The last day of a festival is always bittersweet, but fans came to the fairgrounds early to take in as much of Cali Roots as they could. Day three began as festival goers trickled in just as New Kingston wrapped up their sound check. Walking through the gates of the fairgrounds with this live music already playing earlier than usual proved an uplifting and exciting experience to the festival. Starting the day with New Kingston set a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Memorial Day weekend, Monterey Fairgrounds played host to the ninth annual, three-day reggae movement known as Cali Roots. In the three days, Grateful Web was at Cali Roots, there was one word we just kept hearing over and over again; “Homecoming.” From fans we met in the crowd to artists we spoke with behind the scenes, it seemed to be the magic word that everyone could relate to. But to say Cali Roots is a homecoming would be if anything, an understatement.

Cleveland Ohio might not be the reggae capital of the world, but the grit and determination to establish themselves despite locational barriers made the men of Tropidelic all the more eager to make their dream a reality. From dorm room project to a nationally touring band, their momentum shows no sign of slowing down.

Australian born and New Zealand raised, Sammy Johnson, is an interesting person to describe. From homeless to a household name, his story is inspiring, and his passion for his art shows in every facet of his life. With wisdom beyond his years and an over the top personality to match, there are not many who meet him who do not immediately form a strong opinion of him, far more often good than bad. An extrovert, to say the least, he makes it his mission to make his audience feel the same love for music that he does.

Grammy-nominated reggae act Raging Fyah has traveled far from their home of Kingston Jamaica to spread their message. One of modern-day Jamaica’s most popular and successful bands, they have had no lack of a platform to display their music. Their classic sound is a constant reminder of the roots that founded reggae music. An interpretation of a genre that is untainted and pure focusing on themes of spirituality delivered with an optimistic view.

When asking anyone the question “what is the most important thing in your life?” two of the most common answers one might expect to hear would be “family” or “music”. At their roots, New Kingston lives at this crossroads. Composed of members of the Panton family, their relationship brings an added layer to their chemistry to the band. The result is a show between band members who so clearly understand and care about each other on a profoundly deep level.

California Roots, the premier reggae and roots music festival, have teamed up again with LiveList, the #1 source for live streaming concerts worldwide, and Weedmaps, the top cannabis dispensary finder and lifestyle brand to power the 2018 California Roots Music & Arts Festival live from Monterey, CA on May 25-27, 2018.
 

The ninth annual California Roots Music and Arts Festival will take place at the Monterey County Fair and Event Center from May 25-27, 2018. To celebrate, California Roots is bringing back a second volume of their popular vinyl release series begun in 2017. The limited edition vinyl album has a unique splatter design, mixing four colors and housed in a gatefold jacket spread. The album features songs from artists on this year’s line-up, including an exclusive unreleased song from Slightly Stoopid.

It’s that time again, folks. The one and only California Roots is coming around again, and this year’s festival promises to be the best one yet. Over just less than a decade, Cali Roots has evolved from a small get together into a family reunion of sorts for Reggae fans from near and far. For so many, Cali Roots is more than three days of Reggae music, it is a small peek into what life can be in a world with a little less animosity, and a little more love.

The 9th annual California Roots Music and Arts Festival will take place at the historic Monterey County Fair & Event Center from May 25-27 2018. The top tier national festival has become the premier gathering for the progressive U.S. reggae and positive roots movement, bringing in over 40,000 fans to the bay area over the Memorial Day weekend. National press accolades from Forbes, Billboard, and The Huffington Post keep recognizing the event for its leadership in greening, live streaming, art exhibitions, and overall community vibe.