Deniece Williams has had an enduring fan base in Jamaica since the late 1970s when she recorded hit duets with Johnny Mathis. Fitting then, that ‘Niecy’ is looking to end her career there.
The singer is scheduled to make her swan song on Mother’s Day, May 14, on Red Rose For Gregory, at Liguanea Golf & Country Club in Kingston.
It will be her second appearance on the popular show which was previously held on Valentine’s Day. Williams performed on the 2020 edition, the last time Red Rose For Gregory was held as promoters were forced to cancel the last two years due to Covid-19.
June Isaacs, widow of singer Gregory Isaacs in whose memory the show is held, is overjoyed that Williams agreed to make a second appearance. “I’m more than happy, the audience loved her the last time and there have been requests to have her back. She’s a professional, a perfectionist and a proper singer/songwriter,” she said.
Interestingly, Williams and Gregory Isaacs once had the same manager — Don Taylor, famous for managing Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff.
Red Rose For Gregory was first held in 2017 to honor the legacy of the lovers rock singer who died in October, 2010 at age 59. It has attracted a number of top acts including Sanchez, Freddie McGregor, Atlantic Starr, The Manhattans, Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle. The Manhattans return this year for a second run, along with Etana.
Deniece Williams first endeared herself to Jamaicans in 1978 with Too Much, Too Little, Too Late, a monster hit with Mathis. She had other hits in Jamaica with Silly, It’s Gonna Take A Miracle, Let’s Hear it For The Boy and God is Amazing. Like previous stagings, part proceeds from Red Rose For Gregory will go to a local charity.
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