Reggae pioneer Shinehead headlines the Return of Rub A Dub Festival in Atlanta on August 16, reigniting Jamaica’s foundational sound system culture.
The iconic artist known for genre-blending hits like “Strive” and “Billie Jean” joins legends Brigadier Jerry, Anthony Malvo, Carlton Livingston, Sir Alexander, and Downbeat The Ruler’s Tony Screw for a raw celebration of mic-and-sound-system tradition.
This year’s revival marks both a homecoming for Southeast fans and a milestone in reggae’s U.S. evolution.
“This is about legacy and memory,” Shinehead told Acclaim PR. “We’re preserving a culture and honoring those who built it.” The festival, first held in Georgia in 2021, returns on organizer Fame’s birthday, promising unfiltered live performances.
Beyond the stage, Shinehead will spin rare vinyl with DJ Papalotl as Kingston 12 Hi Fi, spotlighting roots reggae’s conscious messages of unity and resilience.
The timing is symbolic: 2025 marks 35 years since Shinehead’s seminal album Real Rock, while his debut single “Billie Jean” celebrated its 40th anniversary last year.
Though he hasn’t released solo work since 2020’s pandemic-era tracks, he remains active, featuring on Sir Alexander’s recent single “Life.” For Atlanta audiences, the festival offers more than nostalgia, it’s a living archive of reggae’s heartbeat.
