Krista Henry, Staff Reporter
Freddie McGregor (left), Richie Stephens (centre) and Maxi Priest (right) celebrate on stage at 'Take Me Away', held at the National Indoor Sports Centre, Independence Park on Sunday May 28. - WINSTON SILL/FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
RICHIE STEPHENS' 'Take Me Away' concert dazzled with its star power last Sunday night. The event staged at the National Indoor Sports Centre and hosted by FAME personality François St Juste, featured an appreciation of acts from gospel, reggae and disco.
Stephens proclaimed that the concert is not about popular chart topping music but about artistes who can truly perform. The show delivered just that as the performances were genuinely memorable with music provided by the band Masterpiece.
Chevelle Franklyn, the night's first performer, had the audience on their feet within her first seconds on stage as she proclaimed "I'm here to bring some church."
After a few numbers from Franklyn, the man of the night Richie Stephens came out to an enthusiastic crowd. Stephens brought love into focus as he sang hit after hit, followed by a classic love song I'm So In Love. The already excited crowd, could not stay in their seats any longer as veteran George Nooks entered the stage singing Like a Bridge Over Troubled Waters, giving the song a true reggae flair that only Nooks could deliver.
MELLOW VIBE
The mellow vibe created fell into full bloom as Cindy Breakespeare made her debut on the 'Take Me Away' stage. Breakespeare showcased that she has been in the music industry in more ways than one. She did a memorable rendition of Turn Your Lights Down Low, a song said to be originally written for her by Bob Marley.
The next performer, A.J. Brown reminded the audience of the true reason they were there, "to give to charity". The concert is to benefit the Bustamante Children's Hospital, the Savanna-la-Mar infirmary and the Russia Basic School in Westmoreland.
Having pointed that out, Brown displayed his vocal talents doing a rendition of an opera song which had the audience awed by the strength and range of his voice.
Legendary instrumentalist Ernest Ranglin followed with a Bob Marley song, Lively Up Yourself.
The group Lust, performers from last year, maintained the diversity, bringing energy through songs such as Celebrate (disco) and Marvin Gaye's Sexual Healing. The two most anticipated performances of the night were Maxi Priest and Freddie McGregor. Both gave a very good set, singing hit after hit to the roars of the audience. Audience members took every opportunity to greet Priest, who welcomed all, advocating through music, unity and peace, saying "wave those peace signs in the air, no matter what colour, race or class you are".
The show ended on a note of gratitude to reggae greats as McGregor, Holt, Stephens, Priest and Nooks did a tribute to reggae star Dennis Brown. Holt and McGregor were honoured by the KSAC receiving a gold medal each from Mayor Desmond McKenzie. Said they were elated to receive credit for their contribution to the music world.
McGregor, upon recieving the award stated, "dis is fi mi Emmy tonight". Holt also commented "I feel honoured, happy to know that the people are happy. I have achieved the world's prestigious award coming from such an honourable man, the Mayor of Kingston".
