Kingston, Jamaica – MECA Nightclub at Marketplace is set to elevate its status as Kingston’s premier party destination with the launch of a new event series that merges the energy of past and present dancehall. The club’s CEO, Michael Dawson, has announced an exciting partnership with dancehall veteran Earl “Fada Earl” Samuels, former manager of iconic nightclubs Cactus and Asylum.
Dawson described the collaboration as a strategic effort to unite different generations of dancehall artists and fans. “We want dancehall to be united,” Dawson said. “Over the years, there has been tension between the current generation of artistes and the originators of the music. Dancehall has had enough external conflicts, and there’s no point in creating divisions within the industry.”
The event series, titled “MECA Meets Cactus,” will take place every Tuesday night, featuring a dynamic mix of music from the ’90s to the present day. The initiative aims to foster synergy within the dancehall community and provide a platform where both seasoned and emerging artists can showcase their talents.
The inaugural event is scheduled for Tuesday, July 30th, and will serve as a tribute to Pinky, the sister of former dancehall queen Carlene, who passed away in 2023 from cancer. The tribute reflects the series’ commitment to honoring dancehall’s rich history while celebrating its ongoing evolution.
Dawson expressed enthusiasm for the series, highlighting MECA’s track record of hosting major events and attracting global celebrities. “This MECA-meets-Cactus vibe is perfect for continuing our tradition of quality entertainment. This event series is for those who truly love and cherish the genre.”
With the launch of “MECA Meets Cactus,” the nightclub aims to create an inclusive space that bridges the gap between dancehall’s vibrant past and its current scene, offering an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.