The 7th Annual Grace Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival was a success. Despite the errant isolated thunderstorm earlier in the day, no one had their spirits dampened! As per usual, there was the requisite mix of Caribbean culture, music, and, of course, food! To be exact, jerk was the food du jour! And, also, as per usual, the jerk cooking competition was fierce!
Congratulations to Jimmy Jackson who after three attempts finally took hom the title of Atlanta Top Jerk Chef this year!
The stage festivities got underway when New Kingston Band took the stage. New Kingston was followed by Barbee. Barbee took the stage in a catwoman-like jumpsuit and rocked the crowd with her brand of pop-dancehall. Although, she was not on the list of “official” performers she was well received by the attendees.
Following Barbie a bit later on was Errol Moore. After Errol got the crowd going, Tanto Metro & Devonte reminded us that “Everyone Falls in Love”. Next up was Shameik Moore (Errol Moore’s prodigal son — look out for him! He’s the next big ting!) and closing out the show was headline act Half Pint.
The show was running a bit late resulting in Half Pint taking stage around 8:35, just 25 minutes before the “official” closing time. He gave a good performance but he didn’t have sufficient time to really connect with his fans — only time to sing his classics like Mr. Landlord, One Big Family. As I left the venue after closing, Half Pint was still on stage working!
I would be remiss if I did not mention my favorite part of the night! It was when a grandmother from across the pond in England came on stage and Bruk, Bruk, Bruk, Bruk itDown!!!!! As you can tell from the video, Granny put on quite a show!!! All in all it was a great day filled with fun, food and a great stage show.
Kudos to Glenn Simmonds, Errol Moore, and all of the other event organizers/planners and all those persons behind the scenes who worked tirelessly to produce this event without incident – Luv Dat!!!
