featuring live music by Visions Band and special guests. Free entry with RSVP until 8 p.m. (21+ only)
- Saturday, Feb. 15: Rastafari Day and Drum Circle in North Miami, with live performances from Big Yout, Papa Michigan, Anthony B, and others. Free admission from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 16: Reggae Month event at Kekoon Restaurant and Lounge in Davie, with live reggae music and good vibes from 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
- Friday, Feb. 21: Reggae Jam at The Loop on Fort Lauderdale Beach, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., featuring performances by Third World, Kumar Fyre, and more.
- Friday, Feb. 22: Family Fun Day at The Loop, featuring a day of reggae-themed activities and performances from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 23: Praise on the Green Gospel Extravaganza at Shirley Branca Park in Miramar, with gospel reggae stars performing live from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.