Review: Buju Banton & Friends “Before The Dawn” Concert

January 16, 2011
Miami, FL – The hype for Buju Banton’s return to the stage was so huge for, that even DJ’s at local in clubs in my native city of Boston had been announcing the concert for weeks. Tickets were given away across the globe, giving the concert a feeling of history in the making.

Upon arrival to Miami on Friday, first thing on the agenda were bellies full of good Caribbean food and checking out the vibe for the weekend. The restaurant of choice happened to also be a ticket vendor for the concert. Inside, the cue was an even split between ticket buyers and restaurant patrons. People were anxious to get their tickets because the show was “guaranteed” to sell-out. The promo for the concert ran regularly on the FM airwaves, confirming Marcia Griffiths being added to the bill. A Beres Hammond tune was featured at the end of the promo as a teaser, which sparked the rumor that he would be there, as well.

Some of the artists slated for “Before the Dawn” were also confirmed to perform at Rebel Salute, which was held in Jamaica the night before / morning of Buju’s show. Despite a tight schedule, a cheerful Tarrus Riley (alongside Dean Fraser) and various musical directors / engineers arrived early at the hotel on Sunday. Before Tarrus and crew went to rest we chatted about how excited all the performers were to be part of this crucial this concert and not being in onstage to support Buju was simply not an option. Throughout the weekend, this vibe of support and love for fellow artists became more and more evident. This view of the music world is unique – seldom do we see artists joining together for each other in such a personal and touching way – every act volunteered their time to show support for Buju.

At press registration, it was clear that this was not business-as-usual. We were told that we were allowed to photograph / video only the first song per artist and any video of Buju’s performance was strictly prohibited. They took this so seriously that hours later at the show the security rushed the press area so aggressively I thought I’d surely hear gunshots, but it was just a guy with a video camera trying to capture a moment of “Hills and Valleys”. The representation of international press was impressive – from Los Angles to New York to Amsterdam.

Around mid-afternoon, I accompanied Gramps Morgan and his band to sound check. This is when the Blue Wristband became the bane of my existence. Luckily, I had one on loan for a few hours while another artist rushed in from Rebel Salute. The security at the show was so strict; I’ve never seen anything like it! Strictly artists only. Reggae shows, especially long ones with multiple acts, are notorious for becoming more and more lax and the night goes on about backstage access. A veteran artist was even held out in his own car until his credentials could be verified. At least I got to see Apple’s next million-dollar ad campaign: the keyboard player for Everton Blender rehearsing last minute songs on an iPhone app. Brilliant! During the show, artists had to hang in the corridors backstage, but if you were Shaggy, Sean Paul or a Marley, you got a trailer. Buju was the only one with a plush dressing room, well deserved, I might add.

In an hour, the crowd has grown from a few dozen flag-bearing fans, to a mass of hundreds surrounding the perimeter of Bayfront Park Amphitheater. None of who, I must add, seemed to be protesting in any way. This was yet another sign for a peaceful night ahead. The sun was shining and it was the warmest day of the week, so people were just relaxing and enjoying themselves.

The gates opened promptly at 4:00 and at 4:15 Ras Michael and the Sons of Negus took the stage for ninety-minutes of Nyahbingi drumming and chants to bless the place.

The first artist up was Everton Blender, looking royal as ever his is purple suit. His energy was high as he danced his signature shuffle across the stage. His smooth vocals got the crowd especially excited with his big tune “Ghetto People Song”. The band backing him also played with Gramps Morgan, Buju’s Shiloh Band backed all the other artists.

Next up was the only female performer with a full set of the night, Nadine Sutherland. The fans loved “Action” amongst other classics. By now the crowd was roaring and Freddie McGregor really took the show to the next level. There was a definite up shift in energy at this point in the evening. Original reggae vibes were clearly on the crowd’s palate and Freddie satisfied with fan favorites like “Big Ship”. Without a break, Wayne Wonder hit the stage. Clearly this concert was going to be fast-paced, without having to pause for band changes. Michael Rose rushed the stage with “Shoot Out” and other classics like “Shine Eyed Gal”. He really brought the fire as the night wore on with increasing intensity. His energy was simply unbelievable; in fact, I think he is growing younger.

