The City of Miramar has once again transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange as it hosts the 13th Annual Rhythms of Africa. Running from April 18 to April 19, 2026, at the Miramar Cultural Center, this year’s installment carries the evocative theme, “Run Di Riddim: Every Beat for Jamaica.” The event, which has become a cornerstone of the South Florida cultural calendar, serves as more than just a concert series; it is a profound exploration of heritage, mentorship, and the enduring power of the African and Caribbean diaspora to foster unity through music.
Hosted by Mayor Wayne Messam in collaboration with the Embrace Music Foundation, the festival is a testament to the city’s commitment to arts and cultural preservation. With a lineup that features internationally acclaimed artists and a dedication to uplifting the next generation, this year’s gathering is poised to be a milestone in the festival’s decade-plus history.
Key Highlights
- Thematic Celebration: The 2026 festival centers on the theme “Run Di Riddim: Every Beat for Jamaica,” emphasizing the profound influence of Jamaican culture on global music.
- Star-Studded Lineup: Audiences are treated to performances by iconic artists including JC Lodge, Richie Stephens, and Gem Myers, accompanied by the Rhythms of Africa Band.
- Musical Mentorship: Program founder and Reggae Ambassador Willie Stewart leads an educational initiative where students from Somerset Academy Central Miramar showcase their skills in African drumming and percussion.
- Honoring Icons: The event pays special tribute to three foundational Jamaican figures—Cat Coore, Jimmy Cliff, and Sly Dunbar—celebrating their lifetime contributions to reggae and global music.
- Community Impact: Beyond the performances, the festival remains a vehicle for humanitarian efforts and local cultural development in the Miramar area.
A Deep Dive into the Rhythms of Africa Legacy
The Rhythms of Africa festival is deeply rooted in the concept of “rhythm as a language.” While the event title points toward the continent of Africa, its execution serves as a bridge, connecting the historical and cultural threads that bind Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States. In Miramar, a city known for its diverse population and significant Caribbean-American community, this festival provides a necessary space for intergenerational dialogue.
The Artistic Vision of Willie Stewart
At the helm of the musical production is Willie Stewart, the renowned Reggae Ambassador and former drummer of the legendary band Third World. Stewart’s involvement is not merely logistical; he acts as the philosophical architect of the festival. For Stewart, the drums are not just instruments but vessels for history. His work with the Rhythms of Africa Band focuses on precision, soul, and the passing of tradition.
In recent interviews, Stewart has highlighted the importance of his educational work, particularly the mentorship of students from Somerset Academy Central Miramar. These young musicians are given the rare opportunity to train under a master, learning the technicalities of percussion alongside the cultural narratives that define their genre. This educational component ensures that the festival is not just a passive concert experience, but an active participant in sustaining cultural identity for future generations.
Celebrating Jamaican Musical Titans
The tribute to Cat Coore, Jimmy Cliff, and Sly Dunbar serves as the emotional heart of this year’s program. By honoring these three distinct yet interconnected figures, the festival highlights the breadth of the Jamaican musical experience. Jimmy Cliff’s contributions as a singer-songwriter helped export reggae to the global stage during the 1970s; Sly Dunbar, as one-half of the legendary rhythm duo Sly and Robbie, redefined the sound of modern reggae and dancehall; and Cat Coore, a founder of Third World, represents the enduring versatility of the genre. Including these names in the 2026 program allows the audience to reflect on the transition from the golden age of reggae to its contemporary influence on global charts.
Economic and Social Impact on Miramar
The decision by the City of Miramar to host such a large-scale cultural event at the Miramar Cultural Center is strategic. It positions the city as a regional leader in cultural tourism. Mayor Wayne Messam has frequently articulated that the city’s strength lies in its diversity. By supporting events that celebrate the specific histories of the Afro-Caribbean diaspora, the city is not just filling seats in a theater; it is cultivating a brand identity that prioritizes inclusivity and global awareness. This cultural investment yields social dividends, creating a sense of belonging for residents and drawing visitors who seek authentic cultural experiences.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Q: What is the primary goal of the Rhythms of Africa festival?
A: The festival aims to bridge cultures through music, foster intergenerational connections through mentorship, and provide a platform to celebrate the rich heritage of the African and Caribbean diaspora, specifically highlighting the influence of Jamaican culture this year.
Q: Who are the main performers at the 2026 event?
A: The event features performances by reggae songstress JC Lodge, international hitmaker Richie Stephens, and the electrifying Gem Myers, all backed by the Rhythms of Africa Band under the direction of Reggae Ambassador Willie Stewart.
Q: How does the festival incorporate student participation?
A: The festival includes an educational component where students from Somerset Academy Central Miramar perform after undergoing intensive training in African drumming and percussion, mentored directly by Willie Stewart.
Q: Why was Jamaica chosen as the focus for this year’s tribute?
A: The tribute, titled “Run Di Riddim: Every Beat for Jamaica,” honors the lasting musical legacies of iconic figures like Cat Coore, Jimmy Cliff, and Sly Dunbar, whose influence on rhythm, soul, and reggae has left an indelible mark on the global cultural landscape.