The artists were all accounted for, Gyptian, I-Wayne, Bascom X, Ky-Enie, Guidance, and more, but at CelebrityFest Part One the real celebs were the fans. Only in Orlando, Florida this past weekend could fans of Reggae culture music be treated to the latest and greatest artists of its next generation. This event wasn't just a show, it was a day. The fans first had an opportunity to meet and greet and take photos with the artists at an autograph signing held at Dolly-s One Stop, a local music and clothing store. Fans, who had flown and driven in from as far as Los Angeles and Kansas City to be a part of this historic event, were able to talk with their favorite artists face-to-face in an intimate, old camp environment. Catch Ky-Mani Marley next to the refrigerated roots drinks, see I-Wayne signing photos next the CD rack, wait, a nuh Gyptian dat under the Rocawear tees. No bodyguards and big tables separating them, just a cool vibe and a grateful public. Later the buzz was increasing as the word started to spread around Orlando that all of the artists were indeed in the building. From radio stations to local restaurants the down to earth caravan moved as a unit through the town.
Later that night as show time approached the venue had a steady stream of eager patrons, on fire to hear Gyptian, I-Wayne, Bascom X, Ky-Enie, and Guidance bless the stage. When the artists arrived shortly before show time Karma Korner was almost filled to capacity and the crowd was still moving in steady to position themselves in front of the tiny stage platform. Although there was a bit of disappointment when they learned that due an emergency Ky-Mani Marley would not be hosting the show. Peter, from Solar Entertainment, stepped up to the plate and skillfully brought on the first performer. Flava, of Passa Passa fame thrilled the audience with his versatile dance moves and showed them why Jamaica is always on the forefront on the party scene. A surprise performance by the extremely talented Keisha Martin left the audience completely floored. She began with her trademark version of Donny Hathaway-s "Change Gone Come" that showcases the powerful gift in her voice. Show stealer Ky-Enie entered the mix as a little known artist but by the time he finished energizing the place with songs like "Old Time Tradition" and his classic "Wings of an Angel" he walked off the stage with a whole new following. Fans wanted to hear more, but his guitar was sidelined by technical problems. Fire Star moved the crowd with his natural rhythms to keep the vibe level. Next followed Guidance with a lengthy and somewhat off key performance.
But then came the smooth sounds of "Mr. Aya Aya" himself. Bascom X took the stage to the sounds of roars and cheers. He gave it to the audience good and they loved it, although we wondered where he left his fresh dressing style this trip, opting for a football jersey and fitted cap. I-Wayne brought his balanced flavor the stage in true Rastaman style and reminded everyone why they came out. He thrilled the people with all the songs in his catalog. Brothers and sisters rocked and swayed, whistled and pumped their fists in the air. I-Wayne brought on Gyptian who entered the stage with purpose. The police had come to shut them down - one hour early. It must have only been daylight savings time to some of us, what happened to our extra hour? But Gyptian held a meditation on the stage that even made the police men ease off. He talked to the people as the lights came on about giving thanks and he focused on a woman in the front who came out to the show in her wheelchair and was so grateful to be there enjoying herself. When he closed off with "Serious Times" the whole place sang and stomped to the beat. Wow, even the police sargeant had to shake the promoter's hand.
Now, on to the promoter: Shilo of CelebrityPlus.Net. What can you say about Ms. Shilo? She did it! She pulled together a line up that has never been seen in a town where no one expected it. CelebrityFest Part One was a huge success on so many levels that all we can do is wonder what she has in store for Part Two, Part Three, and by the grace, many more.
