Experience the Magic of Jazz & Arts
By Reginald Andrew
This year’s grand opening of the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival was nothing short of spectacular, featuring a dynamic line-up of local artists, including an unforgettable Saint Lucian ‘Tribute to Kaiso Legends’.
With an estimated 11,000 patrons in attendance, this event has set a new benchmark for cultural festivities in Saint Lucia. On the magical night of the festival’s 2026 launch, attendees were treated to an immersive experience that brought together generations through the power of music.
The eclectic line-up catered to fans of all ages, inviting everyone to prance and dance to their favourite grooves. One of the festival’s standout performances was by Jamaican Reggae Icon Capleton, whose fiery and conscious vibes captivated the crowd.
Asa Bantan, the ‘Bouyon King’ from Dominica, brought the night to an electrifying close alongside a stellar lineup of dancehall and country-western artists.
The evening also featured exceptional Country and Western performances led by local favourite LM Stone and his band, providing musical backing for local star Shervon Sealy and American crooner Amber Digby.
Herb Black led the enthralling Kaiso Legends segment, showcasing beloved performers such as Robbie, Messenger, the father-son duo Pep and Dezral, Papa Vader, Lady Lynn and others. The show-stopping Ashanti closed the session with a medley of their greatest hits, leaving the audience in awe.
Even amidst the glitz and glamour, Prime Minister and MP for Castries East Philip J. Pierre and Minister for Tourism and Creative Arts Dr. Ernest Hilaire addressed the crowd, wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable experience throughout the festival.
Dancehall stars Valiant and D’Yani electrified the younger fans with their latest hits, while local DJs kept the energy high during intermissions.
As the night progressed, the “Fiery King” Capleton set the stage ablaze with his iconic songs, paired with inspirational messages and stunning acapella renditions that showcased his remarkable vocal talent.
Capleton, born Clifton George Bailey III on April 13, 1967, in Islington, St. Mary Parish, Jamaica, is a renowned reggae and dancehall artist. Known by aliases such as King Shango, King David, The Fireman, and The Prophet, he played a pivotal role in revitalizing dancehall by reconnecting it with traditional reggae roots and Rastafarian spirituality.
His music often carries deep religious and political messages, reflecting his commitment to conscious lyrics and cultural authenticity. Capleton’s distinctive voice and fiery stage presence have earned him a lasting legacy in Jamaican music.
In the early ’90s, Capleton’s transition to Rastafarianism profoundly influenced his music. This transformation is evident in his ground breaking 1995 Def Jam release, Prophecy, which featured successful hip-hop crossovers like “Tour” and “Wings in the Morning.” As he honed his craft, he adeptly refocused on the Jamaican audience, seamlessly blending roots reggae with romantic themes in celebrated albums such as More Fire and Still Blazin’. The latter earned him a Grammy nomination in 2002, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Capleton’s influence extends beyond his own music. Collaborating with renowned artists like Sizzla and Stephen Marley, he continues to inspire countless musicians worldwide, with his work even sampled by international stars like Kanye West. His status as a pivotal figure in reggae was solidified when he received recognition from the Jamaica Industry Association in 2019, further testament to his enduring legacy.
At his live performances, like on Thursday evening, audiences revel in the upbeat tempo and vibrant energy that Capleton brings to the stage.
Fans join in, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration, a hallmark of his heartfelt presentations. Capleton’s artistry, passion, and compassion make him not just a musician but a cultural icon.
Asa Bantan, a Grand Bay native, brought his signature Bouyon flair to the stage, keeping the jazz groove sizzling until the early hours of Labour Day. His music, a vibrant blend of traditional Caribbean sounds and modern beats, encapsulates the heart of Dominica’s rich cultural tapestry.
Pundits and entertainment experts are raving about the festival opener, confirming that this extraordinary event did not just meet expectations but soared beyond them.
Dr. Hilaire aptly summed up the experience in an online post: “These are the experiences the Festival is meant to provide. I am truly delighted by the outcome and hope it was as pleasant for you as it was for me. Welcome to the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2026!”
