New York: Frigid temperatures and nearly a foot of snow which blanked parts of New York state did not deter thousands of enthusiastic reggae fans who turned out at the Resort World Casino ballroom in Queens, NY last Sunday for the second annual Ladies Ball which featured R&B hit machine Freddie Jackson, Richie Stephens, Sanchez, Cocoa Tea, Marion Hall and K'Coneil.
When the curtain fell just after midnight, it was Jamaica’s Music Ambassador Richie Stephens, fresh from his masterful performance at the 2015 Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival in Trelawny, who held court and left over 3,500 screaming reggae fans begging for more.
The talented reggae singer, writer and dancer who is enjoying the best year of his career proved his star power, delivering a cadre of hits that warmed hearts. The 'Live your Life' singer got the party started with his 1993 hit song 'Trying To Get To You' and upped the anti with 'Colour Of Love' and 'Fight Back,' his 1992 combination single that was recorded with Garnet Silk. It was time to celebrate so he segued in 'Let's Drink' which was well received. He then took the crowd down memory lane, enthralling them with an amazing tribute to fallen reggae icons Dennis Brown, John Holt and Gregory Issacs.
His gospel segment was even more engaging as he took patrons to church and back with songs like 'Amen' and 'What A Mighty God We Serve.' The cup came runneth over with ‘Weakness For Sweetness.' Stephens concluded his powerful set with a taste of his new Ska Teck Dance and what a treat it was. He was brought back for a well earned encore at which time he delivered the full dance route. He displayed exceptional dance skills and even did a split and push ups during his dance routine before closing out his set with a stirring rendition of the Sam Cooke classic 'A Change is Gonna Come.'
Other powerful performances were delivered by Sanchez who was making his second appearance at the Ladies Ball in as many years. He charmed fans with 'Amazing Grace,' 'One In A Million,' 'Lonely Won't Leave Me Alone', 'Missing You' and 'Chronic.’ Singjay Cocoa Tea, who had not performed in New York at a major festival in some time, could do no wrong and had fans singing along to popular songs like 'I Lost My Sonia,' ' Rikers Island' and 'Good Life.'
R&B crooner Freddy Jackson was at his magnificent best. The ‘Rock Me Tonight’ singer who is known for his seductive love songs teased the crowd with 'You Are My Lady,’ ‘Rock Me Tonight’ and ‘Tasty Love which were all executed with ease and precision. Other performers included Marion Hall aka Lady Saw who showcased her two personalities and New York based singer K'Coneil.
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