Pat McKay and Robert Livingston to be honored for years of service in Jamaican culture.

Robert Livingston, one of the most successful producers in dancehall and veteran New York radio personality Pat McKay, will be honored at the Irie Fashion Rave event in New York City on April 22.

Syntyche ‘Syn’ Dawkins, founder/co producer of Irie Fashion Rave, said with Jamaica celebrating its 50th anniversary of independence from Britain this year, it is important for Jamaicans in the Diaspora to focus on the achievements of people and country.

“We are using the opportunity to honor stalwarts here who have contributed significantly to the promotion of Jamaica’s music and culture,” Dawkins said. “Pat McKay is a leading broadcaster and program director at Sirius Satellite Radio in the tri-state area and Robert Livingston, who through his work as a label executive, artiste manger and music producer have distinguished themselves as true pioneers.”

Dawkins’ sentiments were echoed by marketing director of Irie Jam Radio, Bobby Clarke. He said Livingston has had a remarkable career.

“One only has to look at the accomplishments of Shaggy and Super Cat to understand the impact he has had on the industry,” Clarke explained. “Shaggy is one of the biggest names in reggae/dancehall but even before he (Livingston) signed Shaggy to the Big Yard Music Group, Livingston was instrumental in getting Super Cat signed to Columbia Records.”

McKay, according to Dawkins, is among the most influential radio personalities of Caribbean descent in the United States. Her WBLS Reggae House Party which hit the airwaves back in the 90s was the first ever all-reggae show on commercial radio in that country. – Jamaican Observer

Irie Fashion Rave, which is held annually by Social Eyes Entertainment Inc and New York-based Irie Jam Media, takes place at LQ, 511 Lexington, Manhattan on Sunday, April 25.