SHABBA Ranks came, saw and conquered International Night I of Reggae Sumfest at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex in Montego Bay on Friday.
The Grammy-winning deejay made up for his 10-year absence from the local stage with a super-charged, hour-long set, reminding fans why he is regarded as one of dancehall's finest.
  Shabba Ranks |
Charging on stage, he got the crowd fired-up with Winey Winey and X-Rated. Things got hotter when he did Mr Loverman as frenzied fans reached out to get a feel of their hero.
Shabba turned it up a notch when he invited singer Cherine Anderson on stage to perform Champion Lover and Twice My Age, two of his biggest hits.
Their sexually suggestive byplay drew gasps from some patrons but it just added to the excitement.
Shabba was honoured for his contribution to reggae and dancehall music by Summerfest Productions, promoters of Sumfest.
After thanking the organisers, he called his wife Michelle on stage to share in the moment.
"She is the reason for my peace of mind and tranquility. She mek mi look so good. Come to mi, baby" he said, as she joined him on stage.
Preceding Shabba's show-stopping performance was American singer Trey Songz. While he had a lot of the women screaming to songs such as Love Faces, Dive In, and We Can't Be Friends, he did not live up to his hyped billing.
The 'Jamaica 50' segment saw the 'greats' taking the stage and succeeded, with each act delivering enjoyable 10-minute sets.
Derrick Harriott, U-Roy, Leroy Sibbles, Leroy Smart, John Holt, the Mighty Diamonds, Pinchers and Yellow Man ensured there was never a dull moment.
Earlier, there were noteworthy performances from the Bonafide band, and emerging singer Nature, who had no problem connecting with his hometown.
It was all ladies after that, led by a scintillating performance from Tessanne Chin and strong showings from Sophia Brown and 14-year-old Bahamian artiste Angelique Sabrina. Tarrus Riley was also a hit.
Another highlight was the exciting 'Sumfest 20' fireworks which transformed the venue with a kaleidoscope of colours.
Also honoured was Irie FM disc jockey Elise Kelly, who was recognised for her contribution to Jamaican music and for being MC at Sumfest for 19 years.
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