12th Jamaica Poetry Festival a splendid affair
TheJamaicaGleaner • August 19, 2022
The 12th production of the Jamaica Poetry Festival (JPF) staged by poet Yasus Afari and SenYAcum Edutainment was held at the AC Marriott Hotel, Lady Musgrave Road, on Sunday evening.
It was a splendid affair, but that doesn’t mean it was without some shortcomings.
Presented in association with the hotel and PBC Jamaica, the concert comprised poetry, music, song, dance, comedy and lots of dramatic moments. A number of awards were also given out in the elegant ballroom.
There was variety, too, in the experience of the performers. Some were live and colourful in the space which held a large, enthusiastic audience, while others entertained from outside the island virtually, and were seen on a huge screen.
In addition to executive producer Yasus Afari, the personalities in the field of entertainment who would have been well known to Jamaican audiences included Mervyn Morris, a poet and emeritus professor of The University of the West Indies; pianist Monty Alexander (who offered a big surprise near the end of the show); composer and pianist Marjorie Whylie; and Dr Michael Abrahams.
Other big names were Skip Marley, a Grammy nominated grandson of Bob Marley and George Elliott Clarke, who we heard was a former poet laureate of both Toronto and Canada. Whylie, Marley and Alexander were JPF awardees for various achievements.
The first poet on stage in the three-hour-long show – which was amiably hosted by a vivacious, beautifully attired Simone Absolom-Gayle – was Sammoya Banton. Her three poems suggested that she is a protest poet. She complained that society is largely silent about domestic violence and about people limiting females by using the adjective “black” in a negative way when describing them.
Next up was Kai Falconer, who, very energetically, announced that she refused to be put in a box by other people’s beliefs, and later pleaded for safety and trustworthiness from those she had to deal with. Both poets got loud applause, as, clearly, many other women in the audience shared their feelings.
A couple of virtual guests then appeared in the persons of Clarke, the Canadian poet, and Patrick Lafayette, a founding employee of KLAS radio. Clarke’s long poem, Gospel of X (X being Jesus, he said), came through the speakers very muffled, but a few audible segments indicated that the poem commented on Jesus’ life and death. Lafayette, who was equally muffled, spoke about the importance of helping children with disabilities.
It was a relief to the audience to then have a live poet, Morris, who could be heard clearly. The past Jamaican poet laureate received enthusiastic applause even before he began delivering his dozen or so poems. Some, like Peelin Orange , The Pond , Valley Prince: for Don Drummond , The Day My Father Died and For Consciousness , came from his published books. Other were new. All were typical of Morris – brief, witty, insightful and with a twist in the tale.
Commenting on the presentation, the hostess declared that the poet’s work “encourage us to write”. The generally fine poetry of the other poets probably did the same. As Abrahams was later to declare in his poem We Need Some Heroes , great people inspire us.
Before the doctor performed, though, Whylie delighted the audience with three jazzy piano pieces, Evening Time , Fi Mi Love Have Lion Heart and an original tune that she didn‘t name. All bouncy numbers, they lifted the spirits and also lifted some people to their feet for a standing ovation.
During a break in the scheduled performances, the hostess introduced nine-year-old Canadian singer, writer and film and television actress Jazmin Headley, who was in the island to visit relatives and get to know the birthplace of her parents. She sang, beautifully, Jimmy Cliff’s I Can See Clearly Now .
Abrahams was on fire, as usual. With evident sincerity, he protested against corruption in the society (especially political corruption) and against violence, especially the domestic kind. His poem Dis Can Work was based on a true story about a woman he advised to leave her partner, but who ignored his advice. She was later murdered in a gruesome way. Abrahams’ ability to have the audience laughing at one moment and close to tears the next never ceases to amaze.
After a deaf woman performed Louise Bennett’s Nuh Likkle Twang , in sign language (with a translator in the audience), Monty Alexander appeared on the screen to speak about his musical journey from east Kingston to the wider world. He surprised many in the audience with a video of himself singing As Time Goes By .
