The Maestro Marley Cup was c-founded by Ky-Mani Marley and Big Hair Dave of The Dubplates to help raise funds for the Love Over All Foundation. The Love Over All Foundation (LOAF) helps communities in South Florida and Jamaica in need through sports and music. Last year
Ky-Mani Marley joined with foundation donated tens of thousands of dollars to communities in the U.S.
This year’s staging of the Maestro Marley Cup takes place will coinage with a music festival on Saturday, September 2 at ArtsPark at Young Circle in downtown Hollywood, FL.
WMV speaks with the co-founder “Big Hair Dave” about the event and what to expect at the upcoming charity event.
What inspired you to create the Maestro Marley Cup, combining reggae music, soccer, and Caribbean food?
KY-Mani and I were learning to kiteboard together at Real Watersports in the Outer Banks of NC. He told me about his charity Love Over All and the Falmouth United Football Team. We came up with the idea for the Cup. The first event was held in my hometown of Charleston, SC in 2018. Falmouth United with KY-Mani Marley and Spragga Benz faced off against the Charleston Battery in the game. KY-Mani Marley, Spragga Benz, Yellowman, Mix Master Mike of the Beastie Boys and my band The Dubplates performed. It was an amazing event.
Can you tell us more about the charitable cause that this event supports?
The event supports the LOVE ALL OVER FOUNDATION (LOAF) through its keynote project, Falmouth United. This project provides a soccer center and team, offering a safe space for Jamaican youth to stay off the streets and invest in their future. Funds raised from last year’s event benefited the community by adding electricity to the sports center, providing new shoes, uniforms, gear, coaches’ salaries, transportation for tournaments, and essential meals, among other things.
How did the idea of bringing together the Marley Brothers for a performance in Florida come about?
Florida is the ideal home for this event since KY-MANI and his Brothers live there. The event centers around bringing family together, and the Marley Brothers’ performance is a special experience. Florida’s love for reggae and soccer, along with support from the City of Hollywood and Visit Lauderdale visitors bureau, made it the perfect location.
What can attendees expect from the live performances by artists like Inner Circle, Damian Marley, and Julian Marley?
The event kicks off at noon with a 6 vs. 6 soccer tournament, featuring Dubwise DJs during the tournament. Live performances start at 4 pm and are headlined by the Marley Brothers: Ky-Mani, Stephen, Damian, and Julian. Additionally, there will be performances from Spragga Benz, Inner Circle, Allison Hinds, I-Octane, Shacia Marley, KJ Marley, Kastin Marley, Runkus, Yung Wildn, Locos Por Juana, The Dubplates, and Dubwise.
Could you share some details about the 6 vs. 6 soccer tournament, including how teams can participate and the prize?
The 6 vs. 6 tournament features a mix of Marleys, celebrities, athletes, artists, and guests who sign up online to play. The winning team earns a cash prize and the honor of having their name on the Cup.
What other activities or entertainment will be available for families and attendees besides the music and soccer?
Beyond music and soccer, attendees can enjoy a mobile arcade, games, yoga, face painting, and various other activities for children.
Can you elaborate on the types of Caribbean food and cultural vendors that will be present at the event?
The event will host numerous food and cultural vendors, including Caribbean Food Trucks, Plant-Based Food Trucks, Fresh Juices, Desserts, and more. Culture vendors will also offer clothing, jewelry, and various types of merchandise.
Are there any special highlights or surprises planned for this year’s Maestro Marley Cup?
There are indeed surprises planned for both the field and the stage, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
How has the event evolved since its inception, and what are your hopes for its future?
The journey from concept to reality with KY-MANI has been incredible. The move to Florida was a significant step forward, and we hope to continue growing. The sky’s the limit for the Maestro Marley Cup, and we aspire to become even bigger than the World Cup, thanks to our unique blend of music and soccer.
Can you explain the significance of the Maestro Marley Cup to the community and the partnership with David “Big Hair” Brisacher?
The Maestro Marley Cup is a unifying experience for the entire family, bringing together the community through music, soccer, and love. Partnering with KY-MANI MARLEY and promoting the Love Over All message to the world is a true honor. To join the celebration, you can get your tickets at www.maestromarleycup.com.
