Roots Revival in Queens: ‘Tribute To Their Legacy’ Packs New York Venue

(ReggaeVibeMedia.com) – The enduring spirit of roots reggae was on full display this past weekend as a massive crowd converged on the Swift River Center in Queens to honor the incomparable legacy of The Mighty Diamonds. The fifth annual “Tribute To Their Legacy” event, held on March 27, proved so popular that organizers were forced to turn away patrons after the venue reached its maximum capacity. The overwhelming response served as a powerful reminder that the harmonies of Trench Town still resonate deeply within the New York diaspora, years after the genre-defining trio first emerged.

Organized by the families of the late Donald “Tabby” Shaw and Fitzroy “Bunny” Simpson in collaboration with the Caribbean American Society of New York (CASONY), the evening was a masterclass in cultural preservation. The stage was ignited by a stellar lineup of performers including Papa Michigan, Little Twitch, and Derrick Barnett & Statement Band, all of whom paid homage to the “Diamonds” catalog of hits like “I Need A Roof” and “Pass The Dutchie.” In a particularly moving moment, Bunny Diamond’s daughter, Rosemarie Denise Ferguson, joined the celebrations, bridging the gap between the music’s founding fathers and the generation carrying the torch forward.

Beyond the music, the event served as a platform to recognize the “unsung heroes” who have championed reggae culture in the Tri-State area. Honorees included marketing consultant Sherein Lisa-Jean Morgan-Hill, broadcaster Francine Chin, and Trench Town stalwart Constantine “Dream” Walker. As the sounds of classic roots reggae filled the night, the success of the tribute underscored a clear message: the foundation of the music remains as solid as ever. For the fans who packed the Swift River Center, it wasn’t just a concert, but a necessary reclamation of a legacy that continues to define the heartbeat of Jamaica.