42nd Annual UCSC MLK Convocation

Tuesday • January  27 • 5:30 PM • Doors open 5 PM • Free
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium • 307 Church St • Santa Cruz

This annual convocation celebrates the life and dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with presentations about equality, freedom, justice, and opportunity. This year we welcome legendary reggae percussionist, Larry McDonald.

Larry McDonald is a legendary Jamaican percussionist whose life and career have been defined by rhythm, culture, and the power of music to unite people. As one of the last living links to reggae’s golden era, McDonald has shared the stage and studio with icons including Bob Marley and the Wailers, Toots Hibbert and the Maytals, Taj Mahal, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Peter Tosh, Gil Scott-Heron, and countless others before ultimately joining the Skatalites. Over seven decades, he has become widely recognized as one of reggae’s most prolific percussionists and is credited with introducing the conga to the genre—an innovation that forever shaped its sound.

Honored with induction into the Jamaica Music Museum’s Hall of Fame and the prestigious Pioneer Award at Jamaica’s Tribute to the Greats ceremony, McDonald’s legacy extends far beyond music. A steadfast advocate for unity and cultural connection, he embodies the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement, inspiring audiences worldwide with his artistry, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to justice.