The rhythm of JAMAICA is unmatched, Its charm pulls you in. You can’t help laughing and relaxing, with sand between your toes, and sea breeze on your face, as you sway in time to the beat.
From the
T
EDITOR
We will introduce the performers. We will reminisce about the he response to the return of Jamaica Jazz and Blues glorious days of the Jamaica Jazz has been overwhelming! Music lovers from all walks of and Blues, tracing the story from its life, at home and abroad have expressed excitement and emergence as Air Jamaica Jazz and anticipation of the return of the festival. Co-producers Adrian Blues, highlighting outstanding acts and Allen and Marcia McDonnough were somewhat hesitant when they the ambience of the memorable venues. floated the idea in August, but the enthusiasm with which it was We will celebrate the team that made received encouraged them to take the leap. Seven months later, the it happen – our sponsors, marketing festival is about to be staged and we are all waiting with bated breath. and production teams. We will walk you through the virtual Artisan Village The journey has been fraught with challenges and doubt, but those which offers outstanding and exquisitely negatives were outweighed by a can-do attitude, positive vibes and crafted Jamaican pieces ranging from hope. The early months saw the “challenges of getting the necessary leather masks, backpacks and handbags funding. Many companies do not understand the benefits of the to intricately designed jewelry, beautiful virtual space as they do the physical....they are not accustomed to footwear and aromatic oils. doing activations that are digital and even though the virtual space can easily give them tens of thousands more viewers they are With the thousands of international individuals uncomfortable with the unknown. Covid-19 presented many that will make up our audience, we optimized difficulties including an uncertain financial environment”, shared the opportunities provided by the virtual Marcia. There have been many high points too, like “meeting platform to showcase the many delights Jamaica the artists and discovering their talent and just watching as has to offer through two special features – the presentation comes together. Becoming excited about “Circle Jamaica with Richie Stephens” and “Stay viewing it even though we have been working on it for With Us” hosted by Tami and Wayne Mitchell. so long. And, of course, slowly but surely garnering the Richie visited several world-renown features support of those loyal sponsors, many of whom supported of the island – Dunn’s River Falls, Rick’s Café, the festival before and are now back on board”. Fern Gully, Blue Hole. Tami and Wayne popped into a number of hotels including Royalton, March 4-6 will see the virtual extravaganza in GeeJam, and Moon Palace. which the team will “Bring the Magic Back”; three nights of a wealth of diverse talent, most of Most important, we pay tribute to two iconic which comprise new and emerging performers individuals who impacted the Jamaica Jazz coming to the main Jamaica Jazz and Blues and Blues Festival – founder, the late Butch stage for the first time, the exceptions being Stewart and Toots Hibbert, stellar performer. Richie Stephens and Jon Secada. Be sure to join us for the three awesome Jazz & Blues Riddims will be sharing the nights, March 4-6 2021 when we “Bring the experience of combining all the elements Magic Back”. to bring you the vibrant, seamless package of world class entertainment while also celebrating the essence of our island home.
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Maxine McDonnough
s t i d e r C PUBLISHER
Pelican Publishers Limited
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Maxine McDonnough
EDITORIAL TEAM
Maxine McDonnough Marcia McDonnough Nicole deGale
MARKETING / SALES
Marcia McDonnough Dallion Francis Yolande Rattray-Wright
COVER, GRAPHICS ART, LAYOUT
Your
Nicole Williams c/o Pelican Graphics
PHOTOGRAPHY
Adrian Creary Many photographs were retrieved from our archives
Jazz & Blues Riddims Magazine is published at the behest of the event organizers. No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronically o r m e c h a n i c a l l y, i n c l u d i n g photocopying, recording or by any information storage retrieval system without written permission from the organizers. © 2021 Pelican Publishers Limited
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www.dobusinessjamaica.com
Contents
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Contents Inside
8 Messages
12 Tributes To Butch Stewart And Toots Hibbert 16 Enjoying Jazz Virtually! 18 Bringing Back The Magic! 22 Eclectic Sounds 28 Artisan Village 30 You Can Help Us
Artists
32 Stars On The Rise 34 All Stars Night 1 36 All Stars Night 2 38 Sponsors 40 Jazz Memories 46 Circle Jamaica 48 Stay With Us
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Message from the
I
MINISTER of TOURISM
am pleased to extend sincere congratulations to the team at Steady Image, Touchstone Productions, and their many partners, as they stage the highly-anticipated return of the Jamaica Jazz and Blues music festival.
The Ministry of Tourism, through our marketing arm the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), is happy to once again collaborate with you for this prestigious musical event, which will be hosted in a virtual format. Over the years, the festival has presented numerous exceptional artistes, including Celine Dion, Beres Hammond, Chaka Khan, Shaggy, Aaron Neville and Tessanne Chin. Therefore, like most viewers, I am really looking forward to seeing this year’s spectacular line up of both local and international performers.
The Network is comprised of key sport and entertainment practitioners who have been charged to lead this effort. Some of the key initiatives of the network include the promotion of festivals; the coordination of established activities/ events for the Tourism Calendar; as well as greater collaboration with event promoters and venue managers to package and promote local music events and festivals to help eliminate seasonality. This is an initiative we are driving with my colleague, Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange and her team at the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport.
I must extend special commendation to the team for not only making this event free of charge to viewers, but for your pledge We are seeing positive outcomes as we continue to assist some of our entertainment practitioners who have to support the building out of captivating been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, through a charity entertainment experiences. I once again component of the event. congratulate the entire team for bringing the Jamaica Jazz and Blues music festival back, We are overjoyed to see the creative industries slowly and wish you a successful staging of this coming back to life and applaud you for using innovative outstanding event. means to showcase the best of Jamaica’s music and culture to the world.
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Entertainment tourism is one of the main niche areas, which we have been placing special focus on, in order to further diversify our tourism product and tap into new markets. The Sports and Entertainment Network of the Ministry’s Tourism Linkages Network was created as one of those strategic steps towards capitalizing on Jamaica’s potential in this area.