Next up was a surprising quick, yet memorable appearance by Gyptian! He was in town for a show the following evening, so I had a hunch he may show is face. Gyptian made sure to tell the crowd what a special night this was and got all the ladies screaming with “Hold Yuh” and “Nah Let Go” (played on tracks). Later, he excitedly talked to press about his upcoming album (reminding us to buy the “real thing” not the bootleg, and was very patience with rookie videographers trying to get drops). He also stated that reggae music must move to the top, where it belongs.

Gramps Morgan took the stage next with his soulful vocals. His set featured his solo hit “Wash the Tears” and also Morgan Heritage favorites like “She’s Still Loving Me”. Gramps was the last person Buju toured with for Rasta Got Soul, so the crowd began to stir with anticipation…in 2009 it was Gramps immediately followed by the Gargamel himself. Gramps finished his set with the debut of his new single “The Almighty”.

Continuing on with love songs for the ladies, Tarrus Riley took the stage with his classic show opener “Lion Paw” and his set only got more energetic with “Good Girl Gone Bad” and other Contagious tracks. His vibe was very relaxed and he even sported a backwards baseball had adorned with the “BLAK SOIL” name, much more casual that his common 3 piece suits. Dean Fraser of course blew down the house on sax. Singy Singy never fails.

Next was another surprise guest (in town for his Birthday Party the night before) – Sean Paul! He delivered endless dance classics in a full 30 minute set. Spragga Benz joined him for a brief cameo. The dancing continued with a booming welcome for Shaggy, as he entertained the crowd for another full set of classics.

The surprises didn’t stop there – DJ Khaled and Busta Rhymes with a small entourage of other vocalists brought a tough hip-hop collaboration to the stage. Busta Rhymes has still got his speed and powerful delivery after all these years.
He dedicated his hit “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See” to Buju.

Around 10:00pm, the moment that people traveled on planes, trains, and automobiles for was here. The lights dimmed and the unmistakable voice of Buju Banton began serenading the crowd from backstage. The feeling of love and unity in the house was undeniable – there was a silent serenity as all 10,000 fans hung on every note. Finally, Buju showed his face with an intense “Destiny”. He threw his arms to the sky in praise, soaking in the glory of being back on stage with his fans and family, doing was he born to do. He looked healthy and strong, dressed in a black pants and vest with a crisp white shirt. He shot in to an uplifting “Not An Easy Road” and a few tracks from his Rasta Got Soul. He mentioned many times that we are all in this [life] struggle together and if one person is not free, no one is. Buju blazed on with more fire than ever – giving 200% – he focused on his most well known material from ‘Til Shiloh. This is the Buju that moved and inspired so many youths in Jamaica –you could really feel the emotions and memories resonate throughout the crowd. Many fans were moved to tears. Buju danced and sang his heart out for 90 minutes straight. He took time to sit and talk to the crowd, continuously thanked everyone for being there in his support, it was a very intimate performance.

Throughout the evening, artists had taken time in their brief performances to mention the impact Buju had on their careers, now it was Buju’s time to give thanks to a crucial woman he met he was just starting out. The always beautiful and gracious Marcia Griffiths joined him for a sweet collaboration. Next Buju paid homage to an absent in flesh, but present in spirit, Beres Hammond. Beres was unable to make the show due to a late …rather, early… set time at Rebel Salute. It was great to see Buju sing a heartfelt rendition of “Can You Play Some More”.
What happened next was one of those live concerts moments you will never forget. You can feel it resonate deep in your soul – and it’s why you love music in the first place. Stephen Marley was brought on stage to support his close friend in a stunning version of “Duppy Conqueror”. Stephen was a vocal advocate and integral part of helping Buju be “set free again”, if even for a moment. For the final surprise cameo of the evening, Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley joined his brother and Buju for a powerful “Jah Army”. Wayne Wonder joined Buju for one more song, “Forever Young”. After the short break to pay homage to other artists, it was back to all things Buju. An intense “Driver” really drove the crowd over the edge. Could this performance get any better?? Buju called Gramps Morgan back on to the stage and there they stood, hand in hand, giving a divine version of “Psalms 23”. As the song concluded, David Markus (Buju’s attorney) was called up to stage for thanks and praises. David proudly wore his green “FREE BUJU” t-shirt in full representation of his client.