His singing voice turned out to be quite pleasing. He has produced some 75 albums to date, he said, and another one, Love Notes , is slated to be out later in the year.
It was then time for Yasus Afari, himself, to take the stage. His poems, about the importance of caring for the planet and in praise of Mama Africa , women generally and Miss Lou , in particular, were delivered with style. He had music and dancers accompanying him and he strode commandingly around the stage.
Ebony Payne, a first time visitor to Jamaica, recited poetry about the power of art, about the disgrace of so many black men being incarcerated in American prisons, and about how proud she felt as a woman. She called herself “chocolate covered sunshine”. Lively tunes from reggae violinist Mark Stephenson closed the concert on a high note.
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Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Golf View Hotel stages second iteration of the gastronomic delight Genesis Featuring award winning Chef Oji Jajae
Those were the words of emcee, Terri-Karelle Reid, as she glowingly described the performances of singers Andre Shepherd, Rory Baugh, Carole Reid, Lieutenant Commander John McFarlane, Courtni Jackson, Kamla Hamilton, Carla Tulloch, Canon Grace Jervis and musicians Dean Fraser, Warren Harris, and Yanique Leiba. Reid was describing a well organised fundraising production put on by noted songstress Carole Reid at the Christ Church in Vineyard Town recently. The evening featured pieces such as ‘Scandalise your name” where Carole Reid, Cannon Grace Jervis, Courtni Jackson and Tiffany Robinson sang about different scenarios where somebody was scandalizing their names. This was followed by Tiffany Robinson with her spoken word pieces – Duppy Passport and Story Time. The pieces – written by Jamaican poet Easton Lee – were very well received by the packed Christ Church audience as Robinson demonstrated her flair for the theatric through the pieces. Her other two pieces, Happy Anniversary and Granny, had the Church in stitches. Another outstanding piece was the tribute to deceased drummer Desi Jones by Rory Baugh, Andre Shephard, Harold Davis and Lt. Commander John McFarlene. The piece, Praise Him, was written by Desi Jones for the group, Chalice and has been a consistently popular song. Jones, who passed in May 2024, was born on February 21,1959. Organiser Carole Reid said that the event had been organised in tribute to Jones – who had agreed to be a part of the event before his passing. Baugh, consistently showed his skill as a performer with several pieces throughout the show. Pieces such as Figaro as a solo and A Perfect Symphony with Andre Shephard
prompting emcee Terri-Karelle to hail him as “one of the greatest opera singers to come out of the Caribbean.” Carole Reid in turn was obviously enjoying the event and performed several pieces including Ave Maria and Tell Him with Carla Tulloch. Her joy, experience and expertise in delivery was quite inspiring. Tulloch too, demonstrated her tremendous talent with her rendition of Whitney Houston’s I will always love you. A rendition that garnered a standing ovation from her audience and queries about when she would be releasing her album as the audience wanted to hear more of her. Andre Shephard as always never disappoints and had the audience eating out of the palm of his hands. Overall, it was an evening of great musical feasting and Harold Davis brought the curtain down with a festive gospel medley that had Christchurch on its feet dancing. A fitting end to an outstanding show.
- Review by Indi Mclymont-Lafayette.
prompting emcee Terri-Karelle to hail him as “one of the greatest opera singers to come out of the Caribbean.” Carole Reid in turn was obviously enjoying the event and performed several pieces including Ave Maria and Tell Him with Carla Tulloch. Her joy, experience and expertise in delivery was quite inspiring. Tulloch too, demonstrated her tremendous talent with her rendition of Whitney Houston’s I will always love you. A rendition that garnered a standing ovation from her audience and queries about when she would be releasing her album as the audience wanted to hear more of her. Andre Shephard as always never disappoints and had the audience eating out of the palm of his hands. Overall, it was an evening of great musical feasting and Harold Davis brought the curtain down with a festive gospel medley that had Christchurch on its feet dancing. A fitting end to an outstanding show.
- Review by Indi Mclymont-Lafayette.
