The Government of Jamaica officially proclaimed February as Reggae Month, but the celebrations came at a time when the industry there is in upheaval over censorship, free speech, and the toeing of the line with public decency on the airwaves.

The Government outlined several activities to be spread across the month. Among them are a One Love football match, a Reggae Film Festival, a Bob Marley Lecture and Global Reggae Conference at the University Of The West Indies plus other smaller conferences.

Meanwhile, the industry was, and still is, wrapped up in debate about what type of music is appropriate for radio and what images are suitable for television. Things exploded in early February when the Broadcasting Commission, the regulatory agency of free-to-air media products, slapped a ban on all media content using the word ‘Daggering’, and on all content with references to it. The term refers to a type of dancing with rapid pelvic gyrations, which many see as simulating violent sexual intercourse. But the movements and music have become a hit in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, with dozens of tunes and music videos making the references. The list includes ‘Daggering’ by Mr Vegas, ‘Dagga Dat’ by Bragga, and the flagship track, ‘Ramping Shop’ by Vybz Kartel and Spice.

The argument is about what should be appropriate for radio and television, as opposed to what artistes should be free to sing. The regulatory agency says it’s trying to protect the nation’s children from lewd content that may encourage risky behaviour, plus adults who do not wish to hear it.

But the artistes and industry personnel feel the Government is trying to muzzle them, with some apparently preparing to fight legally. As reported in the Jamaica STAR, Vybz Kartel’s lawyer is examining whether he can apply for Judicial Review to challenge the ban, claiming that Kartel is “concerned about his free speech.”


There are others however, who feel there is a space for such music, but not on radio or television. They feel the music and images are readily available on Cable networks or at the fetes and parties, so the ban on keeping them off radio and television is justified.

As the debate continues the Jamaican industry is still in turmoil. Throughout the month of March many aired their opinions and industry websites were ripe with varying opinions and stances. The effects of the turmoil have been felt throughout the region as other governmental agencies have been weighing in on the situation. Pyramid Entertainment, like other music industry players will certainly be keeping note of the developments.