Four female artistes to receive Keys to the City of New Jersey

On August 1–2, Patterson, New Jersey’s Mayor Andre Sayegh will present the Key to the City to Sister Nancy, Minister Marion Hall, Lady G and Lila Iké, as the centrepiece of the Bill McKoy Foundation’s 10th Annual Jamaica Day Celebration at Eastside Park.

Sister Nancy, one of the first female dancehall deejays to break through internationally is marking more than four decades since her 1982 track Bam Bam became reggae’s most sampled song. The track has been sampled by artistes from hip hop legend Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Kanye West and Jr Gong Marley.

“We are deeply honoured to have Sister Nancy at Jamaica Day this year, as we celebrate her incredible achievements,” said Bill McKoy, founder of the Bill McKoy Foundation. “Her music has transcended borders, united people across cultures, and continues to inspire audiences around the world.”

Minister Marion Hall, formerly known as Lady Saw before a 2015 spiritual turn redirected her career toward ministry, will be honoured at Sunday’s Gospel Fest.

“Minister Marion Hall’s remarkable testimony is one of courage, redemption, and unwavering faith,” McKoy said. “Her decision to dedicate her gifts and platform to glorifying God has inspired countless individuals around the world.”

Lady G, born Janice Fyffe, will be honoured for more than 30 years having helped to open dancehall’s doors to the women who followed her.

“Lady G has earned her place among the legends of Jamaican music,” McKoy said. “She has proudly represented Jamaica across the world while helping to define an era of dancehall music. It is our privilege to recognise her extraordinary legacy.”

Grammy-nominated reggae singer Lila Iké, is being recognised for bringing reggae’s message of unity and justice to a new generation.

“Lila Iké represents the future of reggae music while honouring the rich legacy of those who paved the way before her,” McKoy said. “Her remarkable talent, inspiring message, and commitment to preserving the authenticity of reggae have earned her worldwide respect.”

Event producer Matthew McKoy said the four presentations reflect just how far Jamaica Day has come since the foundation launched it a decade ago.

“Ten years ago, this festival started as a way to give our community a place to come together and celebrate who we are,” he said. “To be here a decade later with a lineup this powerful, honouring both our anniversary and 64 years of Jamaican independence, is something special. This isn’t just a concert, it’s a homecoming.”

He added that this year’s roster covers reggae’s full spectrum. “When you add Lady G, Rhoda Isabella, and Golda McFarlane, you have every generation and every part of our culture represented on one stage. That’s exactly what Jamaica Day is supposed to be.”

The free, family-friendly concert will feature Jamaican food, cultural exhibits, artisan vendors, and youth activities.