HON. EDMUND BARTLETT, CD, MP
Message from the
MINISTER OF CULTURE, GENDER,
ENTERTAINMENT andSPORT
T
The Government, through the Ministry he covid-19 pandemic has dealt a blow to industries of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and worldwide and among the hardest hit are our cultural Sport; the Ministry of Local Government and creative practitioners. As many of them take to the and Rural Development and the Ministry virtual airwaves to maintain relevance and visibility to fans of Health and Wellness, with the input of worldwide, the return of a Virtual Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival industry stakeholders continues to work is welcome. on protocols for the safe reopening of As Minister of Culture, I am pleased at the opportunities being provided the wider entertainment sector. our industry practitioners by the festival which has always been an Congratulations to the organisers and important driver of Jamaica’s music, culture, entertainment and partners on bringing back the festival. We tourism. look forward to the usual dynamism of local Despite the virtual format, the festival maintains its signature and international performances backed by “small stage” tradition to unearth and showcase new Jamaican the top class production for which the festival talent with a Band Quest Competition. The festival will also has become known. incorporate the popular art and craft marketplace with an Artisan Village featuring authentic Jamaican wooden items, jewellery and ceramics. Although Jamaica Jazz and Blues looks and feels a little different, being staged virtually for the first time, we anticipate a full face to face return in coming years. I commend foundation members of the team, Steady Image and Touchstone Productions, as they bring back the magic from March 4 - 6, 2021, close on the heels of Reggae Month 2021 which wraps this February, spearheaded by my Ministry.
HON. OLIVIA GRANGE, CD, MP
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Message from the
I
DIRECTOR of TOURISM
am thrilled that Jamaica Jazz and Blues will Bring back the Magic of one of Jamaica’s best loved music festival. The Jamaica Tourist Board is proud to be a partner in this venture.
We have missed the festival for a few years! With masterful production, class acts, and an unmistakable Jamaican flare, the festival adds to the high demand music events that make Jamaica the beat that moves the world.
The festival gives lovers of our music yet another reason to remain connected with the destination and engage with our brand. It also serves as a teaser to whet their appetite as they eagerly await the time when they can again travel to the island.
While audiences are still craving live Once a staple on the list of music lovers, and a bucket list item for performances, I know the popularity of our many, Jamaica Jazz and Blues has given us magical moments. We destination brand in the virtual space will recall how John Legend could do no wrong; how Celine Dion draw thousands of patrons to experience the locked down Montego Bay with her scintillating performance magic of Jamaica Jazz and Blues. and how patrons waited in drenching showers just to see Beres Hammond’s performance! We can’t wait to see what Welcome back, Jamaica Jazz and Blues… mesmerizing and riveting melodic experiences you will deliver Cheers to a very successful event. We are waiting this year. with baited breath for a magical experience. Jamaican culture has always loomed large with pulses that move the world. Now more than ever, the world needs our music offerings. The festival’s relevance is more than just entertainment… it is an escape from the blues and gloom of the current global pandemic. We need the power of music to heal, to lift our mood, to lower our stress levels and to give us hope. Patrons from around the world will turn to the Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival to experience the magic of the music.
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Donovan White
Tribute to
BUTCH
STEWART
Legacy
JAMAICA JAZZ & BLUES AN ENDURING
1996 saw the birth of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival. Twenty-six years later, now known as the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival it is recognised as one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the Caribbean’s entertainment calendar. This is the legacy of the Honourable Gordon “Butch” Stewart under whose leadership as the chairman of the national airline – Air Jamaica, this iconic event was established. His interest in ensuring the growth of the tourism industry and developing Jamaica as a major hub in the Caribbean guided the major goals that the festival set out to achieve – establish a music festival with a broad-based appeal for locals while also attracting visitors to the island; boosting the economy of Montego Bay which hosted the event; fill the seats of the national airline and further enhance Jamaica’s reputation as the premier entertainment destination in the Caribbean.
in his team’s ability to activate, nor did he acknowledge the word “can’t” as part of his vocabulary, and thus once the decision for the festival was made, he made it clear to his team that this should be accomplished with urgency but without compromising any standards of a quality, world-class production. It is therefore no surprise that the first festival was staged within only 10-weeks of its conception. Over the years the festival gained a reputation of excellence not only for the quality of artistes brought to the Jamaican stage, but the beauty, sophistication and comfort of the ambience created. It was a space in which friends and family celebrated special moments and reconnected and strangers formed new bonds of friendship. It became a space in which artistes bonded with the Jamaican people with many returning, eagerly, to the Jazz and Blues stage time and time again. It has created a heritage fitting of the visionary who made it possible and we honour Mr Stewart for this legacy which we endeavour to enrich and grow.
...the first festival was staged within only 10-weeks of its conception.
Mr Butch Stewart was incomparable in his audacious, creative, and inspirational leadership. Once he decided that something was to be done, he did not tolerate doubt
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Deepest condolences to his family and God’s strength and comfort in this time of loss and grief.
The 2021 Jamaica Jazz & Blues Team
Tribute to
TOOTS HIBBERT Prolific
AN EXCITING PERFORMER AND ARTISTE
T
oots Hibbert last performed on the Jazz and Blues stage in 2005 at Cinnamon Hill. That concert was memorable for many reasons but most of all for the scintillating and high energy performance the legendary star delivered. As Carolyn Johnson, freelance writer reported in Gleaner article published May 21, 2006, “Toots Hibbert was all the rage at the final night of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, as he delivered a commanding performance on January 30, 2005, in Montego Bay, St. James”. His haunting, raspy voice held the audience in thrall as he belted out hit after hit.
such as Lou Rawls, Dionne Warwick, Julio Iglesias and many more. Toots showed the strength of his music and popularity as he took the huge crowd singing along with him song after song. The Jamaica Jazz and Blues has always strived to recognise exceptional talent and of course Toots is a perfect example of the type of performer that gave the festival its unique place and popularity among its fans. He will be sadly missed by the music world and we are sorry we will not be able to showcase him again. We will, therefore, pay tribute to his legacy with a special feature at the festival and encourage our stars on the rise to emulate him ”.
icon Toots is an
of Jamaica’s music industry
Jamaica Jazz and Blues joins music lovers across the world in mourning the passing of Toots Hibbert in September 2020 when he seemed set to offer so much more to his myriad fans and the music industry. Toots is an icon of Jamaica’s music industry, commented Marcia McDonnough, co-producer of the 2021 festival, “He performed at what was then the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues in 2003 and was brought back in 2005 where he admirably shared the stage with many greats
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H
aving established Toots and the Maytals in 1961 he worked in the music industry for close to seven decades. His entry on the scene in the 1960s was meteoric as he immediately caught the attention of the industry and listeners alike and scored some of Jamaica’s early international hits including “Sweet and Dandy”, “Take Me Home Country Roads”, “Monkey Man”, “5446”, “Peeping Tom”.
a pioneer of reggae and its evolutionary genres...
