Excellent teaser acts at Rebel Salute Ochi launch
Herb Curb for legal marijuana smoking returns
REBEL SALUTE 24 had its final launch on Wednesday night at Jewel Dunn’s River, two nights before the event kicked off last night at Grizzly’s Plantation in Priory, St Ann.
Sponsors, local and overseas media and several artistes who are booked to perform on the show, turned out for the launch.
Following the success at its initial rollout at last year’s show, the organisers have again opted to include the Herb Curb at Rebel Salute, as confirmed by director, Jahyudah Barrett.
But the highlight of the evening, no doubt, was the sneak preview of the show that the audience got from several of the artistes booked to perform over the two nights.
LAUNCH PERFORMERS
Among them was Chuck Turner, whose 1987 hit, a cover of Maurice White’s I Need You, was one of several hits by producer King Jammys that year.
When he sang the first line, the audience response was Wickerman instantaneous, demanding an encore. It was the only song he did on the night.
Wickerman, without Captain Barkey, who passed away over four years ago, delighted with Ooh Jah, and got a forward with Yardman.
Duane Stephenson was brilliant in delivering Rastafari and Better Tomorrow, while Agent Sasco, the final act, also excited the audience.
For those at the launch, their performances would have whet their appetite and heightened their anticipation of the festival.
Encouraging performances also came from Shakespear and Chevaughn.
Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Area Two Fitz Bailey, who spoke at the launch, encouraged patrons to cooperate with the police during the festival, while reminding them of the no-weapons requirement of the event.
Maxalia Salmon of the Rebel Salute Foundation reminded the audience of the good work being done by the foundation, including the scholarships offered to students at the Marcus Garvey Technical High School, located in St Ann’s Bay.
Mayor of St Ann’s Bay, Michael Belnavis; chairperson of the Ocho Rios Runaway Bay chapter of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association, Vana Taylor; and sales director for Jewel and Hilton brands, Charmaine Dean, all spoke of the benefits of Rebel Salute, and encouraged the organisers to keep the show in the Garden Parish.