Reggae on the Mountain, a beloved annual festival nestled in the heart of Topanga Canyon, has grown from a small grassroots event into a staple of Southern California’s reggae scene. This is not just another festival; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the love of roots music, brought to life by a group of friends who had a vision and the passion to make it a reality.
A Dream in Topanga
The story of Reggae on the Mountain begins in the small, tight-knit community of Topanga Canyon. Founded by childhood friends Brooks Ellis and his partner, Amit Gilad, the festival was born out of their shared love for music, community, and throwing epic parties.
“We grew up in Topanga, and during high school, we played in a band. We used to host these big backyard parties that brought people together and created a sense of culture,” Gilad recalls.
These backyard gatherings were more than just parties; they were the seed that would grow into something much bigger. Inspired by the joy and unity these events brought, Gilad and his friends decided to take their love for community and reggae music to the next level. At the age of 18, they approached the Topanga Community Center with a proposal to host a small reggae festival.
The community center took a chance on these young visionaries, providing them with a modest budget to get started. The first Reggae on the Mountain was a grassroots event, but it was an instant hit. “People just loved it, so we kept doing it,” says Gilad. Now, 14 years later, the festival has become a cornerstone of the local culture, with 12 successful events under its belt.
A Festival With Heart
What sets Reggae on the Mountain apart from other festivals is its authenticity and the genuine love for the genre and community that drives it. “It’s just a couple of good friends trying to do something real and honor the genre,” Gilad explains. This authenticity resonates with attendees, who return year after year to experience the unique atmosphere that can only be found at Reggae on the Mountain.
The festival is a testament to what can be achieved when passion and community come together. Unlike many large-scale events that are driven by profit, Reggae on the Mountain is all about the love of music and bringing people together. “Festivals are about human connection,” Gilad says. “When you have organizers who do it out of love for the genre and the community, it creates a different atmosphere.”
A Homecoming to Topanga
After years of growth and a brief relocation to Malibu and Santa Barbara, Reggae on the Mountain is returning to its roots in Topanga Canyon. “This year is a homecoming for us,” Gilad proudly announces.
“Topanga is where we always wanted to be, and we’re so happy to be back.”
The festival’s return to Topanga is more than just a change of venue; it’s a reaffirmation of its commitment to the community that gave it life. Topanga has a rich musical history, and Reggae on the Mountain is now a vital part of that legacy. “It’s a blessing to be able to share this with Greater LA and invite everyone to our home to get a taste of the vibes here,” says Gilad.
Celebrating Diversity in Music
Over the years, Reggae on the Mountain has become known for its diverse and thoughtfully curated lineups. From legendary roots artists like Toots and the Maytals, Ziggy Marley, and Steel Pulse to contemporary Cali reggae acts and emerging Mexican-American reggae artists, the festival offers something for everyone.
“As a musician, I aim to book incredible acts that are fantastic entertainers and top-notch talent,” Gilad explains. The festival’s lineups reflect the rich cultural tapestry of Los Angeles, incorporating roots reggae, Chicano reggae, and the ever-evolving Cali reggae scene.
“There’s a massive Chicano reggae scene in LA,” says Ellis. “It’s incredible to see the blend of reggae, cumbia, and ska with that Latin flavor.” This diversity is what makes Reggae on the Mountain special, offering a unique experience that celebrates the global influence of reggae music.
The Future of Reggae on the Mountain
As Reggae on the Mountain continues to grow, the founders remain committed to their original vision. They understand the challenges of running a festival but are driven by their passion for music and community.
“It’s a marathon, not a sprint,” Gilad reflects. “If you keep looking forward and take the necessary steps, you can succeed.”
With a loyal fan base and a reputation for authenticity, Reggae on the Mountain is poised to continue its journey as one of Southern California’s most beloved music festivals. As it returns to Topanga Canyon, the festival is not just a celebration of reggae music but a testament to the power of community, culture, and the love of music.