The three gave short performances at the event before receiving their awards. The audience could not get enough of Lester Lewis and his wife, Singing Rose as he performed song such as Winner man and Everytime I read my Bible . Shirley Willis, who has not been seen in Jamaica for some time, said that many persons thought that she was dead because she has been so quiet but she was on stage in Jamaica on Saturday, January 4 only because of God’s Grace. She then started singing, Jesus the Sweetest name I know to the audiences delight. Throughout her performance she was supported by headliner at the show, Chevelle Franklin, who ensured that she had a chair for Willis to sit if she so desired. But Willis was having none of it, as she sang and danced during her performance. The third honouree, Sandra Brooks, gave a resounding performance reminding the audience of why her music was so successful. Songs such as That’s Enough , I found the answer down on my Knees ensured that she was called back for an encore. All the honourees were called back on stage at the end of the concert for special prayers by another veteran in both the gospel and secular music world, Papa San. A part of his prayer that more and new music would come from these artistes to continue touching lives. In turn, Papa San gave a riveting performance that saw young and old on their feet dancing, prancing and giving praise. Papa San indicated that he had worked closely with the event organizer, Annoleah Wynter and her team to get the event done as it was very important to him to honour the gospel stalwarts who had laid the ground for him and other artistes. His sentiments were echoed by the other show headliner, Chevelle Franklyn, who said that she had been praying for someone with a similar vision to work with to honour the artistes as well as to take back the music industry with more positive wholesome content. She expressed gratitude to Wynter and called her on stage for a special prayer at the end of her performance. Franklyn gave a soul stirring, foot stomping 45 minute set that fully satisfied her fans. The Reset event was well organized and promoted and patrons got their money’s worth. While the turnout was not as robust as it could have been, the event set a good precedent for starting 2025 and many shared the thought that they hoped it would be the first of many such events.
Mandeville, Manchester – November 6, 2024: The Mandeville Regional Hospital (MRH) Renal Unit will be able to enhance the quality of care for kidney patients with a J$200,000 donation from the Golf View Hotel. “We are honored to support the Mandeville Regional Hospital in its mission to provide essential medical services. We believe in giving back to the community, and this is just one way we can make a meaningful impact,” said General Manager of the Golf View Hotel, Mr. Peter Campbell while presenting the funds to the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, Mr. Alwyn Miller recently.
“The support of organizations like Golf View Hotel enables us to provide enhanced care to our patients. We are grateful for their continued assistance in addressing the healthcare needs of our community,” said Mr. Miller. He highlighted the importance of private-sector partnerships in the health sector.
In turn, Mr. Campbell, responded that the donation, demonstrates the hotel’s ongoing commitment to community health and well-being. The funds were raised from the Leo/Virgo birthday party put on at the hotel for Mr. Campbell and his wife, Kemilee, held on August 24, 2024.
The Renal Unit at the Mandeville Regional Hospital (MRH) serves patients suffering from kidney-related illnesses, offering critical dialysis and nephrology services to a growing number of residents in the central Jamaica region (Clarendon, Manchester and St. Elizabeth).
In a formal presentation at the hospital on October 2, Mr. Campbell handed over the donation in the presence of key members of the MRH team, who expressed their appreciation for the timely support. Also representing the Mandeville Regional Hospital were Ms. Tonia-Ann Hollingsworth, Nephrology Nurse; Mrs. Marika Davis, Nurse Manager of the Renal Unit; and Ms. Mernel Genus, Departmental Nurse Manager.
“This donation will go a long way in helping us improve our services to better care for our patients,” said Mrs. Davis, Nurse Manager of the Renal Unit. The hospital staff were hopeful that this partnership would inspire other businesses in the central region to support healthcare initiatives and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.
The Golf View hotel has been under new management since 2019 and operates under the motto, “In the heart of Jamaica from the hearts of Jamaicans.”
