Sun 7/25
It was all about reggae music, love and celebrating the legacy of David Smeltz with a musical tribute and benefit at The Beachland Ballroom on JUly 25th. Affectionately referred to as “Papa Dave”, for his part in the foundation of Cleveland reggae, Smeltz was also the founder of Cleveland reggae band I-Tal.
In 2010, Smeltz went on to found the recovery non-profit C.L.E.A.N. House in Cleveland’s Buckeye neighborhood and went on to write a book entitled, “From Reggae to Recovery” in 2014. David “Papa Dave” Smeltz passed away on June 24, at the age of 66.
During the July 25th event, the music flowed through fhe Beachland Ballroom on both the main stage and tavern from over 60 reggae musicians as Packy Malley served as host and announcer for the event. David’s daughters opened the celebration with a Buddhist prayer and by thanking the reggae community for their support.
The outpouring of love got for the “Godfather of Cleveland Reggae” was amazing as many donated, sang, danced and remembered the music icon.
View the PHOTOSTREAM here.
[Written by Dru Thompson]
