DJ Khaled confirmed for Mavado concert

International star DJ Khaled has been announced as the first act on the entertainment line-up for the highly anticipated Reggae Fest Jamaica -The Return of the Gully Gad Mavado, which will feature dancehall star Mavado as the main headliner on December 27.

The announcement was first made by the event's promoter, CJ Milan, on Instagram on Thursday afternoon and later shared by Mavado with the caption, "What a night it's going to be".

There have been talks of a concert since Mavado's surprise arrival on the island last week. The date and show were confirmed on Tuesday, with fans dubbing the December event a 'Gully Christmas'.

Mavado, who had remained overseas since a 2018 warrant was issued for his arrest on a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, returned to Jamaica on October 14. The charge was subsequently dropped following a meeting with his lawyer and law enforcement officials.

Supporters have hailed the announcement, with DJ Khaled leading out what is expected to be an exciting line-up. The Grammy-winning producer also commented on Milan's post, saying, "Mavado put the call in, so just know I'm there. Let's make more history, let's celebrate more blessings. We the best, love and respect."

The American deejay and business mogul, who recently collaborated on the Billboard-hitting single You Remind Me with Mavado and fellow entertainers Vybz Kartel, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Rory Stone Love and Kaylan Arnold, has in recent years strengthened his ties to the Jamaican music scene. His visits to the island have often included meetings with local artistes.

Khaled has also worked on several local projects with reggae stars such as Sizzla Kalonji and Capleton, as well as dancehall artiste Skillibeng, and has signed Jamaican talents to his We The Best Music label.

DJ Khaled has publicly described himself as an "honorary Jamaican" and often expresses his love for the island, which he said helped shape and fuel his career. He was first exposed to reggae and dancehall music while working at a Miami-based Caribbean pirate radio station and later at urban music radio station 99 Jamz.

Reggae Fest Jamaica is promoted by Milan, whose Reggae Fest Tour has had several successful runs internationally, featuring major acts such as Vybz Kartel, Capleton, Shenseea, Bounty Killer, and Elephant Man. This next leg of the tour will now see Mavado headlining on home soil.