By Karrie Williams—
FLORENCE HALL, Trelawny:—

Celebrated vocalist, Richie Stephens, lit up the Jamaica Jazz and Blues stage, at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium this evening half-way through Night Two.

The singer came on shortly before 10:00 p.m., and wooed patrons with a slew of hit songs, covering various Reggae artistes and genres.

In a performance that lasted approximately 45 minutes, inclusive of an encore, Stephens paid tribute to the late John Holt, Dennis Brown and Garnet Silk, singing a series of their best known hits.

He further pleased patrons with some of his own classics including Every time You’re There and By Your Side.

Stephens also performed a medley of gospel songs.

But it was his Ska-inspired renditions featuring his ‘Ska-tec’ group of dancers, which brought the house down.

Before leaving the stage Stephens told concert-goers that performing with the group was for him, the highlight of his set.

“What I like most about tonight was that I get a chance to perform with these young people… there’s no point in trying to fight crime and violence in this country without looking out for the young people,” he said.