Celebrating Dancehall: Oneil Famous Honored at Dancehall Thursday
On August 14, the vibrant atmosphere of Kingston was electrified as Oneil “Oneil Famous” Darby received a heartfelt tribute during his weekly Dancehall Thursday show. Patrick Needham, representing The Ramping Shop Family, presented a trophy to Oneil, recognizing his significant contributions to the dancehall-reggae scene. The event was a true celebration of Jamaican culture, with notable figures like Gairy Webb, Peter Metro, and sound system operator Beetle Bailey also in attendance.
Reviving the Rub-a-Dub Vibes
Three years ago, Oneil Famous launched Dancehall Thursday with a mission: to bring back the rub-a-dub vibes that defined his youth in the 1980s. “I wanted to create a space where the music I loved could thrive again,” he shared. Today, this weekly event has become one of Kingston’s hottest tickets, drawing crowds eager to experience the rich sounds of reggae and dancehall.
Honoring Legends
During the August 14 show, The Ramping Shop Family didn’t just honor Oneil. They also recognized the contributions of Allan “Skill” Cole, a former manager of reggae icon Bob Marley, and music producer Whitfield “Witty” Henry. Each received a trophy for their invaluable impact on the music industry. “Di award means a lot to me because I’ve been in dis industry since 1982,” Oneil expressed, highlighting the importance of recognition from the Diaspora.
A Journey Through Music
Originally hailing from Matthews Lane in West Kingston, Oneil’s journey into music began in 1986, inspired by legendary deejays like Ranking Joe and Josey Wales. His passion for the craft has led him to host a platform that showcases veteran artists, including the likes of Josey Wales, Leroy Gibbons, and Nadine Sutherland. “It’s about honoring those who paved the way,” Oneil emphasized, reflecting on the importance of preserving the history of dancehall.
Celebrating Football and Music
Allan “Skill” Cole, at 75, is not just a music figure but also a celebrated footballer. His legacy in Jamaican football is unmatched, having played for top clubs like Santos and Nautico in Brazil during the 1970s. Cole is also credited with writing “War,” a powerful track from Marley’s iconic album Rastaman Vibration. His dual influence in sports and music makes him a revered figure in Jamaican culture.
Witty’s Musical Legacy
Whitfield “Witty” Henry has been a key player in the reggae scene since 2001, promoting the popular Uptown Mondays dance in Kingston. His earlier work in New York City with the Music Master and Witty labels helped shape the reggae landscape. Witty has produced hits for artists like Barrington Levy and Tinga Stewart, leaving a lasting mark on the genre.
Supporting the Community
In a touching gesture, The Ramping Shop Family also presented a cheque to Major Mackerel to assist with his medical expenses. Known for his hits like “Pretty Looks Done,” Major Mackerel has faced health challenges, losing part of his leg to diabetes. This support underscores the community spirit that thrives within the Jamaican music scene.
A Night to Remember
As the night unfolded, the energy was palpable, with the audience celebrating the rich tapestry of Jamaican music. Oneil Famous’s Dancehall Thursday continues to be a beacon for artists and fans alike, reminding everyone of the power of music to unite and uplift. What will the next chapter hold for this vibrant event? Only time will tell, but the rhythm of dancehall is alive and well in Kingston.