This weekend, Reggae on the Mountain returns to Southern California’s idyllic Topanga Canyon for a full day on music and culture on July 26.
This marks the 13th edition Reggae on the Mountain, and the fest continues to prove why it’s the best reggae event in LA.
“What’s so great about Los Angeles and Southern California is the incredible fusion of Latin music and reggae emerging from the area,” remarked festival co-founders Brooks Ellis and Amit Gilad. “We invite everyone to join us July 26, 2025, to celebrate art, music, and love!”
Tickets to Reggae on the Mountain can be purchased here. With free parking and free admission for children 10 and under, the festival offers an exciting and affordable even for fans of all ages.
The 2025 edition of Reggae on the Mountain features an eclectic mix of established reggae headliners alongside the next generation of stars. Here’s a quick preview of some of the acts who are playing:
Julian Marley
One of the most prolific members of reggae’s royal family, Julian Marley has been making music for more than 30 years. After initially finding success alongside his brothers in Ghetto Youths Crew, Julian launched his solo career in the mid-90s. The singer has passionate fans across the globe and has enjoyed many high-profile performances, including an appearance at the 2008 Olympics. More recently, Julian took home the Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 2024 for his collaborative album with Antaeus, Colors of Royal.
Sister Nancy
Trailblazing Jamaican singer Sister Nancy is known as the first female dancehall DJ. Her impact resonates throughout generations of reggae artists, earning her a reputation as one of the genre’s defining voices. Even casual reggae fans will know Sister Nancy’s 1982 tune “Bam Bam.” The classic track has been sampled more than 100 times, including songs by Jay-Z, Lauren Hill, Janelle Monae and Kanye West.
Marlon Asher
Trinidadian reggae singer Marlon Asher is often referred to as “Ganja Farmer” – the name taken from his 2006 hit song. Fans can find joy and positivity in his music, regardless of whether they share his affinity for the herb. “My music is not about promoting hate and violence, it’s about uplifting people. I may not be able to change the world, but I can lead people into thinking differently about life and living with each other,” the singer has remarked. Asher has shared the stage with many of reggae’s biggest names, having toured with Slightly Stoopid, Fortunate Youth and Beenie Man in the past.
Arise Roots
Reggae on the Mountain will be a homecoming show for Arise Roots, which formed in LA in 2010. The group – made up of Karim Israel (vocals), Todd “Rootsbubbler” Johnson (keyboards), Robert “Sloedub” Sotelo (guitar), Rodolfo “Rudy” Covarrubias (bass), Chris Brennan (guitar), and Hashim “Scorpion” Russell (drums) – adds a modern spin on the roots reggae sound. Their most recent album, Dubways, was released in 2023.
Vana Liya
Singer-songwriter was raised with a wide range of musical influences, ranging from soca, calypso, dancehall and reggae music. After being gifted a ukulele from her mother, the young singer began recording unique covers of well-known reggae rock tunes, quickly developing a following on YouTube. In 2018, Vana Liya became the first female solo artist signed by LAW Records. She’s since shared the stage with SOJA, Pepper, The Expendables and The Movement (among others). Her debut album Little Kahuna was released in 2021.
Jesse James Pariah
Jesse James Pariah is a major part of reggae rock’s next wave of stars. The surfer singer-songwriter is aligned with some of the genre’s hottest acts, regularly collaborating with DENM, Landon McNamara and Sublime’s Jakob Nowell. Jesse’s music features an eclectic mix of influences – you can hear everything from the Doors to Eminem woven within his musical palette. Single “Horns Under Halo,” released earlier this year, has garnered Pariah major attention, including radio airplay across the country. Later this summer he’ll join Sublime, Pennywise, the Vandals and more at the Fear, Loathing & Sublime event in Las Vegas.
Related posts:
INTERVIEW: Professional Surfer and Reggae-Rock Artist Makua Rothman Talks New Album, and Going Viral Riding 100-Foot Wave 
Reggae on the Mountain: A Festival Rooted in Community and Culture 
INTERVIEW: Reggae on The Mountain’s Amit Gilad Talks About Bringing Ziggy Marley & Steel Pulse To Santa Barbara 
Reggae on the Mountain Returning With Julian Marley, Sister Nancy, Marlon Asher and More
