Groovin' in the Park 2012

UPDATE: R. Kelly will NOT be performing at Groovin' in the Park 2012.

Visit “Groovin' In The Park…A day of Reggae Rhythm & Blues” concert, held annually in Roy Wilkins Park, Queens. This year, the concert will be headlined by Beenie Man, Boyz II Men, Jimmy Cliff, and Beres Hammond.

One of Jamaica's most crucial DJs, Beenie Man's recording career stretches back to 1981, although it was in the sound systems where he later made his mark. The witty toaster began his true ascent to stardom in the early '90s, and by 1994, his reputation couldn't be beat. Then again, when you're a recording veteran at age ten, one wonders just what took him so long. Every country has its child stars; just look at Shirley Temple, but few treat their prodigies with the respect of Jamaica. Talent competitions lead to radio and TV appearances, and even record contracts, but what's truly amazing is how many of these charming tots continue their career into adulthood. Elsewhere, early stardom inevitably leads to adolescent failure as they're a lot less cute at 18 than they were at eight. But not Jamaica, where they love them as toddlers, adore them as teens, and worship them as adults. Beenie Man is just one stellar example.

Grammy award winning R&B vocal group Boyz II Men is one of the most successful groups of all time. The group, best known for emotional ballads and a cappella harmonies, gained international notoriety with their 1992 hit single "End of The Road" which remained at the #1 position on the Billboard Hot 100 charts for 13 weeks. The group reaped further success with hits "I'II Make Love To You," "One Sweet Day” (with Mariah Carey) and “On Bended Knee." Their most recent studio album, "Twenty" was released in 2011.

International music legend Jimmy Cliff created history in 2010 when he became the first Jamaican performer since Bob Marley to be inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The talented actor, musician, singer and music producer is arguably the most celebrated reggae act alive on the international stage. He regularly plays stadiums and arenas in Africa, Brazil and parts of Europe and has an equally impressive following in the USA where he is best known for songs like “Harder They Come,” "You Can Get It If You Really Want" and "Many Rivers to Cross."

Also Sharing the stage is Reggae’s lovers rock king Beres Hammond, whose stellar career was launched in the 70's with the release of his monster hit "One Step Ahead." In the 80's he scored with "What One Dance Can Do," "Tempted to Touch" and subsequent albums "Love Affair," "Full Attention" and "A Day In The Life." His 2001 disc "Music is Life" was warmly embraced by fans globally. The success of the album led to a series of high profile sold out appearances at the world famous Madison Square Garden.