For further information, please contact: David Murray, Marketing Officer. Email: Davidalexander.gvh@gmail.com Tel: 1(876) 503-5612
“The support of organizations like Golf View Hotel enables us to provide enhanced care to our patients. We are grateful for their continued assistance in addressing the healthcare needs of our community,” said Mr. Miller. He highlighted the importance of private-sector partnerships in the health sector.
In turn, Mr. Campbell, responded that the donation, demonstrates the hotel’s ongoing commitment to community health and well-being. The funds were raised from the Leo/Virgo birthday party put on at the hotel for Mr. Campbell and his wife, Kemilee, held on August 24, 2024.
The Renal Unit at the Mandeville Regional Hospital (MRH) serves patients suffering from kidney-related illnesses, offering critical dialysis and nephrology services to a growing number of residents in the central Jamaica region (Clarendon, Manchester and St. Elizabeth).
In a formal presentation at the hospital on October 2, Mr. Campbell handed over the donation in the presence of key members of the MRH team, who expressed their appreciation for the timely support. Also representing the Mandeville Regional Hospital were Ms. Tonia-Ann Hollingsworth, Nephrology Nurse; Mrs. Marika Davis, Nurse Manager of the Renal Unit; and Ms. Mernel Genus, Departmental Nurse Manager.
“This donation will go a long way in helping us improve our services to better care for our patients,” said Mrs. Davis, Nurse Manager of the Renal Unit. The hospital staff were hopeful that this partnership would inspire other businesses in the central region to support healthcare initiatives and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.
The Golf View hotel has been under new management since 2019 and operates under the motto, “In the heart of Jamaica from the hearts of Jamaicans.”
For further information, please contact: David Murray, Marketing Officer. Email: Davidalexander.gvh@gmail.com Tel: 1(876) 503-5612
Noted Jamaican Dub Poet Yasus Afari is a name that has become synonymous with spoken word poetry in the Caribbean and globally. Born in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, Yasus grew up in a household steeped in the island's rich cultural heritage . “My innate, organic Spirituality sparked my interest, in due season, in harmony with my cultural environment and social realities,” said the Poet who regularly hosts events promoting poetry both in Jamaica as well as internationally. His love for poetry and music was nurtured from a young age, and he quickly became known as a wordsmith who could weave intricate rhymes with ease. But Yasus' talent went beyond mere entertainment. He used his gift for words to shine a light on the social and political issues affecting Jamaica and the Caribbean. With his sharp wit and piercing insights, Yasus became a voice for the voiceless, a champion for the oppressed and marginalised. “My upbringing and socio-cultural environment and attendant realities influenced my world view, my interests and my poetry and music. However, having said that, my poetry and music manifested naturally, in the fullness of time, based on my organic genetic imprint / spiritual DNA which is responsible for my God-given talents, purpose and abilities,” he explained. With his strong connection to music, he indicates that he could not have imagined pursuing a career outside of the arts. “It's difficult to say what I would have done, if I had abandoned my purpose, as you can’t run away from yourself, at least not for too long... However, it may have been engineering and/or marketing, which, I hope, would have naturally found a way to poetry and music for the empowerment, inspiration and upliftment of our people and of all humanity.” Some of his greatest influences come from his religious background, namely that of Rastafari as he credits Emperor Haile Selassie the First as his primal, primary and major inspiration and influence. Pablo Moses, Bunny Wailer, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Sugar Minott are amongst others have also played an influence in his music. “Largely speaking, other than and in harmony with the influences alluded to before, Rastafari Livity, Marcus Mosiah Garvey, Miss Lou and all the Liberators (in and outside of music) with/to whom I've been exposed, have collectively influenced and impacted my music,” he said. However, despite being known widely for reggae, other genres are not outside of his comfort zone nor are ones he hasn’t and won’t hesitant to peruse. “I love music, all kind of music, once the vibe is positive and inspirational. I have experimented with jazz, hip hop, dancehall, dub step and others. Therefore, I'm open to be inspired by any genre of music, which I can pursue along with reggae,” he told www.chrismixradio.com . Every artist wishes to impact their audience and convey some sort of emotion or thought and Yasus is no exception. “I ceaselessly aspire to inspire hope, positive inspiration, love, confidence and worth/self-esteem via my poetry, music, works.” Involved in various community and educational initiatives throughout his career, the importance of giving back to one’s community and empowering others is in the forefront of