Patoranking is first African to perform at Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica

The event took place from 16 to 22 July at Montego Bay, and Patoranking became the first artist from his country and continent to perform at what is acknowledged as reggae music’s biggest platform.

Since the first edition of the festival in 1993, Reggae Sumfest, "the biggest concert festival in Jamaica", has attracted top artists in the genre including Beenie Man, Elephant Man, Damian and Stephen Marley and others. Pop acts 50 Cent, Usher and Rihanna have also performed at the festival.

"It is a momentous occasion and Downsound Entertainment wants to share this with not just Patoranking fans but all of Africa,” said a promoter, explaining why an invitation was extended to the Nigerian. “Patoranking's song, 'My Woman, My Everything', topped dancehall charts on the island and to show a diversity of culture the Nigerian star has been added to Reggae Sumfest's International Night." The International Night usually closes the events of the festival.

Patoranking, who is a judge on the singing talent show The Voice Nigeria, is up for an African Muzik Magazine Award (AFRIMMA) in the Dancehall Act of the Year category. The video for his recent single 'Hale Hale', which is taken from his debut album God Over Everything, was released at the weekend.

Read our review of the album here, and watch the delightful new video below.