Toots was globally recognised as a pioneer of reggae and its evolutionary genres, ska and rocksteady which have not only been covered by famous foreign singers and bands but have contributed to the development of other modern genres. Toots was also credited with, if not naming reggae, being the first to use the word in the title of a song – the 1968 composition, “Do the Reggay”. He performed and collaborated with many international artistes including Willie Nelson and the Rolling Stones. He performed in some 60 countries in the continents of Africa, Europe, Australia, North and South America. To o t s w a s r e c o g n i s e d f o r h i s outstanding career winning the 2004 Reggae Grammy, for the album True Love and his latest album, Got to be Tough, released on August 28 has been nominated for the 2021 Grammy Awards. In 2010 Rolling Stone Magazine included him in their “100 Greatest Singers of All Time” list with his ranking at 71. In 2012 he was awarded the Order of Jamaica. Jamaica Jazz and Blues salutes the incomparable Toots Hibbert!
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The 2021 Jamaica Jazz & Blues Team
Enjoying Jazz VIRTUALLY!
Longstanding Jazz and Blues fans will recall that the planning for the festival was close to preparing for a military manoeuvre.
There was the securing of tickets, booking of hotel rooms as close to venue as possible, which meant months in advance. The right wardrobe which was generally casual chic, fashionable yet comfortable enough to take you through eight hours of sitting on your blanket on the ground or standing shoulder to shoulder with thousands of other fans, unless you had bought a VIP ticket which might include chairs. There was the timing of arrival to avoid the inevitable traffic jam, ensure parking at a reasonable distance and securing space that allowed a good view of the stage while also with a reasonably clear access to the food court, bars and rest rooms. For some it might also mean toting your liquor of choice and the attendant paraphernalia. Binoculars might be handy in the event you failed to get a good spot. In the days of Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, it was prudent to prepare for cool even cold weather – blankets, comforters, thick, warm clothing, and even raincoats and umbrellas. Most of the time the evening was cool, and balmy with caressing tropical breezes but this was never guaranteed.
FOR TRADITIONAL JAZZ AND BLUES FANS A NEW MINDSET IS NECESSARY.
ü No tickets ü No commuting ü Clothes of your choice, Laptop, mobile, tablet, Smart ü Your TV or big screen Internet service or mobile ü Good data plan…check out FLOW for great packages
ü A comfortable chair, your Mastercard ready to shop ü Have in the Artisan Village at hand as you ü Refreshments won’t want to miss a minute of the offerings.
ü Sit back, relax and enjoy! IF YOU ARE ATTENDING A WATCH PARTY THEN ENSURE THE FOLLOWING: don’t exceed the limit ü Numbers mandated for COVID 19 safety your mask unless eating or ü Wear drinking
ü Take your sanitizer with you ü Observe social distancing rules a bottle of Appleton along ü Take to share with your party and drink responsibly
ü Sit back, relax and soak in the music. NOW YOU KNOW, THERE IS NO REASON TO MISS IT!
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WATCH VIDEO FOR JOY'S COCKTAL RECIPE
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BRINGING BACK the
Magic! JAMAICA JAZZ &
BLUES 2021
THE CONCEPT
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Jamaica Jazz and Blues enthralled audiences of all ages, from at home and abroad, for over 20 years. During this time, the festival brought over 110,000 visitors to the island and contributed some US$70 million to the economy. The festival showcased over 400 international stars. Celine Dionne, Lionel Richie, Air Supply are among the favourites. It also provided a stage of excellence for our local musicians – Beres Hammond, Tessanne Chin, and Beenie Man, among others. Production of the festival ceased in 2015.
After a hiatus of 5 years, we are bringing
the magic back!
W
ith the blessing of brand owner, Walter Elmore, individuals from the original production team have come together to present the virtual Jamaica Jazz and Blues experience. This virtual experience will mix the old and the new to create a scintillating festival that will, indeed, bring the magic back for the steadfast fans and introduce “one of the largest and most successful music festivals in the western hemisphere” (Billboard Magazine) to eager new audiences. Livestreaming since 2010, Jamaica Jazz and Blues was one of the first events to go virtual and so this virtual experience should be no surprise. Combining our reach with that of our partners, the event is expected to reach large global audiences.
THE TEAM
THE TEAM BRINGING THIS EXTRAORDINARY PRODUCTION TOGETHER IS ADRIAN ALLEN, VIVIENE CHANCE AND MARCIA MCDONNOUGH.
Adrian Allen,
an Innovative Brand Strategist and Digital Media Producer, has directed and produced TV shows for Networks such as BET, HBO, NBC, BRAVO Networks, and platforms Facebook Watch and Netflix. and developed special media content for Awards Shows, Cruise Lines, and giants such as Google and JetBlue. Over the past 12 years, he has worked closely with music festivals, such as the Jamaica Jazz and Blues, in overseeing the creative concepts and marketing strategies to promote and brand the festivals. He is also responsible for producing and directing the multi-camera live production for over 350 Class A Acts such as Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Diana Ross, Anita Baker to name a few. and executed live broadcasts packaged for future distribution worldwide.
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Vivienne Chance
is an independent Jamaican-American Film/Video Producer, Writer and International Voice Actress. On the board of Steady Image, Inc., a multimedia, film and video production company located in South Florida producing full HD specials for networks like The Travel Channel, HBO, BET and IslandStylee. c o m . Producer of local and international digital content and local voiceover celebrity. Vivienne works closely with mega companies such as Art Of Music Productions (owners and promoters of Jamaica Jazz & Blues Fest) and Frame By Frame (owners/producers of Island Stylee) throughout the Caribbean to produce “magazine-style” TV, web-broadcast specials.
