The world is fascinated with Jamaican Dancehall.
The dances, the culture, and the outright passion and sexuality of it make the world sit up and pay attention.
From Korean dance troupes coming to Jamaica to learn the latest dancehall moves, to celebrities including Nicole Scherzinger choreographing a routine to a Sean Paul hit, the world loves a driving Dancehall rhythm.
Although many of these dances are more commercialized now, the vibe of the old-school neighborhood corner dance is still alive.
For someone not from Jamaica, or even from the neighborhoods, a session or “dance” (Jamaican for Dancehall party) can be an assault on the senses.
To help you navigate your way through the most authentic street dances on the island’s best nights, here is a list of the most popular Dancehall sessions in Jamaica.
Wet Sundaze, Kingston
Sundays come alive on Hillview Avenue between 10 pm to 2 am.
Be a spectator or jump into the action yourself to truly make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
There is a cover cost of a “nanny” – that’s street slang for JM $500 – so walk with some cash to get in and feed your thirst at the bar when you need a break.
Get to Wet Sundaze: The Plaza at 8 Hillview Avenue in Kingston.
Mojito Mondays, Kingston
The parking lot at Southdale Plaza on Constant Spring Road jumps into full gear every Monday night.
Get there early enough for sweet treats and soup from 876 Terrace Bar & Grill.
A favorite with tourists, you’re likely to see a dreadlocked, sandal-wearing American vibing to the music next to the towering block of speakers, while next to him a Japanese girl is busy ‘brukkin out’ with the latest moves.
Get to Mojito Mondays: 1 Southdale Plaza, Constant Spring road.
Pepperseed, Kingston
A throwback to the best of 90s dancehall, Pepperseed attracts a more seasoned, mature crowd than most street dances that currently happening.
Bonus: it’s free to enter!
Get to Pepperseed: Pulse Complex at 38a Trafalgar Road in Kingston.
Wappings Thursdays, Kingston
There’s no cover charge for Wappings Thursdays at Mahoe Drive in Cockburn Pen, Kingston, but make sure to bring some Jamaican cash for drinks at the bar and jerk chicken after hours.
Sample a bit of history knowing this dance was created to bring the community together after gang warfare when it was started by Bobby ‘Phantom’ Kerr.
Get to Wappings Thursdays: Mahoe Drive in Cockburn Pen.
Are you ready?
So, are you ready to experience Jamaican Dancehall nightlife?
The way some of the women are handled on the floor can be offensive to outsiders, while some sessions are best only attended by a local connection from the area as an escort.
The more organized dances on Constant Spring Road may be a better place to start as your introduction to the real Jamaican Dancehall culture.
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