Fresh off the growing success of his latest hit single, “Dem Bad Mind,” acclaimed reggae singer Anthony Cruz is gearing up to deliver another unforgettable performance when he takes the stage at the annual Jamaica Day Family, Food & Music Festival on August 22 and 23 at Brampton Sports Park, 7575 Kennedy Road, Brampton, Ontario.
Known for his captivating stage presence and soulful vocals, Cruz is no stranger to Canadian audiences. Over the years, he has built a strong following with memorable performances across the country, making him one of the festival’s most anticipated acts this year.
The two-day celebration will feature an impressive lineup of reggae and dancehall entertainers, including Richie Stephens, Louie Culture, Flourgon, Nesbeth, Klassik Freshcobar, Jah Cutta, Miss Diva, Tony Prophet, King Ujah and several other performers. Festival gates open at 1 p.m. each day, with festivities ending at 10 p.m. on Saturday and 9 p.m. on Sunday.
Advance tickets are currently available, with VIP admission priced at $85 and regular admission at $40 until Friday, August 21.
Anthony Cruz has earned a reputation as one of reggae music’s most charismatic performers, captivating audiences with his smooth delivery, heartfelt lyrics and polished performances. Throughout his career, he has graced the stages of some of reggae’s biggest events, including Sting, Rebel Salute, Reggae Sunsplash, Irie Jamboree, GT Taylor Extravaganza, Rototom Reggae Sunsplash, Summerjam, Capleton’s “St. Mary Mi Come From,” Stone Love’s annual anniversary celebration and numerous school events where his charm and energetic performances have made him a fan favourite.
A gifted singer, songwriter and producer, Cruz is also the nephew of late reggae icon Garnet Silk. His musical achievements include a nomination for Best Male Reggae Artist at the 2012 British Reggae Industry Awards (B.R.I.A.), while his album “Cruz Control” received recognition from Reggaeville.com as one of Europe’s standout reggae albums of the year. In 2006, he won the Reggaesoca Music Award for Best Reggae Combination for the hit “Too Bloody” featuring Grammy Award-winning artiste Buju Banton.
Born Rowan Smith on December 17 in Mandeville, Manchester, Cruz was raised in a deeply musical family. Inspired by relatives including Garnet Silk and Aaron Silk, along with his talented parents, he developed a passion for music from an early age. After graduating from Holmwood Technical High School, he migrated to the United States, first living in New York before settling in Miami.
His breakthrough came in 1993 when he met renowned producer Willie Lindo, who recognized Cruz’s exceptional vocal talent after hearing a demo recording. Under Lindo’s guidance, Cruz refined his craft and launched his professional career with the release of his debut single, “Tell Me What’s Up.” Soon after, “Just Call My Name” topped charts in Miami before gaining popularity in New York, England and other international markets, establishing Anthony Cruz as one of reggae music’s rising stars.
With decades of experience, a catalogue of timeless hits and the momentum of his latest single “Dem Bad Mind,” Anthony Cruz is expected to be one of the highlights of this year’s Jamaica Day Family, Food & Music Festival, promising fans a memorable weekend of outstanding reggae entertainment.
