RRU Day 4 The Final Day of 2023

Wiz Khalifa - Photo by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson

When the sun rose on the final day of Reggae Rise Up, an overwhelming sadness lingered in the crisp March air. After three days of non-stop music, good vibes, and unforgettable experiences, it felt impossible that it was all coming to an end. Despite the bittersweet feelings that I felt, the excitement coursed through my bones, as the last day promised a line up that oozed with amazing acts. 

The thoughts of Wiz Khalifa, Pepper, Dirty Heads, Alborosie all hitting the stage in one day quickened my heart rate, but also my journey over to the festival grounds. Undoubtedly, each of the acts are all legendary in their own right, but together in one day created an excitement unlike any other. While walking through the always beautiful Vinoy Park, a fan equated it to Christmas in March.

All through the park, people of all ages and backgrounds gathered together, all smiling, dancing, and enjoying the last moments of an incredible weekend. With the smells of sweet sensimilla and food wafting through the air, everyone’s senses tingled for what’s to come.

Straight from Sarasota, Florida, Neverless opened the day with a wild set, by melding the sounds of ska and reggae with the sounds of punk rock. Even the excitement couldn’t escape the band’s frontman, TJ Collins, because a giant smile gleaned from each corner of his singing mouth.

Neverless - Photos by Phil DeSimone

Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson

J Boog - Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson & Zack Kearney

Alborosie - Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson & Zack Kearney

Dirty Heads - Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson & Zack Kearney

Before I knew it, fans gathered around the Vibe Stage, eagerly anticipating the arrival of Pepper and the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the band’s seminal album, Kona Town. As the chords of "Stone Love" rang out across the festival grounds, the crowd erupted in cheers. From that moment on, there was no doubt it was going to be a special set. Each song elicited memories and emotions from everyone who grew up with Pepper.

Pepper - Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson & Zack Kearney

As fans ran over to the Rise Up stage, the atmosphere filled with excitement and bewilderment, and as the rapper stepped out onto the stage, the crowd erupted in a wild frenzy of cheers. The Taylor Gang representative wasted no time in getting the party started, launching into a high-energy set that had the crowd jumping and singing along. But amidst the raucous beats and pulsing rhythms, there was a moment of introspection and reflection knowing that the end of the night crept ever closer.

As Wiz performed with passion and emotion, the crowd joined in with their own voices, creating a hauntingly beautiful chorus that echoed across the festival grounds. During his song “See You Again,” Wiz Khalifa took a moment to honor the artists we've recently lost, including his longtime collaborator and friend Mac Miller. The mood of the set shifted dramatically, as the crowd swayed to the music and held up their lighters and phone lights in tribute to the fallen artists. The crowd remained transfixed, as if unwilling to let the moment end.

Wiz Khalifa - Photos by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson & Zack Kearney

While walking through Vinoy Park for the final time, it was impossible not to feel the sense of community and togetherness that Reggae Rise Up Florida has fostered over the years. Each year that I’ve attended, fans become united by the sounds of music and the experiences that the festival brings. I’ve seen friends transform into family, form Rise Up traditions, and create memories to last long after the festival ends.

Review by Brendan Mcginley

Photo’s by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson, Zack Kearney and Phil DeSimone

Video by Brian “Porkchop” Nicholson, Zack Kearney and audio by Badda Skat