NEW YORK – The first production of the reggae concert “BLACK AND PROUD” brought a piece of Jamaican culture to Queens, NY on Saturday, February 25, 2023. The concert was inspired “Black and Proud” by Anthony B. track on The World Rebirth Riddim released by Reggae Vibes Music in 2020. Discussions between Anthony B and Reggae Vibes Music CEO Marlon Folkes inevitably led to the use of Reggae Month/Black History Month as the ideal time for the first gig.
Various media and fans showed up to support the artists and take some photos with them at the Meet and Greet event hosted by VP Records at their flagship retail store in Jamaica Queens at 12 noon. The air was buzzing with talk of each artist’s recent activities, from their US and world tours to their latest Grammy win, Kabaka Pyramid. The energy was infectious and you could tell the audience was in for a one-of-a-kind experience that would unfold later that evening at the concert.
Fans at the VP Records store at Meet & Greet with Anthony B. Photo Credit: Dina Williams
Oh what a night!
The gates opened at 10pm and for one night the Amazura Concert Hall turned into a reggae paradise with live performances, island food and nothing but good vibes. The evening began with early juggling by Kulcha Kartel, Mountain Lion Sound, and Massive B (Bobby Konders and Lando Hype) representing HOT97. Irie Jam Radio dubmaster Chris was an energetic master of ceremonies who maintained an elevated atmosphere between performances. The event had an impressive cast. The backers were very well received by the opening act, which was Rufftop Rock I, KenDallaz and Dreama who warmed up the crowd with their catchy lyrics and melodies. The main performers graced the stage shortly after midnight.
Prominent reggae artists such as Perfect Giddimani, Turbulence and Pressure Buss Pipe kept the crowd moving and singing lines from hits like “Hand Cart Boy”, “Love and Affection” and “Name and Number”.
Pyramid Kabak takes the stage
Kabaka Pyramid Photo courtesy of photographer Thomas Bonano.
First time Grammy Award Winner Pyramid Kabaka, which won Best Reggae Album for “The Kalling” in February 2023, was welcomed on stage by reggae veteran Anthony B. Unexpected guest Iba Mar also joined to fuel the epic collaboration on stage. Together, the three entertained their fans with great synergy from the Gennaroots Band and drummer Bonfire Band. Anthony B was in shape with his usual high energy performance, making his way around the stage with his gravity defying moves. The fans were definitely entertained as they swayed and chanted messages of freedom, hope and equality.
Anthony b. Photo courtesy of photographer Thomas Bonano.
Anthony B expressed his gratitude after the event, saying, “Thank you to the fans for their amazing love and support. It’s good to be on this journey together to strive for a better world that we can all be proud of, and that our children and their children can still sing songs about reggae’s roots and cultural music. Let’s say out loud that we are black and proud and all we say is one love for the entire human race on planet Earth.”
Expect Stage 2 in 2024
Despite the low temperatures, those who braved the cold were not disappointed. All artists presented incendiary and stellar performances. Reggae lovers from all over three states, as well as those who flew in from as far away as Florida and countries like Jamaica and Colombia, had a great time. Organizers of Bornfire Music Promotions and Reggae Vibes Promotions are looking forward to second staging of the concerto in 2024.
Watch the video Black and proud concert
Public Relations Manager Roxy Chang (CEO PR agency Roxy Chang), a publicist for the event stated, “This year’s event is undeniably a celebration of reggae culture and the genre’s rich history, and the team is definitely looking forward to continuing this movement and making it the best experience for reggae fans for years to come.”