his mind. “I’m aware that in giving, you receive and in receiving you give. Yet, I am also aware that it's better to give than to receive. You also reap what you sow and somehow, sow what you reap, so reciprocity is the operative element. Therefore, it's vitally important to give forward to your community to fulfil and justify the natural cycles. The arts, generally, poetry and music, specifically, are agents and tools of education and true liberation and in this connection, education is the key. Therefore, this is why we specialize in edutainment.” In 2023, he released an album called Golden Spoon Maroon which he says will inspire and mobilise various audiences. “It is designed to inspire, motivate and mobilise the indigenous, sovereign, first nation peoples of humanity and our planet, mother earth, so that we can claim our rightful place in earth, humanity and the family of nations. This is the message we aspire to convey, relate and communicate,” he told www.chrismixradio.com in an exclusive interview. In 2023, he also released an EDM remix of What a Sinting , featuring Ini Kamoze, from his Golden Spoon Maroon album shortly after staging the inaugural Jamaica Poetry, Music Symposium 2023. After hosting the 13th Annual Jamaica Poetry Festival 2023 which included the Visions of Hope Dinner, he donated 100% of the proceeds to help persons with disabilities. Yasus Afari's impact on Jamaican music and culture cannot be overstated. As a poet, musician, and cultural ambassador, he has dedicated his life to spreading the message of love, unity, and social justice through his music and writings. His unique style of blending reggae with spoken word poetry has earned him worldwide recognition and respect, and his influence on the next generation of Jamaican artists is immeasurable. For those who would emulate him, he has this to say: “know yourself, be yourself, fulfil your purpose in life. Be true to your people & serve with dignity and integrity and reap immortality!”
Tuesday, January 30, 2024. Kingston, Jamaica. Reverend Al Miller, Senior Pastor at Fellowship Tabernacle Church, yesterday called on Industry leaders in Reggae music to boldly take back the reins and direction of Reggae and make it back into the music of strong messages, power and transformation that it is known for. “I challenge the music fraternity – if you believe that reggae is message music, then invest in it and use it to turn our nation around….let us use it to create change and transformation in Jamaica,” said Miller at the Reggae Month church service held at his church on Sunday. “Reggae music can either be used positively or negatively. In the latter years, the negative has been our experience ... but yuh see when it a go down, we a go tun it up again, and accomplish what the early thinkers and framers intended,” said Miller, while emphasizing the need for strong leadership. ‘Industry leaders shouldn’t be following backa the artistes them and going with whatever is being done. You have to set the parameters and then when you set that, you determine what is priority,” Miller told the packed church which included Music Industry representatives such as the Minister of Culture Gender, Entertainment and Sport Minister Olivia Grange, Minister of Finance and Planning Minister Dr Nigel Clarke, Head of Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JARIA) Ewan Simpson, Head of the Jamaica Association of Vintage Artistes and Affiliates (JAVAA) Frankie Campbell, representative of the Jamaica Federation of Musicians and Affiliated Unions (JFMAU) Althea Hewitt, members of the Diplomatic Corps from the Republic of Columbia, Argentina, Mexico and Trinidad and Tobago as well as other musicians and dignitaries. “Reggae is message music. The word music comes from muse – which means giving people something to think about,” said Miller, while urging the leaders to ensure that Reggae be used as a tool for national transformation and global unity. He stressed that if properly directed Reggae could take Jamaica to greater heights both economically and culturally while also ensuring that Jamaica continued to spread the message of One Love that Bob Marley’s music had given the wider global community. The One love message of Reggae was also similarly lauded by Ministers Grange and Clarke. “We (Jamaica) small but we have a message for the world – the message of One Love. We must internalise it for ourselves and keep spreading it,” said Minister Clarke while addressing the Kingston head office of Fellowship Tabernacle. In turn, Minister Grange encouraged the continued celebration of Reggae and its power beyond February. “Let us not confine reggae to this month alone but continue to embrace its timeless message,” she said in her address to the congregants. During the vibrant three-hour church services, there were a variety of performances from the church’s creative arm – choir and dance ministries – using reggae. Singer Keron Clarke did an item that was well received and the Lightning Drummers from Ardenne received a standing ovation for their performance. Reggae Month was first celebrated on January 9, 2008 by the Jamaican Government. This was done to highlight Reggae’s impact on Jamaica’s social, cultural, and economic development.