THE JOURNEY SHARED BY MARCIA AND ADRIAN
MARCIA: It’s been a long haul for the
Jamaica Jazz and Blues team. Starting in August we began the trek by reaching out to sponsors and artists and since then it has been non-stop work to get the plans to where they are today. I’ve been seeking sponsorship for the festival for very many years but I must confess that this time was the most challenging and took all the patience, experience and relationship building that I Vivienne is one of the Executive Producers of Steady Image’s first have developed over the years. Overall, the feature film, “The Heart of Summer” co-starring Jamaica’s, Paul times are hard financially and added to that, we Campbell, along with Tesh Humphries, Lex Kelly-Meade, Sophia all are just learning how to adapt to the virtual Nicholson and Paul Hamilton. world and companies are no different, so the confidence in getting involved is not a strong as it is for a physical event. That being said we must is an Event Management Consultant with say a very big thanks to the many companies who over 30 years of professional experience placed their confidence in us gave the support an in fields ranging from the travel, actually made it possible to host the event, and thanks tourism and hospitality industry, to them several events industry personnel who basically and over half of those years lost their income due to COVID 19, have been able to spent in the entertainment earn some income by working on the festival, most of industry focusing on largeall were happy to be doing the job we love scale events such as music festivals and conferences. ADRIAN: While it may seem that doing a virtual festival Events of note include Jamaica is easier than a live one, this is not necessarily the case”, Jazz and Blues festival, St Kitts explained Adrian Allen, “so many things have to be worked Music Festival, Turks and Caicos Music Festival, out carefully in advance, and be just right so that when it’s Jamaica Epicurean Escape, Reggae Sumfest, lights, camera, action, and that countdown gets to zero we and more. are up and live. There is no room for delays, or redos and so
Marcia McDonnough
Marcia’s emphasis and experience reside mainly in concept development, event management, festival planning and operations, access management, marketing and sponsorships management and administration.
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every detail has to be thoroughly thought through put in place in advance. We have to become excellent broadcast producers, screen writers, directors, making sure every one is on cue, everyone knows their part and that all put out their most stellar performance no matter the role.
We hope you will enjoy the product we have put together!
ECLECTIC SOUNDS for the 2021 JAZZ AND BLUES STAGE
I respect Jazz and Blues because it is so focused on the music. It’s open to new sounds – once its good music you can find it at Jazz and Blues...
J
amaica Jazz and Blues has widened its repertoire to embrace a group of talented Jamaican musicians who are more closely associated with the music underground than typical Jamaican platforms. Their music is an eclectic fusion of jazz, rock, R&B, reggae, world music and more. Despite their outstanding talent the opportunities for performance are generally limited and their primary avenue of exposure were the weekly jam sessions (before the advent of COVID-19). The acts which will take the stage on Friday 5 March are Eye of the Brainstorm, Moon and Earth and the Fullness. Janine Jkuhl and CAJE will perform on Saturday 6 March.
The jam sessions, held at various venues over the past decade included Nanook on Burlington Avenue, the Constant Spring Golf Club and the Pallet on North Avenue. The organiser of the “Jam is Back” as they were described, is Jeremy Ashbourne, composer, performer and music teacher who is passionately dedicated not only to his personal development but to assisting other like minded musicians to hone their talent and develop their craft. “There are many groups and solo acts that don’t fit the mainstream identity and who are uncompromising about what they want to express. The Jam facilitated that as there was a lack of opportunity for these performers”. The sessions provided a space that allowed personal expression as well as magical collaborations emanating from the inspiration in the moment. When Marcia McDonnough, co-producer of Jamaica Jazz and Blues approached Rosina Moder, music educator and composer, to assist in the showcasing of talented young Jamaican musicians Rosina called on these artists, most of whom she had met through the Jam.
EARTH AND THE FULLNESS 22
Singer and songwriter EARTH AND THE FULLNESS (Olivia) describes her genre as roots. “Whether or not there’s fusion, I can detect reggae in all my songs. Even
one which is very acoustic and has violins, when I am strumming the guitar, I am actually hearing Nyabinghi drums. Then there are other songs which are strictly roots reggae. But there are many different influences. I have been inspired most by Bob Marley and the Wailers. The Wailers were the rootsiest band ever, but they weren’t ever bound by genre.”
reggae
“My career is developing organically and I’m really grateful for the people who’ve been seeing that journey and strengthening it” declares Earth and the Fullness and credits a supportive family – husband Ishack, brother-in-law Inilek and father-in-law Billy Mystic. The musicians with whom she works have also helped her grow technically as she is very much an intuitive artist with very little formal training.
I can detect in all my songs
Earth and Fulness is looking forward to her performance on the Jazz and Blues stage, “I respect Jazz and Blues because it is so focused on the music. It’s open to new sounds – once its good music you can find it at Jazz and Blues, and they have always made room for musicians you might not have heard of before, so I respect that. I am happy to be on the show. I hope to be on it again! You have all this music, and you want to be able to share it. That’s the point!”
MOON, composer, lyricist and outstanding performer describes their style thus, “Jazz fusion would be the most accurate way of describing my music. I am a jazz vocalist first and foremost, but I don’t sing traditional jazz and I don’t write jazz but elements of it are in my music. Instrumentally, I am inspired by so many different genres. I love African drum rhythms; I connect heavily with reggae music although I am not a reggae artiste but the roots of it. Nyabingi patterns are present in my music, so it’s a mix of jazz and world and whatever influence I am feeling at the moment of writing.
Jazz fusion ...inspired by so many different genres
I was very excited when Rosina called me about Jazz and Blues. It has been around for years... I always followed it and its an honour to be here.
MOON 23
Moon continues, “I write lyrics, the melody and chord progression. I play the guitar and a little piano but I don’t perform with it. It informs my writing and will sometimes use it to help me compose. I deliberately don’t write all the parts of my songs because I want the musicians working with me to add their flavour. I will bring the song and have certain pieces of the arrangement which I want a certain way but everything else is left up to the connection that we are forming and what happens in the moment. This moment might occur in studio as well as in live performances. Sometimes what happens in studio is completely different from what happens on stage” “I was very excited when Rosina called me about Jazz and Blues. It has been around for years and while I had not had the privilege of attending, I always followed it and its an honour to be here. We will be bringing jazz and blues to the festival. There have been a lot of non jazz artists performing and they are amazing but jazz and blues is something I am passionate about, and when I was invited to be here I decided that that was what I wanted to do.” ...surprised and pleased to receive the invitation to perform... I was happy to see the more eclectic groups get such an opportunity...
