KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of what many describe as a remarkable festival, Josef Bogdanovich, the powerhouse CEO of Downsound Entertainment and mastermind behind Reggae Sumfest, has revealed that his team is already gearing up for the 2025 edition.
“Our first step is to review 2024 and continuously brainstorm on how we can raise the bar even higher. We just completed our first day of this review process, and we will keep pushing forward with our improvement plans,” Bogdanovich stated.
Creating Unforgettable Moments
Bogdanovich highlighted the festival’s ability to create unforgettable moments and expressed his commitment to always offering more. “This year, we went above and beyond,” Bogdanovich declared. “We focused on creating an unforgettable festival, and 2024 was blessed in so many ways. Having Ms Lauryn Hill perform was a special treat for our fans — keeping that a secret was a highlight for me. It exemplifies how good deeds are rewarded, and for that, I am forever grateful.”
Reinforcing Jamaica’s Musical Heritage
Bogdanovich expressed pride in the festival’s role in reinforcing Jamaica’s reputation as the reggae and dancehall capital of the world. He acknowledged the immense challenge of orchestrating seven days of non-stop action, yet he believes he and his team executed flawlessly. “The fact that Reggae Sumfest delivered a genuine festival experience with something special for everyone each night is a testament to our hard work. Pulling off seven separate productions is no small feat, but we did it with style,” he said.
Support and Praise from Partners
Joining Bogdanovich in applauding the festival’s success, Alicia Cabrera, executive manager of marketing and loyalty at Caribbean Airlines, said: “This has really been an outstanding festival over the years, and this year I think it is even larger than last year. The vibe at Reggae Sumfest is one of the best as music keeps us together. That is what it does for us at Caribbean Airlines and so this event is a must-do for us.”
Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett highlighted the festival’s ability to attract thousands of visitors, underscoring the strength of Jamaica’s entertainment product. He reaffirmed the Jamaica Tourist Board’s continued support for Reggae Sumfest, emphasizing its significant economic impact and its showcase of the resilient spirit of the Jamaican people. “Thousands of visitors flock to our shores each year to support this monumental event, and it’s easy to see why. Just two weeks after a Category 4 hurricane hit the island we managed to stage an event of this magnitude,” he gushed. “Not only does it generate millions in revenue for the country, but Reggae Sumfest embodies the indomitable spirit of the Jamaican people. It truly showcases the best of what Jamaica has to offer.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
With all eyes on the future, Bogdanovich said he is leading the charge to ensure that Reggae Sumfest continues to shine brightly on the global stage, promising even more unforgettable experiences in the years to come. As plans for the 2025 edition take shape, fans can expect the festival to continue its tradition of excellence, innovation, and celebration of Jamaica’s rich musical heritage.
