The third annual "Love City Live!" brings four days of music and culture to St. John starting Thursday, with the highlight Saturday when Steel Pulse takes the stage at Winston Wells Ballpark in Cruz Bay.
Gates open at 6:30 p.m. The show begins at 7 p.m.
"We are committed to showcasing the finest the Virgin Islands has to offer," Glenn “Wasi” Philbert, the principal in sponsor Global Venture Consultants, said. "It’s about immersing ourselves in our Caribbean culture and artistry – the things that make us unique, and inviting the world to join us in celebrating it.”
Steel Pulse is a Grammy-winning group from the United Kingdom. Their album, “Babylon the Bandit,” won the 1985 Grammy for the best reggae album. Their albums “Victims, Rastafari Centennial,” “Rage & Fury,” “Living Legacy,” and “African Holocaust” have been nominated for Grammys.
According to Philbert, the group remains close to their roots and continues to fight injustice, educate the masses, and promote positive messages through spiritually uplifting music.
During the festival, Steel Pulse will perform their hits "Roller Skates," "Leggo Beast," "Chant a Psalm," "Raid Roots Dance," and "Your House," along with fan favorites from the band’s extensive catalog.
In addition to Steel Pulse, reggae crooner Duane Stephenson will perform his international hits "Cottage in Negril" and "August Town.” Fyah Train and rising reggae performer Reemah, both from St. Croix, and St. John’s Inner Visions Band will perform.
On Thursday, Lime 101 – an art, food and rum experience – runs from 4 to 9 p.m. at the V.I. National Park Ballfield. It will include cooking classes and information on such topics as the healing qualities of indigenous herbs. Local food will be available for sale, and the Love City Pan Dragons and Coco and the Sunshine Band will perform.
“It’s a showcase of local art,” Philbert said.
Friday features the "Strictly Rockers" reggae party. It runs from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Cruz Bay Beach near the Battery. It features DJ music and a chance to meet the performers.
Love City Live! then caps off the weekend with The Ultimate PowerBoat Party at White Bay on Jost Van Dyke. It runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“It’s a beach party,” Philbert said.
Philbert said for those who don’t have a boat, the ferry between St. John and Jost Van Dyke leaves St. John at 8:30 a.m. and returns at 5:30 p.m.
Admission to Lime 101 is free.
Tickets are $20 for the Strictly Rockers reggae party and are available at the gate.
Tickets to the Saturday performance are $55. They’re available on St. John at Connections, Love City Barbers, Cases by the Sea, 212 Boutique, and Love City Beach Shop.
They are available on St. Thomas at Natural Livity, Urban Threadz, International Records, Just Threads, Red Hook Mail Service, and Essentric Shoe Boutique.
They’re available on St. Croix at Riddings.
On Tortola, tickets are available at UMI Fashion, Mulligan’s, Ottley’s Sandbox 45 in Lower Estate, and D’ Best Cup at Soper’s Hole West End.
More information is available online at www.ExperienceLoveCityLive.com .