THE EYE OF THE BRAINSTORM, led by Jeremy Ashbourne, is a talented group of musicians who will bring the jazz element to the Jamaica Jazz and Blues stage on Friday 5 March 2021. They exist primarily in Jamaica’s music underground and Jeremy Ashbourne was both surprised and pleased to receive the invitation to perform. He commended the organisers “for taking on this weird group of musicians. I was happy to see the more eclectic groups get such an opportunity”. The band is comprised of four primary members Joel Ashbourne on keyboard and sometimes vocals, Darryl, aka Kuki, on vocals and guitar, Tobi vocals, Jeremy drums and background vocals, and Spider the auxiliary bass player. They will be joined by veteran saxophonist, I-Sax in Ja – a Canadian musician who has been based in Negril for many years.
jazz-based unique
THE EYE OF THE BRAINSTORM 24
blend of music to the stage...
Eye of the Brainstorm will bring their unique jazz-based blend of music to the stage, they are “about expressing ourselves and being true to what inspires us, we have wide musical interests and wide musical tastes and we don’t want to limit ourselves says Jeremy Ashbourne, leader of the band and a classically trained musician who plays several instruments. He commends the producers for their courage in undertaking this “mammoth task”. “I really appreciate the fact that this is happening. The organisation, the production the logistical oversight at this scale takes dedication and commitment and I commend and appreciate that the Jazz team took the initiative and provided an opportunity for performances.”
JANINE COOMBS, also known as Janine Jkuhl is an eclectic singer-songwriter, who admires music and the art of music, perfect fit for Jazz as the parent company of the festival is actually “The Art of Music”. At the tender age of three Janine was introduced to music by learning her first musical instrument, the piano. She is influenced by many genres of music, and this can be heard fused in her Indie music style. She also writes and sings classical, jazz, alternative, reggae, adult contemporary and Indie-Pop. I was Her most recent performance was at the Global Inaugural was ecstatic! It has been my Caribbean Party for the First Female American Vice President dream to perform Kamala Harris 2021 and has also been featured and on the main stage of interviewed on CNN "The Voices of the Pandemic". Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival because it as such a diverse festival...
...influenced by many genres of music... fused in her
Indie music style
“When I got the call from Music Unites that I was selected to perform on the 2021 Jazz and Blues show I was ecstatic! It has been my dream to perform on the main stage of Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival because it as such a diverse festival, it has class and sophistication and is different from any other Jamaican festival. That is what my music attracts. I didn’t get to perform at the Bali Spirit Festival in Indonesia last March, because of COVID 19, which would have been my first major festival and then, Jamaica Jazz and Blues becomes my first major festival!”. It was an absolutely fantastic feeling.”
JANINE JKUHL 25
CAJE (pronounced “Cage”) is comprised of present students of the UWI. CAJE combines members of two distinct musical groups, the Classical Ensemble and the Jazz Ensemble. The Classical Ensemble comprises mainly a group of players of string and wind instruments who play mostly classical music; while the Jazz ensemble is a group of players of popular band instruments who perform mostly Jazz. CAJE is not a paid group and its work is sustained by the individuals’ love of playing music and the informed guidance and passion of Peter Ashbourne.
passionate about their music
The festival will premiere the Peter Ashbourne Medley 'To Toots' which was commissioned by the Festival organisers in honour of the late Toots Hibbert. This new composition will be performed by 'CAJE' led ...the members by the composer himself. of the group were very happy to be on Peter Ashbourne explained that CAJE did a concert the Jazz and Blues season every year and the “Tribute to Toots was platform... very much in line with what we generally do, but on a larger scale. It was right up our street”. He said the members of the group were very happy to be on the Jazz and Blues platform. “They were doubly happy because they had been working hard for their 2020 season, but COVID-19 hit, and everything was shut down. Being in the Jazz and Blues Festival has somewhat made up for that disappointment.” He added that as a group of university students there were people of all different professions in the group – engineers, marine biologists, etc. – but were also serious and passionate about their music.
CAJE 26
“We feel extremely blessed special treat. In addition, it gives me great pleasure to know that I have played a part in helping someone to be able to showcase the to showcase their skills and follow their dreams. exceptional talent of these musicians’, Marcia expressed, “When I first I truly hope that this experience got involved in finding artists for the small stage at Jazz, it was very important to me to expose new on the festival will help to and unexpected talent. It was a joy to me to watch push them further along their as the audience discovered and were amazed by paths to success, and one day I people they had never heard about, never expected to see. As a matter of fact, people used to come to can be even more proud when the festival in those days to discover new talent, it they become superstars.” was definitely the icing on the cake as well as the extra secret ingredient that made the festival such a
A special treat at Jamaica Jazz and Blues was strolling through marketplace which always offered a varied selection of works by Jamaica’s finest creative and artistic entrepreneurs presenting original and indigenous, sculpture, art, clothing, woodwork, jewellery, ceramics and more. THIS YEAR A VIRTUAL ARTISAN VILLAGE will allow our guests view the products and purchase directly online. Be sure to check out our virtual products and have your Mastercard at the ready to treat yourself!
ANTILLIAN CHARM - Life-like, hand sculpted and hand painted, the ceramic flora and fauna, mounted on canvas in solid wood shadow boxes are unique wall decor and delightful gifts. Current collections include Jamaican Natives, Birds, Wild Orchids of the World.
BAMBUSA - Specializes in beautiful handcrafted and laser engraved gift
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designs made from nature. The collection includes photoboards, photo gift boxes, wood journals, and more.
BRESHEH -
A range of bespoke bags and accessories including: backpacks, duffle bags, laptop carriers, pouches, totes, face masks among others. As a Bresheh Family Member, you get inclusive personalization with name or initials.
DIVINE TREASURES -
Offer innovative, high quality handmade items products include leather purses, handbags, sandals and more.
PURE CHOCOLATE - Handmade, fineflavoured, farm-to-bar chocolate. Uniquely packaged with fine art illustrations.
