Reggae Sumfest 2009 will be dedicated to the recently deceased 'King of Pop' Michael Jackson.

This decision was announced at the Reggae Sumfest Montego Bay launch, which was held at Pier One last Wednesday. Chairman of Summerfest Productions, Robert Russell, said the decision was made last weekend.

"We see Michael Jackson as one of the greatest icons in the music industry in our lifetime. We saw it fitting to honour him at the show," Russell told The Sunday Gleaner.

"He impacted on all the people who grew up listening to his music over the years, mine for sure. He definitely gave us some wonderful music."

In dedicating the festival to Michael Jackson, Russell said several acts will be performing some of his songs. Ne-Yo is one of the acts confirmed to do so.

At the launch, Russell said it is important that the top reggae show be dedicated to the top musical star, as the world continues to mourn the famed singer. Jackson passed away on Thursday, June 25, in Los Angeles after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 50.

Jackson had actually visited and performed in Jamaica in 1975 as a member of the Jackson Five. The group was hosted then by former Prime Minister, Edward Seaga, at his home in Temple Meads, St Andrew. At the time, Seaga was Opposition leader and head of the Jamaica Labour Party. The Jackson Five was the opening act for Bob Marley and the Wailers at the National Stadium.

The work of self-proclaimed 'King of the Dancehall' Beenie Man will also be celebrated at the festival. However, Russell said the dedication to Michael Jackson will not overshadow the tribute that is being done for Beenie Man.

"Beenie Man will be honoured on dancehall night for his contribution. He will be honoured for his 30 years in the business. That is quite a milestone in the business," Russell said.

The 17th annual Reggae Sumfest will get under way on July 19 with the annual beach party at Cornwall Beach, featuring Errol Lee and the Bare Essentials, Cameal Davis, Khalil, Timeka Marshall, ZJ Ice, DJ Mix Master Marvin and Crazy Neil. They will be backed by Danger Zone Super Strong.

From July 23 to 25 at Catherine Hall, there will be performances from acts such as Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Vybz Kartel, Mavado, Lady Saw, Elephant Man, Busy Signal, Spice, Kiprich, Flippa Mafia, D'Angel, American R&B stars Ne-Yo and Jazmine Sullivan, Morgan Heritage, Jah Cure, Coco T, Queen Ifrica, multi-Grammy-winning star Toni Braxton, Nas, Damian 'Jr Gong' Marley, Tarrus Riley, Etana and Da'Ville.

Reggae Sumfest brings in an estimated 5,000 visitors to the island, along with US$5 million in revenue to Jamaica, according to a survey done by the Jamaica Tourist Board.

Reggae Sumfest is produced annually by Summerfest Productions.