Promptly at 12:00 midnight, the lights turned on and the stage was empty. The crowd lingered for a while, though the show was clearly over. As people shuffled out, everyone was talking quietly and reminiscing about all the surprise artists and speculating how long it would be until we all got to see Buju again.

The show appeared to be a sold-out success. The producers kept time and all acts got a fair amount of stage time. Big up Rockers Island and the Gargamel Inc. team for that! The US Federal Court had granted Buju / Gargamel Inc. permission to produce this concert to raise funds to support his court and monthly security fees. Let’s hope it helped.

As many artists stated during interviews in the press tent, this is not a normal concert. This show was to raise up a brother in need and many expressed that they hoped to receive the same support if they were ever in need. The world of reggae is small, but Sunday night truly felt like it was one extended family. This night crossed cultures, oceans and continents. Even though the show was a star-studded success, there were no egos, no super-stars, just friends supporting each other through the love of music. People were there because they truly wanted to be, this was not just another day on the road.

Making the trip from Boston was completely worth it. Maybe the press situation was too restricted and having to wait 10 feet away from my friends / ride home because I didn’t have the right wrist band was a little ridiculous, but it just added to the memories. The experience of this concert will never be forgotten, the images and videos help share it with the world and I hope they do just a little justice to the intensity of the evening. Even if we see Buju announce a tour in the Fall, nothing can take away the power of this evening. History has been made.
-M. Majors

Ky-Mani Marley “Dear Dad” Book Tour 4/14/10

ATLANTA, GA – 4/14/10 The Barnes & Noble in Buckhead filled up quick with excited fans for last night’s Ky-Mani Marley’s book signing.  This was the 4th stop on his current tour to promote his book Dear Dad according to his website.  Selling out of books nearly every night so far – the fans reception was warm and welcoming.  For close to one hour, Ky-Mani intimately answered fan’s questions.  The feeling was one of community, love, and understanding – as if he was casually reasoning with friends.  Due to this special vibe in the store, he played an extended set of songs, including his father’s Redemption Song (with artist Kelly Love Jones on guitar), and as per request from a youth in the crowd Three Little Birds (where he actually brought the boy up to sing with him).  Ky-Mani spoke in depth about growing up in the brutal streets of Miami, being taken from his homeland of Jamaica, his lack of relationship with his father, and being denied the benefits of being “a Marley” until he was a teenager.   His endurance and determination to overcome hardships is inspiring and makes his book a very revealing and interesting read.  Be sure to pick it up at your local book seller!  Click here or on the photo below for the full photo report.

Ky-Mani Marley “Dear Dad” Book Tour 4/13/10

ATLANTA, GA – 4/13/10  The turn out at Atlanta’s Shrine of the Black Madonna was so much more than expected, that they had to move everyone from the bookstore into their main sanctuary in another building.  When they ran out of copies of Dear Dad, they started offering posters instead.  Ky-Mani graciously answered fan’s questions about the future of his music career (next album: Evolution of a Revolution coming soon), a Fall Caribbean tour with his Brothers, and answered questions about the book – which you will have to read first, we don’t want to give away any secrets!  After a short 2 song performance – an unreleased track and an emotional version of Dear Dad - Mr. Marley spent time with fans, signing books & taking photos.  See the full photo report here or by clicking the photos below.

Review: Caribbean Festival 2010

MIAMI, FL – This year’s Caribbean Festival featured Tarrus Riley, Capleton, Shaggy, Ky-Mani, Stephen, Julian, and Damian Marley.  Here’s the run down!  The full report can be seen on Reggaeville.com!

Tarrus started the show with an early and RAINY set.  Despite the downpour, which began just as he was being introduced, Tarrus came out from under the shelter of the stage to be closer to the fans and sang his heart out.  Notably, he made an extra effort to entertain the crowd with sing-a-longs and audience participation.  The BLAKSOIL band and Dean Fraser were high energy pumping out classics like “Lion Paw” and newer fan favorites like “Good Girl Gone Bad”.  Loyalty and love of the music proved stronger than the wind and rain.

Next up was Capleton – definitely the right person to bring the fire element to the wind and rain.  With an electrifying set, the sun could be seen creeping from behind the skyscrapers.  Just as he was really getting going, a rainbow appeared and the rain stopped.  The rest of his set was energetic as he entertained the crowd with favorites like “Jah Jah City” and new tracks like “Hation”.  He played a hearty set of nearly an hour.   