PURPLE JADE - For one-of-a-kind, handmade jewellery unmatched in quality and value. The brand is dedicated to celebrating the woman who enjoys being an individual through elegant and adventurous statement, pieces.
SHIEVELLE - Organic- based hair and skin care brand that provides a line of dual – purposed oils, butters and soaps.
SN KRAFT - Joined forces with Monex Ltd they and now have combined experience and skills of 100 years in manufacturing souvenirs. Creating wooden crafts and souvenirs, Monex Ltd. generates income for the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre, a non-profit, charitable organization, which is operated by the Mona Rehabilitation Foundation. It provides jobs for ex-patients of the centre and disabled persons in general. The main project is a woodwork shop that manufactures high quality craft items.
ULTIMATE ART - Visual art, hand painted images which allow the viewer to contextualize authentic Jamaican experience.
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YOU CAN the Magic HELP US BACK! Bring
M
any people asked why we didn’t charge for the s h o w… We w a n t e d t o Bring the Magic Back to as many as possible by sharing wonderful musical talent and providing an amazing entertainment experience without the
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burden of a set fee, especially during this time when so much has changed our way of life. However, this wouldn’t be possible without the kind support of sponsors and donors and we invite you to become a part of the Magic.
Your gift of cash will indicate your belief in the project, show your appreciation for the talent and the experience, and will help us to achieve our objective of assisting some in our industry who have been deeply affected financially by the fallout caused by COVID 19.
The Music Unites Foundation of Jamaica, a non-profit organisation that is totally funded by donations and corporate support, was set up by Rosina Moder and Peter Ashbourne, two of Jamaica’s most accomplished musicians, who have been committed to nurturing musical talent among the island’s youth. They established the Foundation to assist talented musicians like those on the show to access training through scholarships, acquire musical instruments and to receive other basic support necessary for them to further their craft and
strengthen their skills. Since COVID 19, the foundation has lost its funding and is currently unable to give the support that they have done in the past. Jamaica Jazz and Blues will assist them with part proceeds from donations collected, to help them get back on track. Production and technical crew who have consistently worked behind the scenes to ensure that festivals such as the Jamaica Jazz and Blues deliver a top-class experience to all our fans, have also suffered greatly as a result of the lack of live events, that has been a result of COVID 19. Many of them have been out of work for almost a year. Already in doing this virtual show, some have been able to earn and we aim to assist others who may not have been a part of this production with part proceeds from donations. Help to make the difference! Thank you, in advance, for supporting the Jamaica Jazz and Blues 2021 virtual edition by attending, and for your kind donation.
CLICK HERE TO DONATE
8 The Band
Ken Ellis Rayven Amani
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Stars on the Rise THURSDAY MARCH 4 HOST: DEBBIE BISSOON
Joe Davis
Keturah Soul Flautist Gray
HOST: Debbie Bissoon PERFORMANCE ORDER: 8 The Band Rayven Amani Ken Ellis Joe Davis Keturah Soul Flautist Gray Iron Kyte Roots Percussionist
Iron Kyte
Roots Percussionist
Stars on the Rise THURSDAY MARCH 4
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Bunny Rose
Eye of the Brainstorm
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Earth and the Fullness
Moon
All Stars Day 1 FRIDAY MARCH 5
HOSTS: TAMI AND WAYNE MITCHELL
Jah 9
Becky Glacier
HOSTS: Tami & Wayne Mitchell PERFORMANCE ORDER: Bunny Rose Earth and the Fullness Eye of the Brainstorm Moon Jah 9 Becky Glacier Lila Ike Mortimer
Lila Ike
Mortimer
All Stars Day 1 FRIDAY MARCH 5
STAY WITH US THREE 3 MINUTE FEATURES
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Teddyson John Project
CAJE
Freetown Collective
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Zia Benjamin
Janine JKuhl
All Stars Day 2 SATURDAY MARCH 6 HOST: TERRI-KARELLE REID
Tessellated
Sevana HOST: Terri-Karelle Reid PERFORMANCE ORDER: CAJE (Tribute to Toots) Teddyson John Project Freetown Collective Zia Benjamin Janine JKuhl Tessellated Sevana Jon Secada Richie Stephens
Jon Secada
Richie Stephens
All Stars Day 2 SATURDAY MARCH 6
CIRCLE JAMAICA THREE 3 MINUTE FEATURES
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Sponsors
PEPSI_S1_2PMS_NB_SM (FOR USE .25" TO 1.5")
A taste of the Island, Simply The Best
PANTONE PANTONE 2945 185
PEPSI_S1_2PMS_NB_MEDIUM (FOR USE 1.5" TO 4") PANTONE PANTONE 2945 185
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JAMAICA
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MEMORIES M Former Air Jamaica Staff, share their memories of the early days of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival – Richard Lue, then general manger of Jamaica’s operations; Gregg Truman, then director of marketing for Air Jamaica and Marcia McDonnough.
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Richard Lue Richard Lue is often referred to as “the Godfather of Jazz & Blues”. He was, in those early days, the general manager for Jamaica and based in Kingston. He recalls being summoned by Allen Chastanet, vice president of Air Jamaica to a meeting with Mr Butch Stewart to discuss the establishment of an event. The meeting included Walter Elmore who represented the Gloucester Avenue Restaurant Association and who became central to the growth and success of the event. The rationale for the event was as to bring visitors to the island and to fill the empty Air Jamaica seats during a slow period so the time chosen was October. Once the decision was concretized, in typical Butch Stewart fashion, he decreed that it should be done in 10 weeks and it was. The idea was to establish a festival in Jamaica, along the lines of the St Lucia Jazz Festival. It was to be a community event with smaller concerts at different venues and climaxing with the big event. In the early years the big shows started early in the afternoon and ended fairly early in the night to allow people to move on to the smaller events and to dine at the restaurants in the town. Eventually, we had accept that Jamaicans preferred to go out in the night and stay to the wee hours so the community aspect fell off.
1998 NEWSPAPER AD
The stalwarts of that first festival were Richard himself, Gregg Truman, Walter Elmore, Allen Chastanet, Joy Schaffe, and some 300 volunteers from the staff of Air Jamaica. Richard declares, “Let me put this on the record – for at least the three or four first years the festival was staffed by volunteers from Air Jamaica. They worked on every aspect of the festival and worked hard”.
