Prisoners stepped out of the confines
of their cells at the General Penitentiary on Thursday May 2, 2013 for a special
concert. The Swiss Rehabilitation Organization, Art of Living
Foundation and the Department of Correctional Services, spearheaded a
Non-Violence Campaign where Shaggy was invited to perform at the prison
on behalf of the campaign and used the opportunity to empower
inmates.
Arriving at 2pm, band in tow, International Dancehall Superstar
Shaggy is escorted inside as the intimidating metal gates closed behind
him. Many
inmates were surprised to see the Grammy award - wining artiste among them and
he was not alone. Shaggy had invited several other industry heavyweights
with him. Among them were the infamous Rhythm Twins, Sly and
Robbie.
The live show kicked
off with performances from inmates David Williams, Howard David and Serrano
Walker, and they failed to disappoint. The talented Walker delivered an original
piece titled "This One Is For The Children", which garnered applause from
both inmates and visitors alike. Following the comedic stint
of Ity and Fancy Cat, it was time for the man of the hour,
Shaggy, to take to the stage and he was greeted with deafening screams
from the audience.
Backed by artistes
Jimmy Cozier, Aisha Davis and Tony Gold, Shaggy
delivered songs from his yet to be released album, a collaboration with Sly
Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare. The tracks though unknown struck a
nerve among his audience who hung on every lyric and beat. He then dove into his
popular tracks, "Boombastic," "Church Heathen," "It Wasn't
Me," and "Strength of a Woman" which were all well
received.
The eager and excited
audience hung on to his every word enjoying every bit of his
performance.
Shaggy then opened the
stage up for his friends and fellow collaborators. When the prolific duo of
Sly and Robbie struck up their infamous "Taxi" and
"Mission Impossible" rhythms, the intensity of the performance was once
again kicked into high gear. Now they could place the faces behind such epic and
familiar rhythms.
The climax of the set
came when Shaggy joined Sly and Robbie for a rendition of
Black Uhuru's "General Penitentiary." All sang in unison now and
the overall energy inside the gated penitentiary was positive and dare to say,
joyful.
Known for his philanthropy,
Shaggy
continues to demonstrate commitment and dedication to issues affecting Jamaica
and abroad.
*Ctsy of Ranch
Entertainment