Ky-Mani Marley hit the stage next with an intense “Armed & Dangerous”.  He kept the intensity up with a strong militant vibe throughout his set.  He definitely holds an unique edginess that makes him stand out from his brothers.  The crowd loved it and he kept everyone holding their breath for when his brothers would join him … they never did.

Mr. Lover Lover was to follow.  He was out to warm up the ladies as the sun was now set and there was a chill in the air.  With his gyrating hips and hits like “Boombastic” and “It Wasn’t Me” really kept the crowd going and the energy in the air felt like night was just getting started.  He even served the crowd a medley cover songs – current hits with a touch of classic rock.  

Stephen Marley was introduced next and came out with “Exodus”.  He sprinted on stage and was trailed by brothers Julian and Damian.  Stephen took the lead for song 1 and then Julian and Damian each took turns pumping up the crowd.  Needless to say, the fans went insane.  Us photographers had to leave after 2 songs, but from word on the street says the set was a powerful 2 hours packed with Bob Marley tracks and some of their own creations.

Review: Rebel Salute 2010

ST. ELIZABETH, JAMAICA 1/16/2010

Rebel Salute celebrated its 16^th year last week.  The long-running event emphasizes a pure and conscious lifestyle and holds strictly enforced rules promoting vegetarian and drug-free lifestyles.

The dimly lit path leading up to the Port Kaiser Sports Club main gates were lined with Ital food vendors, people hustling various goods; nuts, roots tonic, and red, gold and green flags adorned with names of various artists on the bill that night. Concert-goers lined up to pass the three (!) security checks, carrying folding chairs, blankets and “reggae beds” (aka large pieces of cardboard.  Entry into the venue was sluggish, but the breeze was wispy and the bass of the first acts was pulsing through the trees.  Definitely a welcoming vibe.

Once inside the venue, the outskirts were the 14-hour homes for merchants of clothing, food, books, and donation booths to support Haiti.  The concert’s main sponsor, Pepsi, also had a strong presence with illuminated signage throughout the venue.  From the stage to the rear of the venue, there was a sloping hill, so this is where fans settled in for a long night – and a long night it was.  The star-studded line-up was filled to the brim and unique to Jamaica (with no visa issues, etc), there were very few no-shows.

Between 10pm and midnight, artists Ras Penco, Tyrical, Iley Dread, Katt (vocalist for Live Wyya band), and Noddy Virtue took the stage to warm-up the growing crowd. The beautiful MCs (Isis, Jenny Jenny, Princess Kay, DJ Sunshine, Amba) were big on announcing recent accomplishments in careers and updates in rising stardom for all the artists.  Something that stood out early in this concert was that many artists used their sets as a platform to support causes they are passionate about.

Gramps Morgan, recently home from the massively successful “Rasta Got Soul” tour with Buju Banton, supported his incarcerated friend by wearing a “FREE BUJU” t-shirt and asking the crowd to pray for him.  Morgan’s set was the first eye-opener of the evening and he is definitely settling in comfortably to his role as lead vocalist.  He even removed his famous shades for the last song.

Stevie Face and Romain Virgo were next up.  Energetic stage antics and smash hits, like Virgo’s “Mi Caan Sleep” kept the crowd engaged as the sky grew darker overhead.  As the bands changed (Live Wyya, Sane Band, and C Sharp would be rotating all night), Roots High Power Sound (Columbus, OH) dropped tracks by absent artists Buju and Sizzla.  Needless to say, the crowd went mad.

Chevaughn took the stage with C Sharp band, which was followed by an earlier-than-expected appearance by the Host with the most, Tony Rebel.  Rebel’s set was high energy and filled with fan favorites “Fresh Vegetable” and “If Jah”.  Definitely one of the event’s highlights.  Mid-way through the set, Chevaughn joined him back on stage for a few songs.  At the end, Rebel invited a youth to come out and charm the crowd, who’s voice was so memorable, we will certainly be hearing of him again.  With such an early set time, fans were left wondering who would possible come next if the headliners were coming on so soon.  This made planning a nap near impossible.

