Cup Match in Bermuda is a magical time. Commemorating the immediate abolition of slavery in Bermuda on August 1, 1834, our celebration – which typically became Carnival in other parts of the Anglo-Caribbean – is unique in the world. A two-day sporting competition that is surrounded by culturally meaningful events that make the annual four-day weekend an essential experience for anyone who has even a cursory appreciation for Bermuda.
In recent years, Cup Match Summer Splash has been the kickoff event. A routinely stacked concert that lights up Cup Match Eve with explosive energy, and world class performances. Legendary international artists like Sean Paul, Beres Hammond, Machel Montano, Beenie Man, Major Lazer, Jah Cure, and Chronixx have delivered extraordinary performances on the Cup Match Summer Splash stage, and this year promises to be absolutely transcendent!
Promoter Rowan “Wild Apache” Ramotar reflects on why Cup Match is so important to us, and what the event has in store for us in 2024.
“Cupmatch is about celebration as well as reflection. Remembering those who have made the sacrifice so we can enjoy this holiday. We are happy to produce 2 great events. Collie Budzz and Friends to kick-off the holiday, and Cupmatch Fever (Friday August 2) to conclude the two-day festivities. Both events will be held at Snorkel Park in Dockyard.”
Of course, getting our globe-trotting, Grammy nominated local superstar locked in to perform on Cup Match Eve is a coup of sorts in itself. Promoter Declan Harris expounds on his partner’s comment, indicating that the Cup Match Summer Splash brand will take a break this year to allow Collie Budzz to promote his own ‘Take It Easy’ Tour.
“We look forward to reintroducing Cup Match Summer Splash in the future. This would include the Saturday before, and the Wednesday – Cup Match Eve. Post-Covid effects still linger; hopefully, the Collie Buddz and Friends concert will change the momentum back to pre-Covid attendance…. Mr. Ramotar and I saw the value in Collie Buddz, and haven’t changed course in that belief since engaging in his possible appearance.”
From possible, to planned, this very special performance will mark Collie Budzz’s first concert in Bermuda in some seven years; and promises to unite Bermuda on a level few international artists could. Early bird VIP tickets for this event have been sold out for a while now, but standard tickets are available on www.bdatix.bm right now! Stop what you’re doing, and just go get yours!
Mr Harris breaks down why this event is a must-not-miss affair for Bermudian music lovers:
“This year, we are excited to welcome Bermuda’s own Collie Buddz, who has not performed locally in approximately seven years. In that time, he has continued to churn out hits as a prolific songwriter. In addition to Collie Buddz, we welcome reggae superstar Anthony B. Dubbed the original ‘Fire Mon,’ he brings a catalog of songs – and an energy level – that all ages will appreciate.”
In any other year, Anthony B would be a legitimately exciting headliner for a pre-Cup Match concert in Bermuda – but 2024 is special. This year, we get to welcome a truly great Bermudian artist home, and bask in the glory of his polished international stage show.
I remember when Anthony B rose to prominence in the 1990s. He was a massive part of the new conscious awakening that made artists like Garnett Silk, Sizzla Kalonji, Buju Banton, Luciano, Morgan Heritage, and Capleton legends of the genre. So, for those who remember those mystical, militant days when Reggae rediscovered her roots, Anthony B will be a huge draw.
Reflecting on what being a part of the Cup Match festivities means to the promoters, Mr Harris waxes poetical:
“As probably the most significant holiday of the year, and in celebration of Emancipation Day, we are honored to be able to usher in the first day of Cup Match with musical excellence and indulgence. We look forward to a revival, and our continued involvement and attachment to this wonderful holiday.”
He then shares something else patrons can expect at the show:
“We will be welcoming another addition to Collie Buddz and Friends in the appearance of Noah Powa. He brings the best of two genres in being both a comedian and dancehall performer. He has been in the business since his early teens. He is an ambassador of female empowerment, and he will be a welcome addition. There are a few other surprises in store, but we welcome the patrons to witness those first hand on the night!”
Collie Buddz won’t be the only Bermudian artist to bless the stage on July 31. Mr Harris has indicated that there will be three local artists appearing on the night, with newcomer Pier already confirmed.
Pier is a singer/songwriter who describes her style as Country-Pop – but she also dabbles in other musical genres, from R&B, to Soul, and Reggae. “Patrons attending the event can expect a different, and relaxing musical experience from me.”
Pier is looking forward to showcasing her talent for people who may not be familiar with her, and she’s: “Hoping people will enjoy my set; especially because I will be performing some original songs, and popular cover songs with accompaniment from my guitar.”
You can familiarize yourself with this exciting new Bermudian artist on Instagram and Facebook @piercrystal, and on her YouTube channel, piercrystalmusic. Go check her out.
Top local crowd-mover DJ iBreeze of the renowned King Jyrus Sound, the fabulously high-energy DJ Scoobay of YGS, and the always sensational DJ Rusty G will get the vibes going with the early warm, and the latter is ready to bring the heat for his own homecoming of sorts:
“I missed Cup Match last year because I was booked in Barbados for Crop Over so I’m definitely looking forward to hitting the stage at home this year!”
So, this event is shaping up to be a truly unforgettable experience for those with the wisdom, and good fortune to attend. If all goes well, this kickoff concert will lead us into a monumental Cup Match that will culminate in an historical St. George’s victory – and all balance will return to the universe.
