The Pure Jazz: Ladies in Concert segment of this year’s Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival delivered an unforgettable night for both performers and patrons, showcasing an extraordinary talent with Saint Lucian heritage among its three stage performers.
With her Saint Lucian roots, UK-based artiste Olympia Vitalis delivered a powerful presentation that radiated determination and confidence, energizing the audience.
Her performance featured the standout lyrics: “I can’t stop …I’m not giving it up, because I’ve to be free,” delivered with a clarity and emotional depth that captivated all present. Accompanied by a talented three-piece band on keyboards, drums, and bass, Olympia showcased her sophisticated sound and kept the audience engaged throughout her set.
A UWD publication aptly noted that “Olympia Vitalis has a vitality to her sound, a clarity to her voice, and a real commitment to a sincere soul sound that endures beyond her latest releases.”
Influenced by numerous women in jazz, gospel, and soul, Olympia has established herself as a rising star in the music scene.
Hailing from West London, her accolades include a performance at the London Jazz Festival in 2023 and recognition as a recipient of the Women in Jazz fund. With support from BBC Introducing, Spotify playlisting, and a feature on Mahalia Presents, Olympia is on an exciting path through the UD Incubator Programme.
She concluded her performance by proudly acknowledging her ‘Lucian’ roots, sharing that her parents hail from the Anse La Raye community.
Zamani Folade, opened the set, exuding elegance in a stunning pink skirt and high-heeled boots, elevating the performances with her timeless presence.
Recognized for her grace and golden vocals, Zamani stirred the audience with her messages about pursuing dreams and embracing the future. Her poignant lyrics reflected her life experiences, including a personal moment of solitude: “I write on my walls when I’m alone. I don’t go outside, I stay at home.”
The headliner, Jazzmeia Horn, commanded the stage with an electrifying energy that was impossible to ignore. Opening her set with “Celebrating Messages” from her 2024 album, she dazzled the audience with her impeccable high notes and rich, soulful beats.
Jazzmeia, originally from Dallas and now residing in the Bronx with her two young daughters, possesses a unique ability to connect with her audience, reminiscing on cherished memories and life lessons.
Dedicated to her late grandfather, her selection ‘Happy Living’ resonated deeply, as she reminded everyone, “Nurture your people …don’t throw them away.”
With an assertive challenge to her audience, Jazzmeia stated, “I challenge you to travel to the unknown,” uplifting the atmosphere and inspiring all.
She elevated her performance further, expressing gratitude: “Bless the Most High in the morning… Bless the Most High in the night,” and all the time for his love is boundless.
The Pure Jazz: Ladies in Concert session exceeded expectations and vividly showcased the hype and power of female vocal talent in motion.
By Reginald Andrew