Capleton to perform in Canada for first time in 16 years

Reggae and dancehall fans across Canada are anticipating Capleton’s return to the Canadian stage for the first time in 16 years, following the approval of his Canadian work permit. Free People Entertainment and Reynolds Entertainment facilitated Capleton's appearance at the Soul Food Caribbean Festival's Fire in the Park on Canada Day, July 1. 

"It's always a good feeling to reunite with my fans in Canada after more than ten years. I am looking forward to connecting with the fans in Montreal, Toronto, Quebec, Winnipeg, even at the US border like Buffalo, ah long time dem people de no see me. So it is a great joy, it is a great moment for the music and the culture. Fire caan cool!" an elated Capleton said.

Fabian Cole, chief organiser of the Soul Food Caribbean Festival, called Capleton's return a "major historical and cultural moment for reggae and dancehall music". 

The Canadian comeback also highlights reggae’s enduring influence in cities like Toronto and Montreal, where Caribbean culture continues to thrive through music, festivals, and community events. For many supporters, Capleton’s comeback symbolises a reconnection between reggae royalty and a loyal fan base that has waited over a decade and a half for his return.

Tameka Reynolds, chief executive officer of Reynolds Entertainment Agency, hailed Capleton's return as "monumental".

"Capleton was long overdue to perform for his fans in Canada. He commands a huge global following, and he is one of our iconic artistes dedicated to the advancement of the Jamaican culture," Reynolds said, adding, "This is a great moment for the Jamaican diaspora. This is a family-oriented show… . It will be a frenzy in Canada after such a long time away."

Industry insiders expect a strong turnout from both longtime reggae fans and younger audiences interested in experiencing Capleton’s live performances. His shows are known for energetic delivery, audience engagement, and spiritually themed messages that have helped shape his reputation in dancehall culture. 

The deejay’s long-awaited comeback is already creating major buzz throughout the Caribbean diaspora and reggae community.

"Capleton is now working with the industry establishment, a move which has brought his career to a different level. He is now tapping into the lucrative marketplace in UK, and now Canada, which has a huge Jamaican community. We have to ensure that our artistes will be able to service their fan base in these critical markets," Cabel 'Jeffrey' Stephenson, head of Free People Entertainment, said. 

Stephenson is also an executive member of Capleton's management team.

For many fans, the return represents more than just another concert appearance. It marks the re-emergence of one of reggae’s most electrifying live performers in a country that helped shape parts of his early international journey. 

According to biographical records, Canada played a key role in Capleton’s early career when he received one of his first major overseas opportunities in Toronto during the late 1980s.

The excitement surrounding the return comes at a pivotal moment in the artiste’s career. Capleton recently announced that Heights of Fire, his first full-length album in 16 years, is scheduled for release in June. 

The project has already generated anticipation among reggae lovers worldwide, especially following the release of the lead single Red Again which has over 343,000 views on YouTube and 50,000 streams on Spotify.

Throughout his decades-long career, Capleton has remained one of reggae’s most recognisable voices, known for conscious lyrics, energetic performances, and consistent Rastafarian themes.

Songs such as Jah Jah City, That Day Will Come, and Who Dem have played a key role in establishing his place as one of Jamaica’s influential cultural figures.

entertainment@gleanerjm.com