Shaggy, Sean Paul and Kes Headline “Jamaica Strong” Benefit Concert for Hurricane Melissa Relief

After Hurricane Melissa — the most powerful storm recorded to strike Jamaica — the island’s leading artists mobilized quickly to assist the hardest-hit communities. Now, spearheaded by Sean Paul, Shaggy and Kes, a coalition of Caribbean musicians will gather for a large-scale benefit concert to raise funds for recovery efforts.

Announced on November 12, 2025, the Jamaica Strong benefit concert is scheduled for December 12, 2025 at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York. Confirmed performers so far include Chronic Law, T.O.K., Tessanne Chin, Aidonia, Inner Circle, Ky-Mani Marley, Teejay, Richie Stephens, Gramps Morgan and Mikey Spice, with additional acts expected to be revealed. Presale tickets go on sale November 13, 2025 at 10 a.m. ET; the public on-sale begins November 14, 2025.

“This is more than a concert — it’s a movement,” said George Crooks of Jammins Events, emphasizing the show’s mission to support communities still rebuilding in the aftermath of the storm.

Hurricane Melissa inflicted widespread damage across the Caribbean, with the death toll surpassing 75 and severe impacts reported in Jamaica, Cuba and parts of Haiti. Prominent Jamaican artists — including Shenseea, Beenie Man, Sean Paul and Spice — have been documenting relief efforts and mobilizing resources through their social channels.

Shaggy, who visited affected areas in the days after Melissa made landfall, described the scale of destruction he encountered and the logistical challenges of reaching remote communities. Teams worked through night and day to clear debris, deliver water and provide immediate assistance to families left without homes.

UBS Arena is seen as a fitting venue for the benefit, given its strong ties to New York’s Caribbean diaspora. Earlier in 2025 the arena hosted multiple Caribbean-headlined events that each grossed over $1 million across a range of genres, illustrating both the region’s cultural reach and the sizable audience for these artists.

As recovery continues, Jamaica’s music community also has reason to celebrate: all five nominees for Best Reggae Album at the 2026 Grammy Awards — Vybz Kartel, Lila Iké, Mortimer, Jesse Royal and Keznamdi — are Jamaican artists, underscoring the island’s enduring creative influence.

Below is the official announcement shared via Instagram:

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