Reggae Sumfest is Jamaica's premier music festival since 1993.

It has been a melting pot of musical genres, blending the island's Reggae and Dancehall heritage with international R&B and hip-hop flavors.

Over the years, the festival has hosted a plethora of global superstars, each bringing their unique sound to the Sumfest stage at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex.

Now, let's take a journey through the top international acts at Reggae Sumfest.

Babyface

In 2024, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds graced the Reggae Sumfest stage, marking his return to Jamaica after over a decade.

His performance was a nostalgic journey through R&B classics, including hits like "Every Time I Close My Eyes," "Never Keeping Secrets," and "Two Occasions."

The audience was particularly moved by his renditions of songs he penned for other artists, such as "End of the Road" by Boyz II Men and "You're Making Me High" by Toni Braxton.

Babyface's set was a highlight of the festival, reaffirming the event's commitment to musical excellence.

Toni Braxton

The 2025 edition of Reggae Sumfest sees the return of Grammy-winning R&B icon Toni Braxton, who last performed at the festival in 2009.

Her soulful hits like "Un-Break My Heart," "Breathe Again," and "He Wasn't Man Enough" are among fan favorites. 

Moliy

Also in 2025, Ghanaian Afro-fusion artist Moliy makes her Reggae Sumfest debut.

Her viral hit "Shake It To The Max" made waves internationally.

The remix, featuring Jamaica’s own Shenseea and Skillibeng, takes things up a notch, seamlessly fusing Afrobeats and dancehall into a cross-cultural anthem

Destiny's Child

In 2003, Destiny's Child graced the Reggae Sumfest stage, marking a significant moment as the only foreign act that year.

Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams delivered a powerhouse performance, with Beyoncé teaming up with Jamaican dancehall artist Sean Paul for their hit "Baby Boy."

This collaboration was a highlight because it resonated deeply with the Jamaican audience.

Jay-Z

Hip-hop mogul Jay-Z made his mark at Reggae Sumfest in 2000, delivering a performance that showcased his lyrical prowess and stage presence.

Sharing the lineup with artists like Shaggy and Lady Saw, Jay-Z's appearance underscored the festival's commitment to featuring top-tier international talent alongside Jamaican legends.

Nicki Minaj

Trinidad-born, New York-raised rapper Nicki Minaj made her Jamaican debut at Reggae Sumfest in 2011.

Her performance was electric, with the crowd rapping along to her hits word for word.

A standout moment was her live rendition of the "Bad Gyal Edition" remix of Gyptian's "Hold Yuh," a nod to her Caribbean roots that thrilled the audience.

Ne-Yo

R&B sensation Ne-Yo graced the Reggae Sumfest stage in 2008, bringing his smooth vocals and chart-topping hits to Montego Bay.

Performing songs like "So Sick" and "Because of You," Ne-Yo's set was a blend of heartfelt ballads and danceable tracks that captivated the audience.

Snoop Dogg

In 2001, Snoop Dogg brought his West Coast flair to Reggae Sumfest, delivering a performance that included classics like "Gin and Juice" and "What's My Name?"

His appearance was so impactful that it was later released as a DVD titled "Snoop Dogg – The Jamaican Episode," capturing the energy and excitement of his set.

Missy Elliott

The iconic rapper brought her dynamic energy to Reggae Sumfest in 2006, headlining the festival's final night, aptly titled "The Summit."

Her performance was a vibrant blend of her chart-topping hits, including "Lose Control," "On & On," and "Irresistible Delicious."

Usher

Usher's 2010 performance at Reggae Sumfest was a masterclass in showmanship.

He was joined on stage by Chris Brown and Jamaican dancehall artist Elephant Man, creating a dynamic fusion of R&B and Dancehall that had the crowd dancing all night.

Kanye West

Before he became a global icon, Kanye West performed at Reggae Sumfest in 2004.

Backed by a gospel choir and supported by John Legend on keyboard and vocals, Kanye's set included tracks from his debut album, "The College Dropout."

Wyclef Jean

Wyclef Jean performed at Reggae Sumfest in 2000, delivering an electrifying set that showcased his versatility and connection to Caribbean music.

Sharing the stage with artists like Joe and Steel Pulse, Jean's performance was a highlight of the festival that year.

Rihanna

At just 18 years old, Barbadian singer Rihanna took the Reggae Sumfest stage in 2006, marking her first performance in Jamaica.

She delivered hits like "Pon de Replay" and "SOS," and shared the stage with Missy Elliott, blending Pop and Dancehall in a way that highlighted her Caribbean roots and burgeoning global appeal. 

These performances underscore Reggae Sumfest's role as a cultural bridge, bringing together international stars and Jamaican artists in a celebration of music and unity.

Each act contributed to the rich history of the festival, leaving lasting impressions on fans and influencing the global music scene.