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Getting an opportunity to perform at a major reggae event like Sting or Reggae Sumfest is sometimes all a reggae/dancehall artiste needs to get that big ‘buss’ to make them an international star. This year at Irie Jamboree, slated to take place on Labor Day Sunday, September 6, 2009 at York College Outdoor Complex in Queens, the promoters will give a number of rising stars from Jamaica, Toronto and New York the opportunity to ‘buss’ before a crowd that is expected to swell to 30,000 before the event concludes at 9pm.

One artiste that has benefited from the Irie Jamboree experience is the ‘strong one’ Etana, a singer with one of the most sensational sounds in the roots reggae genre. When she graced the Jamboree stage in 2007, she was still relatively new on the scene. Arguably one of the most prolific female vocalists in the reggae genre today, Etana has emerged as a major force, topping the charts with her debut album titled “The Strong One” and popular singles “Roots,” “Free” and “Blessings” that have rocked the reggae world and garnered airplay on radio stations around the globe.

Last year reggae singer Barbee attended Irie Jamboree as a spectator. This year she returns as a performer having made her mark, performing on several events from coast to coast. Barbee is back stateside, after an extended trip to Jamaica which saw her plugging her new single ‘Feels So Good’, produced by maestro Dean Fraser on the new Barbee rhythm. Since gaining attention for her whirlwind friendship with Beenieman, she has proved herself to be an artiste with substance with her hot single “Love You Anyway” that has graced reggae charts globally. The video has enjoyed rotation on all the major cable networks in Jamaica including RE TV, Juice TV and HYPE TV. The bombshell beauty is set to make her Irie Jamboree debut on September 6 where she is promising to ignite the stage with a hot performance that will leave tongues wagging and fans wanting more.

Dancehall DJ Lushy Banton was hardly back in New Jersey from his sizzling performance at the Festival of Life concert in Chicago when news broke that he had been added to the already impressive lineup for this year’s Irie Jamboree 2009. Lushy zoomed on to the front pages and major concert stages last year with after the release his hit single and video clip Obama in the middle of the 2008 presidential campaign, undoubtedly winning votes for Obama and new fans for himself. The song also earned him a multiple accolades, including an IRAWMA nomination in the Best Obama Song category.

Rising star Troublesum has been touring the Caribbean and getting rave reviews for his performances and hit singles “Remember My Name” and “Replacement.” He recently blazed the stage in Miami, Florida at the “BEST of the BEST” concert, where he delivered an unforgettable performance which left fans and the media wanting more. What can fans expect from Troublesum at Irie Jamboree this year? An electrifying performance that is sure to quench your musical thirst.

Irie Jamboree also welcomes Canadian reggae imports Humble, Steele and Tasha T who are all making their names and music known internationally. Garnishing Canada’s most prestigious award for the “Best Reggae Recording”, Humble holds the 2009 Juno along with his most recent award, “Artist of the Year” that was presented this year at the 3rd Annual Reggae Music Achievement Awards. It is a fitting title given his recent success.

Steele continues to heat up the musical circuit in Canada, and the world with his sweet singing voice and masterful showmanship. Mr. Energetic which he’s affectionately called recently received “The Peoples Choice Award” from the Jamaica Day Committee. Steele is a constant crowd pleaser with solid performances at Rebel Salute and the annual Peter Tosh Birthday Celebration in Jamaica a few years ago. Known for hits like “Uncorrupted”, and “The Love of Jah”, Steele intends to continue his mission of empowerment and upliftment for the massive with his blend of lovers’ rock which teases and his conscious music which provoke the mind.

Toronto based reggae diva Tasha T is making great music and her stocks are definitely on the rise. After a fairly quiet 2007, Tasha started 08 with a bang, releasing several new releases including, “I Forgive You” and the chart topper “Hold Me.” The multi award winning artiste continues to make the rounds, performing in Jamaica, Canada and in the USA. Having already performed at Reggae Sunsplash and the “Love has No Boundaries Tour” with Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths, and Maxi Priest, she is rearing to leave her mark at Irie Jamboree this year.

Aside from the rising stars who will perform at Irie Jamboree this year, organizers of North America’s premier reggae festival have also confirmed international DJ Sean Paul, Queen Ifrica, Freddy McGregor, TOK, Mr. Vegas, Assassin, Laden, Spice, Tony Rebel, Chino, Pinchers, Shinehead, Daddy Lizard, Flourgon and Lady G.