Mandeville, Jamaica, November 20, 2023 : The Golf View Hotel is partnering with illustrious Chef Andre Sewell and Harbour Wines and Spirits to present its premier dining event featuring a delectable culinary experience in modern Jamaican cuisine on Thursday, November 30, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. “This evening is a tribute to the evolving flavors of Jamaica, crafted into a modern narrative, offering our guests an unparalleled dining experience,” said Director of Golf View Hotel, Mrs. Kemilee McLymont-Campbell while adding that the hotel was particularly happy to “be hosting a culinary maestro like Chef Andre Sewell.” The hotel is promising an evening that unfolds a gastronomic voyage across four handcrafted courses. Each dish is harmoniously paired with fine wines, by Harbour Wines & Spirits. The evening will start with an opulent cocktail hour by the hotel’s poolside courtyard, followed by a gourmet dining experience in the ambient L'Attitude Lounge located at the Golf View hotel in Mandeville, Manchester. “Jamaican cuisine is close to my heart, and with 'GENESIS', I aim to revisit our roots, celebrate our journey, and present a modern twist to our beloved flavors. It's more than just a meal; it's a story on a plate,” said Chef Andre Sewell, who is known for creations such as ripe breadfruit Parisian flan, fry ova dumplin chicken taco, ackee wine, BBQ jerked ram goat and soursop honey mustard salmon. Event Highlights: · A unique 4-course meal crafted by Chef Andre Sewell, · Wine pairing for each course by Harbour Wines & Spirits, · Live saxophone performance by the talented Mr. Seymour Heron, · An elegant setting at the Golf View Hotel, making for a perfect evening. Ticket Purchase Details: · Single Ticket: US$170 · Couple's Ticket: US$320 · Tickets are available for pre-purchase only to secure seating. For further details, tickets, or interviews, please contact Yaneke Sailsman, Sales Manager at Golf View Hotel at salesmanager.gvhja@gmail.com or +876-868-5656 .
Kingston, Jamaica. November 14, 2023. Patrons at the Joy Fairclough and Friends show on Sunday (November 11, 2023) were treated to a cosy, up close and personal show with performers such as Boris Gardiner, Pam Hall, Tilly Roots, Fab 5 Inc, Rev Dr Jermaine Gordon, Bagga Case, Bongo Herman, Delroy Melody and of course Joy Fairclough. In a relatively tightly run show, the event saw highly interactive performances from some of the artistes. Bongo Herman for example, spent a fair amount of time walking through the audience and regaling them with some of the history behind the songs he performed as well as the instruments that he used. The display of the chamber pot was a big audience favorite. Another stand-out act was the veteran performer, Boris Gardiner, whose riveting performance included his first number one hit in Jamaica “Its so nice to be with you.” He left the audience wanting more. Songstress Pam Hall did not disappoint singing her rendition of Bob Marley’s “Three little birds’ as well as an introduction to her new single “Cool Breeze.” Leaving his mark as well was gospel singer, Jermaine Gordon, who did a medley of gospel songs including God is not dead, I just keep falling in love with him and We bring sacrifice of praise. Not to be left out was Joy herself who accompanied by her friends did originals such as Closer to you and I love you. She ended the show with a finale of Miss Lou’s “Long time gal me never see you, come mek me hold yuh hand.” While there were a few hitches re malfunctioning microphones, the show overall reflected Joy’s mandate to ensure that “we keep producing and showcasing quality music.” Review by Indi Mclymont-Lafayette. Captions: Bongo Herman interacting with the audience Joy Fairclough and Friends performing at her show Pam Hall delivering Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds.
