International Reggae Day Special: Catching Up with Don Dada on Reggae Hour

Celebrating Reggae, Africa, and a Global Journey of Conscious Music

Every year on International Reggae Day, music lovers across the globe celebrate a genre that has transcended borders, languages, and cultures. Born in Jamaica, reggae has become a universal language of resistance, unity, spirituality, and hope. This year, Reggae Hour is proud to celebrate the occasion by welcoming back one of Africa's most influential reggae voices—Menelik Nesta Gibbons, better known worldwide as Don Dada.

This isn't a first introduction.

It's a reunion.

Over the years, Don Dada has become more than a guest on Reggae Hour. He has become a friend of the program, sharing his musical journey, his vision for African reggae, and his unwavering commitment to conscious music. Our upcoming conversation continues that story as we reflect on another remarkable chapter in his career.

A Landmark Year for Don Dada

The past year has marked another significant milestone for the South African reggae ambassador.

His latest album, Forward We Continue, has earned a nomination for Best Reggae Album at the SAMA32 Awards, further cementing his reputation as one of Africa's leading voices in reggae music.

The album's message is one of perseverance, cultural pride, and forward movement—principles that have defined Don Dada's career from the very beginning.

As reggae continues to evolve across continents, artists like Don Dada remind us that the music's roots remain firmly planted in truth, justice, and African identity.

Reggae Beyond Jamaica

One of the themes we'll explore is reggae's remarkable journey around the world.

From the streets of Kingston to communities throughout South Africa, reggae has become more than a musical style—it has become a cultural movement that inspires people to seek unity, freedom, and self-determination.

Don Dada has been at the forefront of that movement, helping build bridges between Jamaica and Africa while demonstrating that reggae's message belongs to the world.

Celebrating International Reggae Day

International Reggae Day is more than a celebration of music.

It is a recognition of reggae's enduring impact on global culture, social consciousness, and artistic expression.

During this special episode, we'll discuss:

• The inspiration behind Forward We Continue.

• His recent success and SAMA32 Best Reggae Album nomination.

• The growth of reggae across South Africa.

• The enduring relationship between Africa and Jamaica.

• Why conscious reggae remains as relevant today as ever.

• What's next for Don Dada as he continues expanding reggae's global reach.

Join Us Live

Whether you've followed Don Dada's journey for years or are discovering his music for the first time, this conversation promises thoughtful reflections on reggae's past, present, and future.

Live Broadcast

International Reggae Day Special

Guest: Don Dada (Menelik Nesta Gibbons)

Hosted by: Reggae Hour

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

2:00 PM – South Africa Standard Time (SAST)

7:00 AM – U.S. Central Daylight Time (CDT)

Join us as we celebrate reggae's global influence and reconnect with one of Africa's leading ambassadors of conscious music.

Because reggae isn't just music.

It's history.

It's identity.

It's a movement that continues to inspire generations around the world.

Forward we continue.