For music lovers, Reggae and American R&B have long been close cousins, inspiring each other across oceans and radio air waves. Now the happy family reunites in Miramar at the upcoming R&B meets Reggae Concert, on Sunday, July 8 at the Miramar Regional Park, starting at 2 p.m.

Seasoned concert promoter Luther McKenzie says the event strives to "highlight our similarities and bury our differences," among music fans. And only the genre's best and brightest will do for this special musical reunion.

Classic R&B crooner Jeffrey Osborne will headline this event. Launching his music career in the 1970s with L.T.D., Osborne became legendary for such hits as "(Every Time I Turn Around) Back in Love Again," "Concentrate on You," "Love Ballad" and "Holding On (When Love Is Gone)." By 1982, Osborne released his self-titled debut album, which featured hit singles, "On the Wings of Love" and "I Really Don't Need No Light." He would continue on to earn five gold and platinum albums.

Reggae legend Ken Boothe, "Mr. Rocksteady" himself, will lead the Caribbean contingent. A world-renowned singer and songwriter, Booth is beloved by Reggae fans for countless great songs, including: the ever popular love ballad "Everything I own," which held the British National Chart's number one spot for months; the classic reggae singles "The Train Is Coming," and "Puppet on a String."

The provocative and sexy Millie Jackson also joins the spotlight. Ever since the release of her 1972 top ten single "Ask Me What You Want," Jackson has been tearing up the dance floor. After a lengthy hiatus from recording, she released her 2002 album, Not for Church Folk, which returns to her "tell-it-like-it-is" lyrical style and urban contemporary sound.

Jamaican songstress and fan favorite Nadine Sutherland also comes to South Florida. A reggae star heavily influenced by R&B, Sutherland burst on the scene at the mere age of 11, when she was signed as one of the first artists for Bob Marley's Tuff Gong label. Sutherland went on to work for Donovan Germain at his Penthouse Studios, where she collaborated with fellow Florida favorite, Buju Banton, on hits such as "Action," "Wicked Dickie," and What Am I Gonna Do."

Transnational favorite Dorothy Moore will also perform. The Mississippi-born soul singer is most loved by Caribbean fans for such songs as her 1976 hit "Misty Blue," "If you give me your heart," and "Laugh it off." And Moore is more than happy to return the love, enjoying her Caribbean fans for making her "sing songs I forgot I recorded."

Reggae balladeer Singing Melody will be a special treat for the ladies as R&B meets Reggae. Adored for his silky smooth voice, his energy and his winning smile, Singing Melody boasts a string of solo hits and popular renditions of R&B classics.

South Florida's own Kashief Lindo will also make his grand return to the Florida stage at R&B meets Reggae. The popular reggae musician, producer and songwriter will perform his latest hits, including songs from his reggae tribute album to pop great, Michael Jackson, called Remembering Michael Jackson.

Also appearing will be up-and-coming artist J.R. Evan and the incomparable Code Red Band. Miramar's own Winston Barnes and BET's Comic View comedian, the ever hilarious Rayzor, will host the event.
The food and craft vendors will also join in on the transnational spirit, offering a diverse and delectable food spread for patrons to sample.

"Think callaloo meets collard greens and jerk meets barbecue," jokes McKenzie.

In addition to the usual designated seating area set up for concert viewing, patron can also opt to enjoy the good vibes from the VIP section. VIP access at R&B meets Reggae includes free parking backstage, two free drinks, free hors d'oeuvres, and a private bar.

Doors to this special concert open at 2 p.m., with show time starting at 3 p.m. sharp. Tickets are priced at $25 for standing room, $35, $45, $55 for seating areas and $75 for VIP. Children under 15 are admitted free to the standing room area only.

For more information about R&B meets Reggae concert, visit their website at friendsfamilyforever.com or call 305 778-7228.