Singer Richie Stephens performing at one of two sold-out, back-to-back Rhythms of Africa concerts in Florida.
Photo by Anthony “ER Guru” Turner
The 13th annual Rhythms of Africa concert, held at the Miramar Cultural Center in Florida, reached unimaginable heights, with two back-to-back sold-out concert nights that celebrated Caribbean heritage.
Hosted by Wayne Messam, Mayor of Miramar, Florida and presented by Willie Stewart O.D., formerly of the iconic reggae group Third World, the event delivered top-tier musical performances from Richie Stephens, JC Lodge and Gem Myers after a powerful foundation laid by the Rhythms of Africa Band that “truly set the tone,” according to Jamaican-born, New York-based entertainment publicist Anthony “ER Guru” Turner.
“Richie’s brilliant performance both nights was nothing short of stellar,” Turner told Caribbean Life on Tuesday, April 21.
“From the moment he stepped on stage, he connected with the audience, effortlessly weaving through hits ‘Trying to Get to You,’ ‘Fight Back.’ ‘Color of Love’ and his 1997 release ‘Weakness for Sweetness ‘ struck a balance between nostalgia and freshness, all while reminding fans why he is one of reggae’s most versatile contemporary vocalists,” he added.
Turner said Stephens “elevated the experience further with a powerful tribute segment, performing ‘Trapped’ in honor of deceased singer, songwriter Jimmy Cliff, OD, while also paying homage to fallen icons Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, drummer Sly Dunbar, and singer Ernie Smith.”
Turner said Stephens closed with a “spirited gospel medley and ska classics that included Oil In My Lamp,’ Wings of a Dove’ and ‘Simmer Down’ that brought the audience to a euphoric high.”
He said the star-studded lineup, backed by the Rhythms of Africa Band, delivered “equally compelling moments from JC Lodge and Gem Myers, whose artistry and stage presence were top tier.”
Turner said Myers captivated fans with her rich vocals on covers “My Boy Lollipop”, “No No No” and her perennial hit “One Man Girl” before she segued into “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”, while JC’s timeless hits “Telephone Love” and “Someone Loves You Honey” helped to bridged generations of reggae lovers.
She was also applauded for “More Than I Can Say,” “Make It Up to You’ and ‘Crysis,” Turner said.
Offstage, he said Stephens praised event curator Willie Stewart, calling him “a very important man to Jamaica’s music and culture.”
Stephens emphasized that Stewart’s vision for Rhythms of Africa goes far beyond entertainment.
“What he’s doing with the kids is such a great thing,” Turner quoted Stephens as saying. “He is giving them an opportunity to become a part of musical greatness, helping them to stay focused and stay out of trouble.”
Turner said that impact was evident as students from Somerset Academy High School delivered a “vibrant, high-energy drumming showcase that opened the show.”
Stephens summed up the experience with gratitude, calling it “a magnificent experience” to headline two sold-out nights and thanking Stewart for selecting him “not once, but twice” to be part of what he described as a “wonderful show” and “great production.”
Turner said that, at the close of the performances each night, Stewart announced that 100 percent of proceeds raised from the song, “Have a Little Faith” – which he produced with Sean Wedderburn and singers Leroy Sibbles, J.C. Lodge, Glen Washington, Carlene Davis, Wayne Armond, Dwisdom, Gem Myers, Patrick Ulysees Pinkney, Alecia Marie and Carl McDonald – will be donated to supporting Jamaica’s hurricane victims following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.