Although it's been just a few short years since its inception, the Different Strokes Retro Party series is listed among Negril's most prominent party events.

The ultra-popular retro party series made its debut as a once-a-year event in March of 2009, but its rapid growth has forced party promoter Sean Greenfield to stage the event twice per year.

Greenfield said it wasn't easy to make the Different Strokes brand into a success, as it took a lot of hard work and dedication to sell the concept to party fans in Negril when he first launched the event.

"The first few stagings were rough as the retro concept was not popular in Negril when we first started, but eventually it took off and now Different Strokes has grown to become one of the biggest parties in western Jamaica," said Greenfield.

a household name

According to Greenfield, now that Different Strokes has become a household name, he's tasked with the responsibility of maintaining and improving the quality of the event.

"Different Strokes is now a staple on the Negril Party scene and the fans expect a certain level of quality entertainment every time they attend Different Strokes. Therefore, we always have to ensure the patrons get good value for their money."

With Charley's JB Rum on board as the main sponsor once again, Different Strokes 9.0 will take place on Saturday, March 23, at Chances, Negril.

Patrons will be entertained by Mix Master Collin Hines and DJ Marvin of FAME, along with popular Negril sound-system African Vibz.

Admission is $800 presold and $1,000 at the gate, VIP tickets are $2,000 presold and $2,500 at the gate.

Part proceeds from Different Strokes 9.0 will go to charity.