Gem Myers and George Nooks Stole the Gem Myers Mothers' Day Show

The Mother’s Day show at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in Kingston confirmed what we all knew about Jamaica's rich musical landscape. While international acts have often been relied upon to draw crowds, local talent took centre stage and stole the spotlight on Sunday (May 12).  

Gem Myers and the seasoned George Nooks captivated the audience with their electrifying performances, while the legendary Fab Five band provided the perfect backdrop for each act, showcasing their enduring musical proficiency. The event showcased the depth and vibrancy of Jamaica’s music, leaving the audience in awe. With these homegrown talents leading the way alongside the headliner, USA’s  Evelyn Champagne King, the show exemplified the enduring legacy and promising future of Jamaica’s music.

Evelyn Champagne King undoubtedly brought her best game, but   Gem Myers had the fair-sized crowd dancing to the tunes of reggae icons Delroy Wilson, Toots, Marcia Griffiths, the Heptones, Sophia George, Millie Small and her original, 'I am a one-man woman'  delivered hit after hit, captivating the audience with her sultry moves and stunning attire that turned heads throughout the venue.

The night wasn't just about Gem Myers, though. George Nooks should consider opening his own church. He is one of those long-lasting singers from yesteryear whose endless energy literally ignites the spirit at any session. He has mastered the art of building the vibes with his renditions of hit songs of yesteryear, ‘Tribal War’, ‘Left with a Broken Heart’, 'Stop Spread Propaganda ‘, and ‘Zion Gate’. Nooks took us through the 60’s, 70’s 80’s and 90’s. Then he took us to church with his gospel medley that had the audience on their feet, jumping, stomping and praising the Almighty. 

Emerging talent Kevoy Clarke impressed us with his smooth vocals and stylish performance. The Irie Sisters, along with Delano McFarlane added to the evening's magic with their soulful renditions and electrifying stage presence.

As the night reached its peak, guest act Evelyn Champagne King, commanded the stage with her timeless hits and infectious energy. Her vigour and vitality were unbelievable as she belted out her hit songs ‘ You Make My Love Come Down’,  'Happy Feelings,’ ‘Shame You’ and the hit of the century Sam Cooke’s original, ‘A Change is Gonna Come’. And who knew that this multi-talented 63-year-old singer played the drums as she gave us a taste of her skills?  She’s been in the business for 47 years but  King showed no signs of slowing down, leaving the audience in awe with her powerhouse vocals and electrifying dancing skills.

Of course, no mention of the evening would be complete without acknowledging the comedic stylings of MC Burgerman, whose antics kept the crowd entertained between sets. 

While his teasing about a surprise performance by Beres Hammond left some disappointed, Burgerman's charisma and humour added an extra layer of excitement to an already unforgettable night.

Gem Myers

Gem Myers

Evelyn Champagne King

Kevoy Clarke

Burgerman

Delano McFarlane

Gem Myers

Irie Sisters

Gem Myers

George Nooks

Delano McFarlane

George Nooks

Contributor

Lois Grant 

Lois Grant, JP, MA, BA (Hons), Dip Mass Comm, Cert. Broadcast Journalism BBC- London, is a powerhouse in communications. Co-founding Innercity Promotions, she transformed dance hall music branding. Grant later founded Corporate Image Communications and Productions, organizing innovative events for top brands. Her influence extends to shaping political landscapes across three Caribbean islands, including her tenure as Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister (2007-2013) in Jamaica. Now retired, she consults for prestigious entities like NBC Sports and as a travel influencer.