This month, the Rototom Sunsplash festival took place in its 29th edition, bringing together thousands of fans from around the world in Benicàssim, Spain. This week-long event is now considered one of the most important reggae festivals in Europe.
History of the Festival
In 1991, the festival was born in the small Italian town of Gaio di Spilimbergo. The Rototom Cultural Association was established on December 13 of that year. Along with it, a nightclub of the same name opened. This club became a hub for alternative music. It featured genres from punk rock to reggae, indie, and electronic music. The name “Rototom” was inspired by the rototom drum, symbolizing the club’s ability to produce a variety of musical sounds.
By 1997, the club had moved to Zoppola. It expanded to three rooms, each dedicated to different genres: rock, pop, and rap in one; reggae and African music in another; and electronic music in the third. Over the years, the club hosted performances by iconic bands and artists like the Ramones, Massive Attack, Burning Spear, and Black Uhuru, among many others.
In 1994, the Rototom Sunsplash festival was born as a self-financed project. The event, initially held over a weekend, quickly grew in popularity, attracting thousands of attendees. By 1998, the festival relocated to Latisana to accommodate its growing audience, and it continued to expand in size and scope. The year 2000 marked a significant turning point when the festival moved to Osoppo, transforming into a major European event.
In 2010, Rototom Sunsplash found its new home in Benicàssim, Spain. Political opposition forced it to leave Italy. Since then, the festival has continued to flourish, attracting a global audience. Now, it is one of the most significant reggae festivals in the world.
Rototom Sunsplash 2024
The 2024 edition of Rototom Sunsplash was a spectacular celebration of reggae and global culture. Fans from every corner of the world gathered. Held from August 16 to 21 in Benicàssim, Spain, this year’s festival showcased an incredible lineup that featured both legendary reggae icons and rising stars.
The festival kicked off with performances by Alpha Blondy, Mo’Kalamity, and the Fully Fullwood Band, setting the stage for a week filled with vibrant music and positive vibes. Highlights included appearances by Andrew Tosh, Black Uhuru, Busy Signal, and the legendary Wailers. Fans were also treated to performances by modern reggae stars like Alborosie and Jesse Royal, as well as crossover acts like Chambao and SFDK, blending reggae with other musical genres.
Beyond the main stage, the festival continued to embrace its holistic approach to culture. It offered workshops, discussions, and activities that focused on themes of peace, sustainability, and social justice. Attendees could also explore a variety of cultural spaces dedicated to African dance, meditation, and creative arts.
As always, the festival maintained its commitment to being self-financed, relying solely on ticket sales and avoiding commercial sponsorships, staying true to its roots and principles.
Looking Ahead: The 30th Anniversary in 2025
As the festival looks forward to its 30th anniversary in 2025, the Rototom Sunsplash team is already planning what promises to be a landmark event. The festival has become more than just a music event through its nearly three decades of history. It’s a symbol of unity, culture, and the enduring power of reggae music. Fans from all over the world are eagerly anticipating what the next edition will bring.
To keep the festival vibes going, we’ve curated a Spotify playlist inspired by Rototom Sunsplash. Dive into the rhythms of reggae and feel the spirit of the festival wherever you are!