An online debate has erupted over an R&B artist headlining the 2011 Raggamuffin event.
Reggae fans have taken to Facebook to praise and attack Raggamuffin organisers over their choices for next year's concert at the Rotorua International Stadium on February 5.
International artists who are part of Raggamuffin 2011 line-up include MaryJ Blige, Sean Paul, Jimmy Cliff, Maxi Priest, The Original Wailers and Ky-Mani Marley.
While many fans are supporting the 2011 line-up, a few are upset that R&B superstar Mary J Blige is headlining.
The Kiwi line-up for the festival is yet to be announced but their identities will be known before tickets go on sale on October 26.
Facebook users have made comments like "wotsup wid mary j blige inda line up, keep it ragga", "MJB aint a reggae artist??", "MJB would be better at boom tunz with ludicris", "All the people saying who cares if Mary J is coming to RAGGAS and dont have a moan ... ARENT REAL REGGAE LOVERS!".
However, most of the Facebook comments support the line-up.
And despite the fact Blige is not a reggae musician, organisers have told The Daily Post the festival has always been a mixed music festival.
General manager of promoter Andrew McManus Presents Leesa Tilley said the first announcement made about Raggamuffin described the event as a "musical feast" showcasing reggae, funk, dub, hip hop and soul".
"Raggamuffin has always been a mix of music styles," Ms Tilley said.
Facebook users have also asked how many people asked for Blige to be part of the line-up because they hadn't seen her name on the discussion board.
Ms Tilley said organisers were always interested in learning which performers fans wanted to see.
Meanwhile, Rotorua is the last stop for the Raggamuffin festival next year but the Australian dates are yet to be announced.
