Jamaica’s biggest stars are coming together for a powerful cause. Sean Paul, Shaggy, and Kes are headlining the upcoming “Jamaica Strong” benefit concert, organized to raise funds for Hurricane Melissa relief efforts after the Category 5 storm devastated parts of Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti on Oct. 28, 2025. The concert is set for Dec. 12 at UBS Arena in New York, with all proceeds going toward rebuilding homes, restoring infrastructure, and supporting displaced families.
According to Billboard, the lineup includes Tessanne Chin, Ky-Mani Marley, Aidonia, Inner Circle, Teejay, Gramps Morgan, Chronic Law, Richie Stephens, Mikey Spice, and T.O.K., with more artists expected to be announced. Event organizer George Crooks of Jammins Events described the benefit as more than just a show: “This is more than a concert — it’s a movement.”
Funds raised will support multiple relief organizations, including Shaggy’s Make a Difference Foundation, Sean Paul’s partnership with Food For The Poor Jamaica, the Irie Jam Radio Foundation, and the Jamaican consulate’s emergency recovery programs, per Rolling Stone.
Sean Paul and Shaggy Lead Relief Efforts
In the days after the storm, Sean Paul took to Instagram to call for donations, pledging to match up to $50,000 through his Sean Paul Foundation in partnership with Food For The Poor Jamaica. “Right now, my island of Jamaica is going through a really tough time,” he wrote. “Families are displaced, homes destroyed, and communities in need of help. Every donation counts, no matter how small. Together, we can make a big difference.”
Meanwhile, Shaggy has been on the ground in Jamaica leading his own relief mission. The reggae legend organized private planes filled with food, water, and medical supplies to deliver aid to the hardest-hit regions. He also provided Starlink satellite devices to restore communication in remote areas, telling Fox Weather that “Jamaica needs you more than ever”
Shaggy later told Rolling Stone that reaching certain communities, such as St. Elizabeth, required hours of clearing roads and navigating flood zones. “People are homeless, there’s no running water, no electricity, no shelter,” he said. “But one thing about Jamaicans — we’re resilient. We all come together to help one another.”
Celebrities Rally to Support Jamaica’s Recovery
Beyond the music community, several celebrities have stepped up to help Jamaica rebuild after Hurricane Melissa. The Weeknd’s XO Humanitarian Fund donated $350,000 to the World Food Programme to provide food kits for up to 200,000 Jamaicans. Nicki Minaj and Beenie Man have also contributed by distributing aid through their respective foundations.
As the island begins to recover, the upcoming concert aims to unite global supporters under one message that Jamaica remains strong.