EARLY SUPPORT
There were many challenges and when your back is to the wall and things seem impossible who do you call? Mom, of course! Luckily, Richards mom, affectionately known as Ma Lue, was the chairman of the Reggae Sumfest board and Walter a member. He called his mom and said, “Mom, We need to borrow some stuff!”. What the unsuspecting Mrs Lue did not realise was that the Jazz festival team intended to move trailer loads of Reggae Sumfest stuff – equipment, staging, fencing – just about everything. Richard reflects “few people are aware of the support that the festival got from Reggae Sumfest. We, literally, couldn’t have pulled off the festival in those early years without them”.
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Major support also came from Jamaica Customs. As Richard recalls, “we got off to a somewhat rocky start as the very first event of that first festival, which was held at Pier 1, was delayed by several hours due to difficulties in clearing equipment at customs. However, over the years the Jamaica Customs became another stalwart supporter of the festival. They guided us and helping to make sure that equipment and performers got in in good time. It was these types of partnerships and support that resulted in the growth and success of the festival.
THE VENUES
SKY BOXES AT CINNAMON HILL We moved from Rose Hall and Montego Bay to James Bond Beach, Oracabessa. This had a different type of charm. However, limited access with one narrow road coming in and out created a bottleneck and major annoyance for patrons.
The next venue was the Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, Rose Hall. This was the favourite of many people and it was beautiful. This The first venue for the main show was the Rose Hall Great was where we first constructed sky boxes House. Other shows that had been held there generally used and sponsors had the space to be creative in the house as the backdrop for the stage, but we turned it their activations on the ground. When it got around and the sea became the backdrop and the grounds dark, we would light bonfires on the hill behind formed a natural amphitheatre. Of course, that created the crowd which not only contributed to the issues for the construction and support of the stage but ambience but generated heat to warm up the, we pulled it off. The ambience we were trying to create sometimes, cold venue. It had its logistic issues was a relaxed, picnic setting with patrons spreading their as changing rooms were located at the bottom of blankets on the ground – a Hollywood Bowl scenario. the hill and so we had to transport the performers up and down the hill. The show grew in popularity and soon outgrew this venue. The move was made to the Aqueduct, where there was much more space both to set up the show and also provide more than adequate parking. It was flat and easier to work on. The main attraction was the aqueduct itself which provided a beautiful backdrop for the stage. The final venue was the Trelawny Stadium. This was the best space in terms setting up for the show – there was space and comfortable facilities for patrons. My favourites were Rosehall Great House to which I had a sentimental attachment and eventually the stadium which was easy to work with.
42 THE AQUEDUCT
TRELAWNY STADIUM
CINNAMON HILL
INTERESTING MOMENTS
The very first event of the first festival was held at Pier 1. In addition to getting off to a very late start, the sea became increasingly rough and the show went on against backdrop of gigantic waves crashing onto the rocks, but the party did not stop! The second year at Rosehall Greathouse coincided with World Cup Football and I remember we had to put TV sets in the trees to keep patrons abreast of the games. In those days there were no LED screens. The early years of the Jazz Festival were practically synonymous with rain. It was staged initially in the October which was a very rainy month. Seasoned patrons never forgot their rain gear. The decision was made to avoid this by moving to the last weekend in January when we also made the move to James Bond Beach. The show on Friday went well and there was no rain. At about 6:00a.m on Saturday morning there was the unmistakable sound of rain. The rain was relentless and damaged the stage making it impossible to put on the show and all acts were rescheduled for the Sunday night. Patrons were livid. Many demanded their money back. Chaos was the only word to describe it. The show on Sunday was one of the biggest shows ever put on in Jamaica. There were eight band changes. The pressure on the production team was enormous. But all is well that ends well as it was an outstanding show and everyone was satisfied. Of course the performances – The Isely Brothers at the first show at Rose Hall, Air Supply, Kenny Rogers at Cinnamon Hill, Celine Dion, Diana Ross who enraged the crowd and the brilliant performance of Billy Ocean as he saved the night. A Really special moment for me was watching the show with the great Johnny Cash as he sat, unobtrusively, under the bonfires at Cinnamon Hill.
Gregg Truman
My other memory of the later years was Celine Dion’s sound check. She came into the stadium in the evening before the show and came on stage for her sound check.
The first year on the evening of the main show at Rosehall Greathouse, rain was She looked around and saw everyone getting pouring down like it can only in Jamaica. the grounds ready…putting out chairs, putting We were experiencing almost Monsoon-like final touches to the booths etc. She called conditions, but the acts were going on until it out to everyone using the mic and said..” was time for the final act – the Isely Brothers. hey, everybody come closer”, and then she The limousine brought them from the hotel to started the sound check. Her sound check the parking lot close to the stage. Ronald Isely was fabulous and everyone in the stadium looked down and between the parking lot and had a wonderful time. About a week later the stage was a mud lake. He said “I am not going someone I knew saw me and said, “Bwoy down in that. I am not getting my alligator boots dirty Marcia, I was so happy that I came early and in this mud! What were we going to do? We ran back to Sandals saw Celine’s early show”. Of course, I didn’t and brought hundreds of towels from the laundry room and know which early show she was talking about… laid them out for him to walk on so he wouldn’t get his boots only to realise that she thought the sound dirty. His performance was amazing! check was actually an early show. Celine was just awesome in every way.
