Three powerful voices – Everton Blender, Queen Ifrica and Duane Stephenson – will share one stage in Port-of-Spain as they participate in a night of conscious vibes titled Liberation: Songs of Freedom.
Hosted by the Emancipation Support Committee (ECS), this year’s edition of the Pan African Concert will take place at the Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah. Port-of-Spain on July 31. The Pan African concert has become an annual presentation, one which seeks to provide a moment when those who commemorate the struggles of the African ancestors can show reverence in song, music and dance. It’s a moment when conscious lyrics can give the listener the energy to move forward, to fight, the live one more day, said a media release from the ECS.
Blender’s encouraging words “lift up yer head and hold it up high, we know that we’ll win the prize,” is an anthem for the downtrodden. “Time gettin harder, still we strivin for better, and we’re not gonna stop till the battle is won,” Blender sings. The song, which was released in 1984, has connected with audiences around the world. Blender’s other cultural anthems, “Ghetto People Song,” “Blend Dem” and “Blow Your Nose,” were hits that served as a foundation for roots-reggae dancehall music.
Queen Ifrica and Duane Stephenson have also left indelible marks with their music.
Queen Ifrica (Ventrice Morgan) is a mother, active community member and prolific reggae singer. Beginning her career in 1995, she has impressed many audiences with her versatility to convey her personal views in song. Although this has evoked a variety of opinions, she continues to be a staple in the reggae music arena with singles such as “Below the Waist,” which looks at sensuality in relationships and the social commentary “Daddy” which looks at the issue of child abuse.
Stephenson seems to have inherited the voice of the late Gregory Isaacs, who was known as the “Cool Runner.” Listening to hits like “Fool for You,” “Ghetto Pain,” “To The Lord,” and the popular “August Town,” Stephenson’s voice can be justifiably described as a youthful taste of Isaacs. Recounting his life-changing experiences in Jamaica, Stephenson has chosen to use his voice as the call to the global community for global hunger eradication, a global initiative driven by the UN World Food Programme.
Celebrations hosted by the ECS have grown considerably over the years, so much so that it is now recognised internationally with visitors from neighbouring Caribbean islands, the American and African continent. This year’s Pan African Concert promises an impressive mix of performers including the golden voice of Mali, Awa Sangho and our very own Mighty Shadow and reggae songstress Kushite.
General admission tickets are $200, special reserve $300 and VIP $500. For more info contact Emancipation House at 628-5008, 753-8921, 753-8789 and 761-1006 or visit Emancipation Support Committee – ESC on FaceBook.
Queen Ifrica impresses audiences with her versatility to convey her personal views in song.
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