Dion delivers show stopper

Dion delivers show stopper
Photo by Denise Mason

As Jamaica celebrates its 50th Anniversary of Independence, multi-platinum international superstar Celine Dion delivered a golden performance to the more than 20,000 people at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium on Friday, Jan. 27.

The show was entitled “16th Annual Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival — The Art of Music.”

With an outstanding showcase to bring the curtains down on the second night of a stellar three-day festival, sponsored by the Jamaica Tourist Board, Dion delivered a set, which included favorites such as “I Drove All Night,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Prayer,” “Where Does My Heart Beat Now” and “Treat Her Like A Lady” featuring a special appearance by Jamaican singer/songwriter Diana King.

In a show lasting more than an hour, Dion closed with “My Heart Will Go On,” the soundtrack from the blockbuster film Titantic, leaving patrons wanting more.

The Friday night lineup included Jully Black, Nicole Henry, Tami Chynn & Tessane Chin, and Richie Stephens & Gentleman.

Jamaica’s musical greats Richie Stephens and Shaggy were recognized by festival organizers Art of Music Productions for their contribution to the island’s music.

Chairman of Art of Music Productions Walter Elmore presented Stephens with an award to recognize his nearly two decade-long contribution to Jamaican music. Shaggy was honored for promoting Jamaica’s culture internationally.

Also, sharing the occasion on Friday, Jan. 27 at the Jamaica Tourist Board sponsored event was German reggae artist, Gentleman, who shared the stage with Stephens earlier that evening.