Marcia McDonnough
I can't speak about Jazz without mentioning Walter Elmore. Even though I had worked with I remember that year at Rose Hall the festival from inception as a member of Air Greathouse when we had to mount Jamaica, it was Walter who truly brought me TV sets in the trees for one of the into to the full production and management of qualifying games for World the event when he took it over from Air Jamaica. Cup Football. The match was That started the most wonderful journey for me as it underway, the tension was went from conceptualising the look and feel, figuring high; Jamaica needed a goal out who the artists should be, developing relationships to win. Black Uhuru was on with the sponsors and so much more. stage singing “Solidarity”. When it came to the part of the Walter has a gift for figuring out the production of large song that asked, “What we need, what we events. He would go to an empty piece of land… full of bush need? the crowd shouted, ‘A GOAL”. Sure and trees, and he would say, “Marcia see the stage over enough, just after that we scored and were there, the skyboxes facing that way, and the food court in one step closer to qualifying for the World that space” and the venue would come to life on the bushy Cup. Everyone was ecstatic! piece of land as he described it. It was amazing. I remember when we had to move from Rose Hall Aqueduct to the Trelawney Stadium, and we agonised over leaving Montego Bay and going into Trelawny which seemed so far away. We decided to call it Greenfield Stadium so that it wouldn’t sound so far. And within weeks we did a full campaign with digital flyover and all, to get people comfortable with the idea. When we finished setting up the stadium with all the skyboxes and the booth layouts etc, the transformation was amazing.
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O
f course working with so many superstar international performers, learning how they thought, what needed to be done to ensure their performances were flawless was in itself is something I would not have experienced if it were not for the Jazz and Blues Festival.
So I do wish to thank Walter, not only for really entrenching me into the world of large events, but especially this year for having the confidence and faith in Adrian and me to put on Jamaica Jazz and Blues 2021. We intend to do him proud and to make sure that the Jamaica Jazz and Blues again takes its pride of place at the peak of festivals in the Caribbean.
Celebrating the 2008 launch of Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival are (from left) Zachary Harding, Walter Elmore, Minister Edmund Bartlett, Carole Guntley and Shaggy.
CIRCLE JAMAICA with
Richie Stephens
R
ichie Stephens is part of a feature called Circle Jamaica, which we will be shown on 5 March. It showcases popular destinations, the culture, food and people. Richie has been a musical ambassador and a partner of the festival over the years.
Appleton Estate in St Elizabeth, Negril in Westmoreland, the Hip Strip in Montego Bay, St James, White River Park, and Fern Gully in St Ann, Blue Hole in Portland and in Kingston the Bob Marley Museum, Ribi’s and Fleet Street, Downtown and Port Royal are the stops that Richie Stephens made as he circled Jamaica. The tour will share the beauty of Jamaica with the thousands of international members of the audience that are expected to tune in to watch the show. It will also remind Jamaicans at home and abroad of the exquisite beauty of the island and to encourage them to visit as soon as possible.
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Richie Stephens is one of the favoured Richie Stephens expressed his joy at being performers who has performed on the able to host the tour as it served as a reminder JJ&B stage repeatedly and is looking of the lushness of the island and of the country’s forward to his first virtual presentation. rich and varied culture. “It was a revealing and “As artistes we have to learn to adjust captivating experience. I learnt so much. The visit to working on the virtual stage and to Appleton Estate was an education. The estate is to be as professional as when on the really a community which in addition to the distillery physical stage. has a school for the children of staff as well as a housing complex for staff. The highlight of the visit was the privilege of meeting the illustrious Joy Spence, the only female master blender in the world.” Every stop had its individual appeal. For instance, Fern Gully, he learnt, had over 300 species of ferns and before it was transformed into a dry river bed had been one of the eight rivers of Ocho Rios. “There is no doubt that the Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival will be a fitting platform from which to share the attractions which make our country a favourite destination for tourists the world over”, he said.
It is a great opportunity for me and I am happy to help ‘Bring the magic Back’.”
WATCH VIDEO FOR MORE INFORMATION
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STAY WITH US Have fun with them as they show the world some of the amazing places to stay in Jamaica. Check out our video features on March 6 and get a peep of where you must stay on your next visit to Jamaica.
visit to Jamaica. GEEJAM HOTEL
PORT ANTONIO, JAMAICA
Join The Mitchells as they explore some of the hottest hotel destinations in Jamaica.
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Perched on the edge of the Blue Mountains rainforest overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Geejam Hotel is located on the north-east coast of Jamaica.
ROYALTON RESORTS TRELAWNY, JAMAICA
Royalton offers a unique experience where beautiful architecture is combined with incomparable service and incredible attention to detail. Every aspect of your stay-from unlimited à la carte dining to the signature handcrafted Dreambed™- has been carefully designed to deliver personalized service that meets your unique needs. It is a magical destination that combines natural beauty with modern convenience and has played host to a loyal celebrity and artist following (many of whom have made music history in the onsite recording studio. Its off the grid, yet totally dialed in. You’ll want to come back again and again. It is the product of music industry veterans and developers Jon Baker and Steve Beaver.
MOON PALACE
OCHO RIOS, JAMAICA Experience a vacation paradise where all-inclusive luxury harmonizes with laid-back Jamaican charm. Gourmet dining, over-the-top amenities, luxurious accommodations and more await you at Moon Palace. Special rates offered to patrons who book their hotel stay during event period (March 4 - 6, 2021) for future stays at the Moon Palace as follows: Resort View - USD$390.00 SGL/DBL per night Ocean View - USD$448.00 SGL/DBL per night Ocean View with Balcony - USD$470.00 SGL/ DBL per night.
Special rates offered to patrons who book their hotel stay during event period (March 4 - 6, 2021) for future stays at the Royalton Bluewaters as follows: U S D $ 14 0 p e r p e r s o n p e r n i g h t b a s e d o n double occupancy. USD$210 SGL per night. USD$45 per child per night ages 2-12. 1 child free when sharing with 2 adults.
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SECRETS
Set on a picturesque peninsula surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the adults only Secrets St. James Montego Bay offers luxurious vacation experiences in a serene tropical setting. Cool off in one of the resort’s refreshing pools or a luxury spa with indoor massage cabins and Zen Beauty Salon, try out resort-offered activities like cooking and dance lessons. Secrets offers the ultimate vacation experience
STRAWBERRY HILL
Time seems to stand still at Strawberry Hill Jamaica Luxury Resort, set high in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains.
Each unique cottage is snugly nestled within the mountain’s contours angled to capture their own breathtaking and ravishing view. Mountains on one side with the city of Kingston far below, on the other, surrounded by the blue Caribbean Sea gleaming beyond.
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WATCH VIDEO FOR MORE INFORMATION
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THROWBACK VIDEOS
OF ICONIC PAST PERFORMANCES
TONI BRAXTON
TESSANE CHIN & CELINE DION
CHAKA KHAN
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