Shaggy Leads “Jamaica Strong” Hurricane Relief Effort with All-Star Benefit Concert at UBS Arena

In the wake of the devastating Hurricane Melissa that swept across Jamaica, Grammy Award-winning artist Shaggy is stepping up once again to make a difference. Through his Make a Difference Foundation, the reggae and dancehall icon has partnered with powerhouse industry figures to present the “Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert” — a monumental event under the “I Love Jamaica Concert Series” banner — taking place Friday, December 12, 2025, at UBS Arena in Queens, New York.

A United Front for Jamaica

This historic event brings together an incredible team of Jamaican and Caribbean leaders in entertainment and philanthropy, including Inner Circle (of “Bad Boys” and “Sweat” fame), Sharon Burke of Solid Agency, George Crooks of Jammins Events, Robert “Bobby” Clarke of Irie Jam Media, and Kacy Rankine of Roadblock Radio LLC. Together, they are mobilizing artists, fans, and the diaspora in a massive effort to rebuild lives, schools, and communities impacted by the storm.

Endorsed by the Government of Jamaica through the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (MCGES), the concert serves as a global call for unity, compassion, and action.

“Jamaica’s culture has always been a source of strength, pride, and global influence,” said The Hon. Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport. “In times of crisis, it becomes a unifying force. The ‘I Love Jamaica’ concert series reminds us that even from afar, our people and our friends around the world can come together to rebuild lives and restore hope.”

Shaggy’s Legacy of Giving

From funding life-saving equipment at the Bustamante Hospital for Children to supporting youth development and education, Shaggy’s Make a Difference Foundation has long stood as a beacon of hope and generosity.

“This isn’t just about rebuilding homes — it’s about rebuilding hope,” Shaggy shared. “Our music and culture have always been powerful tools for healing and unity. From Kingston to Queens, the spirit of Jamaica connects people everywhere. When tragedy strikes, that same spirit calls us to stand together and take care of our own.”

Purpose, Transparency, and Global Support

All proceeds from the Jamaica Strong Concert will go directly to Jamaica’s official Hurricane Relief Fund and Make a Difference Foundation. Every dollar raised will support affected families, students, and communities — with strict transparency and accountability measures in place to ensure funds reach those who need them most.

Momentum continues to build across the entertainment and corporate worlds, as global artists and brands align with the cause. The event is shaping up to be one of the most significant cultural and humanitarian collaborations of the decade.

Tickets & Event Information

🎟 Tickets On Sale:

• UBS & AMEX Pre-Sale: November 12–13, 2025
• Public On-Sale: Friday, November 14, 2025
• Purchase at: Ticketmaster.com | UBSArena.com

Premium, VIP, and Group Packages will be available. All proceeds benefit Hurricane Melissa Relief and the Make a Difference Foundation.

For sponsorship opportunities or media credentials, contact: info@ilovejamaicaconcert.org

About the “I Love Jamaica” Concert Series

The I Love Jamaica Concert Series, endorsed by MCGES, is a global platform celebrating Jamaica’s enduring cultural spirit. It mobilizes artists, fans, and communities worldwide to support the island in moments of need — through the healing power of music.

This year’s Jamaica Strong Concert will feature an all-star lineup of Jamaican and international talent — uniting for a single purpose: to restore, rebuild, and remind the world that Jamaica’s strength is forever unbreakable.