51 years, countless legends: Ardie ‘Cuban’ Wallace tells his story in new book

Known in music circles for chomping on a signature Fidel Castro cigar, Ardie “Cuban” Wallace is one of the most popular Jamaicans in Connecticut. For over 50 years, he has promoted dancehall-reggae shows throughout that state, especially in his hometown of Hartford.

The flamboyant Wallace shares how he got into music 51 years ago in The Legendary Reggae Promoter: Ardie “Cuban” Wallace, a book scheduled for release on October 3. It is being published by Davies Chirwa.

With the assistance of author Yevette Ann Wallace, he reflects on 1975 when he made his debut as a promoter. The act he booked was a big one — Bob Marley And The Wailers at the Bushnell Theater in Hartford.