GERMAN artist Gentleman, who is currently on his first major North and South America tour, stopped in New York City last week to launch his new VP records album, Diversity at the trendy Le Poisson Rouge in Manhattan.

Backed by his evolution band, he thrilled the fans with choice cuts from Diversity including Good Old Days (currently the No.1 song on The New York Reggae Chart), Different Places, Jah Inna Yuh Life, Changes and his 2005 hit Intoxication – which drew the first encore of the night!

Radio host Chris Dubb Master (left) and Irwine Clare (right) presenting singer Richie Stephens (second left) and Gentleman with awards for Live Your Life which was voted ‘2011 Song of the Year’. (Photo: Contributed)

“I am extremely pleased with the large turn out and the positive reception at this my first performance in NY,” Gentleman said moments after leaving the stage. “New York reggae fans have fully embraced my music and for this I am thankful.”

Gentleman, the son of a Lutheran pastor, was drawn to reggae in his youth.

Diversity is his sixth album and has sold strongly throughout Europe.

He has collaborated with diverse reggae artists including Barrington Levy and Richie Stephens with whom he recorded his latest singles Live Your Life (which topped The NY Reggae Chart for 2 weeks) and Warrior.

Stephens delivered a spirited, energetic performance, built around his hit singles Winner and Warrior.

Just before the close, radio host Chris The Dubb Master of Irie Jam Radio, and Irwine Clare, presented Gentleman and Stephens with crystal plaques for their single Live You Life which was voted 2011 song of the year by Irie Jam listeners.