GRACE JAMAICAN JERK FESTIVAL NY

July 31, 2022

The 10^th annual Grace Jamaica Jerk Festival as a display of cultural presentation. Over 16,000 fans gathered in the Roy Wilkins Park in Queens to enjoy the festive attraction. Patrons of all ages were treated to culinary showcase, food, kids’ zone and musical entertainment on the main stage. The event attracts the like of politicians like Mayor Eric Adams, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and other delegates. While children enjoyed rides and other fun filled activities, the adults were thrilled by the musical presence of the lineup of artists and special guests.

The excitement started when Platinum Kids started rocking the crowd to the beats of Jamaica’s top hits in the celebration of our 60^th independence anniversary. Cristale and Nigy Boy took advantage of the opportunity and represented well. Nadine Sutherland proved that she is still a crowd favorite as she belted out some of her signature tracks. Laalee was probably the most energetic as he introduced many to his signature dances “dirt bounce” and “leggo di bird”. Things got extra spectacular when veteran Spragga Benz joined the stage; the patrons were left in a frenzy as Laalee asked Spragga to join him doing the “bird” dance.  The young dancehall sensation gave the crowd their monies worth. Not to be outdone, Lila Ike hit the stage and commanded the crowd to sing along to her signature hits. I’ve been telling people that she’s the one to watch and is equipped with all the tools to carry the genre forward. The beautiful and talented songbird captured the audience with her unique voice and have them begging for more. Protoje followed and proved why he is a lyrical don when it comes to conscious lyrics. The bands were all on target and never missed a beat. After several announcements, Metro Media general “Sky Juice” gave the audience an unforgettable juggling and dancing performance. The veteran selector of more than 40 years expressed his thanks to GOD for saving him after a stroke. He exited with roars of applauses as the crowd awaits the showdown with Christoper Martin and Romain Virgo. The segment was called “Singers in action” and neither disappointed the audience. Romain started the mission and have the ladies screaming uncontrollably. Chris Martin followed and maintained the thrill of keeping the females wanting for more. The final segment was a dual performance as the crooners went tune for tune with legendary classics. The audience grew hungrier for more as time ran out.

As producers, both VP Records and the Jerk Festival group were excited about the extraordinary performances of the incident free extravaganza. The six hour event was filled with vendors of all type and sponsors who provided special treats for all in attendance. It was truly an overall success in all aspects for one of the biggest food festival in North America. People are anxiously awaiting the return in 2023.