Our big Saturday on our main stage at Ship Point is an ode to the incredible influence of Jamaican rooted music as we celebrate not only reggae, but hip-hop and big bass electronic music that was pioneered by the soundsystems of Jamaica. To celebrate a quarter century of Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival, we are honoured to welcome one of hip-hop’s most conscious and hard-hitting acts, DEAD PREZ. Not only does this mark the festival debut of Dead Prez, but marks the duo’s first show in Canada in over a decade. Since the release of their landmark debut album “Let’s Get Free” in 2000, Dead Prez has been recognized as one of hip-hop’s most important acts – balancing hard thumping beats with an unwavering dedication to tackling an endless array of politically pressing issues pertaining to the Black community. MCs Sticman and M1 have proven time and time again – on Dead Prez releases and their numerous guest appearances – that they are among the quickest, smartest, most dedicated political MCs this side of Chuck D (Public Enemy). This is sure to be one of the most powerful, unforgettable hip-hop shows Victoria has seen in quite some time.

Bringing the straight reggae goodness on the bill is our dear friend, UK reggae icon MACKA B & THE ROOTS RAGGA BAND. After nearly four decades, Macka B is recognized as true soldier of reggae, spreading the words of love, unity and resistance against the forces that would try to stop us from realizing that love and unity. Through his remarkable output of records and his popular ongoing web series “Wha Me Eat,” Macka B has carved out a wholly unique place in the world of reggae. His last Victoria appearances left a huge mark on our audiences and we cannot wait to see what him and The Roots Ragga Band bring us under the open sky at the Inner Harbour. Also joining us from the UK on this jam-packed Saturday bill is reggae bass outfit MUNGO’S HI-FI, who will be coming with powerful vocalist MARINA P. There might be no act in the UK doing more to both preserve and push forward big bass reggae music. Their dedication to blending the sounds of Jamaica’s past with new ideas and energy has made them one of the biggest crossover acts in Europe, bringing fans of classic Jamaican music and modern electronic bass together in dancefloor revelry. Kicking things off for our Saturday party is Victoria’s own ultra smooth R&B/hip-hop blending machine, BLASÉ BLASÉ, who will be laying down their silky grooves and effortlessly cool vocals to bring some serious west coast style to the proceedings. Longtime allies TANK GYAL and DJ AREMS will also be on hand to warm up the system and keep people’s feet moving between bands with the best in reggae, dancehall, hip-hop and more. Join us for the penultimate Ship Point throwdown of our landmark 25th Anniversary!