On Sunday, November 12, 2023, the headquarters of Fa 5 Inc will come alive with riveting performances from Pam Gall, June Lawson, Tilly Roots, Fab 5 Inc, Rev Dr Jermaine Gordon, Bagga Case, Bongo Herman, Delroy Melody, and other surprise artistes at the annual staging of Joy Fairclough and Friends. Tickets are available at Fab 5 Inc headquarters at 11 Springvale Avenue, Kingston 10, Jamaica, and Island Coffee Cafe Ltd (Victoria Pier Waterfront Kingston Jamaica). Tickets for Adults costs $3500 pre-sold and $4000 at the gate while Children are $1500 at the gate or by online payment. All tickets sold are non -refundable as delayed private online link viewing will be made available upon emailed request per ticket purchased. Contact joy@joymusicjamaica.com.jm for online tickets and pay online at PayPal and send the receipt with name of event Joy Fairclough with Friends typed on it to joy@joymusicjamaica.com.jm, and the private link will be emailed to your email address or sent in your what's app number which you send to us.
Kingston, Jamaica. May 20, 2023. Versatile singer, Anthony Cruz, recently launched his new album – Under the covers – in three different cities– Kingston, Fort Lauderdale, and New York – this month (May 2023). The 18-track album is being described by Cruz as a ‘Classic’ featuring covers of popular soul and rhythm and blues songs such as The Miracles – I second that emotion, Alexander O’Neals – If you were here tonight and Donny Hathaway and Roberta Flack’s The closer I get to you. “It is a unique album because it is all covers. It is a clean album that you can listen to with your family and there is a song for everybody,” said Cruz at the first album launch which took place at Stone Love’s Headquarters in Kingston. With a smooth, soulful voice and powerful lyrics, Anthony Cruz has captivated audiences around the world. With a career spanning over two decades, he has earned a reputation as one of the most talented and versatile singers of his generation. Cruz describes himself as a humble, hardworking, Godly man who has taken hold of his singing ability to spread nothing but good music. “I’m a naturally talented person and everyone in this world is given a gift - mine is my voice and my song writing ability,” said Cruz, who has his origins in Manchester. One of his musical heroes is his uncle - the late Garnett Silk. “He - through watching his career- taught me through singing that there is an ability to reach, touch and educate the world through music,’’ said Cruz, who is also known for hits such as Half Way Tree and Too Bloody. In the early 2000s, Cruz's released his debut album, "Truly," which quickly became a hit. Since then, he has released several other albums, showcasing his unique blend of reggae, soul, and R&B music. Cruz's powerful lyrics often touch on themes of love, loss, and social justice, resonating with fans around the world. In his song “Justice” he addresses the need for equality and respect for all, while in "Mother and Father," he pays tribute to the sacrifices his parents made to provide for their family. It's this authenticity and honesty that has endeared Cruz to fans all over the world. But Cruz's success hasn't come without its share of challenges. In 2010, he was involved in a near-fatal car accident that left him with serious injuries. Despite the setback, Cruz remained determined to continue making music. He underwent extensive rehabilitation and eventually returned to the stage, better than ever. “Living a good healthy, clean, righteous life” is what he sees as the key in life. He is excited about the scope of this album, which he says is being well received in Jamaica as well as the United States. The album launches at the Blue Martini in Fort Lauderdale and the Ocho Rios Seafood Lounge in Brooklyn, New York were well supported. The album is being promoted by TAJ records and is available via online platforms. Photo captions: 1) Anthony Cruz at his album launch in Fort Lauderdale, Florida 2) Anthony Cruz (second right) with fellow artistes, Aaron Silk (left) and KristifaKoke (right) and patron at the event, David Green (second left)