The idea to dedicate a day in recognition of Jamaica's reggae music was conceptualised by music administrator, Andrea Davis, following a speech by Winnie Mandela, ex-wife of former South African President Nelson Mandela, while the two were on a visit to Jamaica in the aftermath of Nelson's release from prison in 1993. During a speech from that visit, the mother of South Africa pointed to the inspiration reggae music gave to the people of South Africa in their fight against apartheid.
Davis, a member of Jamaica Arts Holdings and Toots and the Maytals management, was no doubt inspired by Winnie Mandela's speech, and saw a vision of reggae's impact spreading internationally, through the dedication of a day to the music. Read More...