As the bands changed again, Sky Juice kept everyone roaring with laughter as he sprinted back and forth across the stage, gave a partial strip tease, and displayed his startling flexibility.  Don’t let the sagging abdomen fool you; this man is some kind of athlete.

The evening mellowed on with performances by veteran artists Anthony Malvo, Junior Mervin, and The Itals (with a moment of silence for the recently passed David Isaacs).  The history of music on the stage was awesome.   General Trees stirred things up again with songs of loving his women and gyrating hips.  Peter Metro gave a passionate performance as well.  The next big name was Barrington Levy, who’s set was far too short.  The audience tried to chant him back for more, but he didn’t take the offer.

Queen Ifrica played next; her voice resonated stronger than ever.  She played new tracks from her recent release, “Montego Bay”, but at time let her lyrics take a free transformation where passion took over and she roared like a true lioness.  Ifrica also supported the youths by bringing up a 14-year-old girl from St. Elizabeth to perform the last song.  These experienced singers reaching out the next generation will promote the positive message reggae music and culture has with generations to come.

Freddie McGregor followed, starting out the 4:00 hour.  Jack Scorpio had the task of holding the audience attention while Steel Pulse’s equipment was set-up…which seemed to take longer than their entire set.  Even with hits like “Life Without Music”, their performance wasn’t as warmly received as others.  This was apparently due to the simple fact that, since they are from the UK, the audience was not as familiar with the band’s music.

At this point, eyes were tired, some were in a restful slumber, but this was all about to change.  Fiyah! Fiyah!  Capleton commanded the full attention of every human, animal and insect in the vicinity of St. Elizabeth.  He had the crowd chanting the lyrics to “Or Wha” and debuted a song “Haitians”.  All the while, everyone waved their flags and burned their fire.  Kulcha Knox took the stage for a guest appearance as well.

Duane Stephenson took the stage next with a strong set.  His recent tour mate, Tarrus Riley followed.  Riley’s performance was one of the most dynamic of the night.  Between his expressive stage presence, to his mid-song contest to see who could hold a note longer with saxophonist Dean Fraser, his set was the most memorable. Maybe it was because the sun began to rise as the notes to “She’s Royal” and “Good Girl Gone Bad” lingered, or the fact the entire audience knew every lyric and inflection and wasn’t afraid to share it. For the record, Fraser won.

Now it was crunch time, the sun was half way up and there were so many huge names left!  Jah Cure’s sweet melodies helped the sun crest the horizon.  He sported a t-shirt with Buju Banton’s inmate number “86700-004”, and told the crowd that Banton helped him during his struggles with the system, so now it’s his turn.  He definitely left the audience longing for more Jah Cure.

Richie Spice started off the next batch of artists.  His vocals were clear, crisp and penetrated the soul, but didn’t match the long silent gazes towards the audience.

The Empress vibes were up when Alaine took the stage for her set, followed by everyone’s favorite songstress, Etana.  The Rebel Dawtas (Brooklyn, NY) were on the turntables.  Rounding out the morning were performances by I Wayne, I Octane, Bugle and Jah Mason.  These sets were more hurried, as the clock ticked on towards 10am.  There was time, however, for guest appearances by Nico D (Norway) with Jah Mason and a few tracks laid down tuff by Lutan Fyah.

By the time Marion Hall aka Lady Saw and Sasco aka Assassin took the stage, the crowd has greatly dispersed and the mass exodus up the hills had begun. Konshens, Pinchers, or Junior X, didn’t seem to appear, but if you blinked, you might have missed something.

Overall, Rebel Salute hosted an unimaginable amount of talent.  There was simply so much of it, it was hard to take it all in.  After the show, the general consensus from press and local opinion was that the concert would have been stronger spread out over 2+ days and with the additions of acts like Sizzla, Turbulence, Buju Banton and Beenie Man. Massive respect and credit must be given to stage manager, Ryan for running a tight ship.  All artists made it to the stage successfully and in one of the most organized manners I’ve ever seen.

As someone who came from overseas for the show, the fact that there were many international cultures represented was very impressive and spoke volumes of the respect that Rebel Salute holds.  There were fans from all over Europe, the United States, and as far as Japan.  Though the all-night concert may not be something to withstand on a regular basis, the experience of Rebel Salute was unique, 100% positive and well worth the trek.