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Photos By Neil Berment
Atlanta Reggae Fest 2008 ft Beres Hammond
Date: Monday 1st September 2008
Location: Dreamz Night Club. Atlanta, GA
Promotions: Island Coast Entertainment, Brightworks Promotions
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Labor Day 2008 would most certainly be one to remember as the Atlanta Reggae Fest 2008 ended in great style at the Dreamz Night Club, Atlanta. In an attempt to represent unity, promoter Mark of Island Coast Entertainment, decided to make it an 'All White Affair', and asked all patrons to wear white. With the exception of about 10 people, we're happy to report that everybody followed these instructions ... even the TJJ crew were in white! And allyuh know how we like to follow instructions, right??!! No time fuh stickin'!! As soon as we arrived (around 8pm), it was backstage business all the way. And because Tuesday was a working day, the show began at 7pm. (Okay, so we were a bit late ... is ah Trini ting!! Hehe)

Dreamz ... wow ... a absolutely fantastic location - beautiful setting with both flat screen TVs and massive projectors so one could see the performers from anywhere in the club. There were at least 4 VIP sections and a media barricade, at least 6-10 feet, from the stage. The restaurant section of the venue was open, and the waitresses for the night were keeping busy so people did not have to leave their spot. This venue was well organized and it was a sign of things to come.

After a few new and upcoming artists kicked off the show, by 9pm, Irie Love (photo), on tour with Morgan Heritage, commanded the attention of the Atlanta people as she performed under a beautifully lit stage. Irie was followed by Laza, who then made way for Morgan Heritage. It was more than evident that Morgan Heritage has a huge following in Atlanta, as their reception spoke for itself. In greeting the audience, lead singer Peter Morgan new just what to say, to bring the best out of the ATL, and he did, having the people sing along with the band.

At the end of their performance, the TJJ crew followed the Heritage family backstage to get a up close and personal photos. And to our surprise, the acoustic soul singing sister, India Arie (www.indiaarie.com), was outside to greet them. And as always, we were first on the scene to witness this historic moment, getting in on the action as well (photo). Though she was not here to perform at the Reggae Fest, India Arie's presence around the artists was a special moment for all. Una Morgan even commented that India is, and has always been and inspiration to her.

As soon as all the commotion surrounding India Arie's presence had died down (only because she left), it was time to get the ball rolling again and Mix Master David wasted no time spinning the turntables for the next ½ hour. By 11.30pm, the patient crowd was ready to see Reggae icon Beres Hammond on his 'A Moment In Time' tour. But before Beres could grace the ATL crowd, members of his touring party, Lenya and Thea Marice opened up for him in fine style. Next came Courtney John, the smooth singing brother from Jamaica (who just happened to be Beres' nephew), and trust me, the music ting .... run in de family!!! Courtney was followed by Melissa, Nicole and Dorret of the Harmony House Singers. They were fantastic! And even though the crowd was now getting a bit impatient to see Hammond, they certainly did not mind seeing the next artist, actor/singer LEON (photo). Yes people, we're talking about the same Leon from The Five Heart Beats, Waiting to Exhale, Cool Runnings and a host of other movies. Yes, that Leon opened up for Mr. Hammond, thrilling all the ladies at Dreamz. As Leon made his way off stage and beckoned Beres, it was a total explosion of screams. Beres entered in a white long-sleeved shirt with a white Kangol hat, all in an effort to represent unity.

People, no lie, Hugh Beresford Hammond is a true boss on stage!! He is the ideal love Rockers/Reggae stage performer. An hour into his show, Beres sat on one of the speakers to tell the Atlanta people a story. It was like we were all in school and he was the teacher ... and for a brief moment, no one moved, and as he rose from the speakers singing the words of "Putting Up a Resistance" ... his voice was so sweet that one fan (standing close up to the stage) shut her eyes and began to cry. Truly a 'Moment in Time' for the people of Atlanta.

By 1am, Beres left the stage to the cheers of the crowd. We caught up with him back stage and presented him with a Trini Jungle Juice T-shirt (photo). Beres definitely showed the TJJ family love all the way!! Much respect to Beres and his entourage. Heather thanks again for your considerations. Island Coast and Brightworks, great job! Do let us know what's next on your agenda.

JoyJuice ... Out and About!