SUMFEST’S highs and lows

THE curtains came down on the 20th Reggae Sumfest on July 22.

Held at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay, it was the scene of some exciting performances, and fun activities courtesy of the sponsors booths.

Reflecting on the week-long event, Summerfest Productions' Robert Russell believes the high point was the performance of Shabba Ranks whose previous appearance there was in 1994.

Another highlight for Russell was American Rhythm and Blues singer Trey Songz. As for any low point, his response was a blunt "No! Everything really worked."

He added: "It was a good crowd on all three nights. We have had better years though," he said.

The final night — International Night II — saw patrons waiting a long time to see headliner R Kelly. Russell explained that the singer was given a specific schedule to be at the venue.

"We waited for nearly an hour, we were there waiting, he came late. I'm upset and disappointed that he came late. It's just hard to control them," he said.

Both R Kelly and Shabba Ranks used expletives during their sets. It is an offence that has got dancehall and rap acts like Bounty Killer and Ja Rule in trouble with the Montego Bay police.

(from Jamaica Observer)