January 22nd 2011
St. Lucia Jazz Is On
By Kendell “Scady” Eugene

(Photo) John Legend

The dates are set and the artistes have been booked and confirmed! The 20th Annual Saint Lucia Jazz is known for presenting the hottest and best line ups and this year is no different. Without the help of B.E.T, this year, the island’s biggest activity will feature artistes from different genres and cultures. It is the only annual event to successfully bring together various cultures such as African, East Indian, American, Caribbean and the list continues.

For the first time the launch, held at the exquisite St. Lucia Golf Country Club in Cap Estate was done simultaneously in front of a captive audience at the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) Marketplace in Jamaica.

(Photo) Morgan Heritage

As everyone eagerly awaited the artistes for this year’s Jazz, Special Events Committee Chairman, Cuthbert Didier made note that the first set of world acclaimed acts would hit the stage on April 30th with a slew of international renowned artistes throughout the two-week period. He also noted that specific days would be devoted to a certain genres.

(Photo) Taj Weekes

Persons who are lovers of “straight ahead” Jazz would love the Wednesday and Thursday night line up. Wednesday night will feature a musical blend of Ledisi, Regina Carter and Allison Marquis & Eclectic Pan Jazz. Thursday night will feature Sixun, Augustin “Jab Duplessis featuring Derede Williams and Bad Ass Brass. The venue for both shows is the Gaiety On Rodney Bay.

The weekend shows are dedicated to World Music; Rhythm and Blues, Funk and Contemporary Jazz. Artistes include Morgan Heritage, Carimi Angelique Kidjo, Mervyn Wilkinson, Maceo Parker, Yellowjackets, Taj Weekes, John Legend, Chuck Brown, Mike Stern with Richard Bona, Saint Lucia Collective (the largest groupings of local acts to appear on stage) and Anacaona.

(Photo) Carimi

Yes we know one name is missing but in the coming weeks you will see him in the YO! Magazine!

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