WRJ News Interview With Joe Bogdanovich || Reggae Sumfest

Many have asked, but not many have received an answer to the question, "Who is the man behind Reggae Sumfest?"

Well, I come to you today with just a tip of the iceberg about who this icon we all know and appreciate.

Earlier today, I was able to get the opportunity to have just a short interview with the man behind the International Event Showcase, Reggae Sumfest, and his name as we all know, is Joe Bogdanovich. Many who know the name, doesn't necessarily know who he is and how he came to be apart of Reggae Sumfest, well, below, you will find a few questions I had asked him personally, to get some information about who he is and what he's about. 

1. Tell us a bit about Joe Bogdanovich and why you decided to invest in Reggae Sumfest.

- I simply did not want to see another annual music event disappear and the opportunity arose to get involved. I firmly believe that Reggae Sumfest will attract a strong international audience as well as a healthy local one. And as it turned out we had a bumper crowd..

2. The 25^th staging of Reggae Sumfest is now history and is being called the best. How successful was this year’s event?

- This 25th staging of Reggae Sumfest was a knockout. Attendance was fabulous, the entertainment was superb and Dancehall night was possibly the best ever. All artists delivered clean lyrics which is a first and the pre-events were loved. So I give thanks for all who contributed to this great celebration.

3. Being Sting and Sumfest promoter, what are your thoughts on the recent uproar of Alkaline's "After all" video?

- Not much. But what I am proud of for the artist Alkaline, is that he delivered his best ever performance especially for this young artist. He, like many others on the bill, delivered the goods.

After reading the responses to the first 3 questions, it intrigued me to question, since the franchise is set to be held next year again, and as was stated in a previous press release, the "Mayor" award given to Mr. Bogdanovich after Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay.

4. How does it feel to be “Mayor of Montego Bay”?

- I'm not the Mayor, but receiving this award on behalf of the festival for 25 years was a real honor. Maximum respect for the Summerfest team that lead the charge.

5. Know it’s a bit early but after this year’s successful staging, what plans does “the Mayor” have for next year’s festival and the tourist capital Montego Bay?

- I have game changing plans for both the festival and Montego Bay and with God's will, both will happen. The future looks bright!

Next year's Reggae Sumfest will be "game changing" as the owner said, so we, the Whatsupp Radio Jamaica Team, is looking forward to being there for the 26th staging of this prestigious event.

Joe Bogdanovich is the CEO of DSE (Downsound Entertainment) and the owner of the Reggae Sumfest brand.

- Reynaldo H.