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Startime Returns...Looking
even better! Jamaica's
longest-running concert series (Heineken Startime for 17
years), the show which go down in Jamaica's musical history
as the catalyst for the resurgence of our pop music of the
50's, 60's 70's and 80's and the rebirth of the careers of
the our musical pioneers, is all set to hot the spotlight
once more.
Significantly, Startime will have a completely new look, as
its 17-year sponsorship associated with Heineken has ended;
but the popular show, always having had strong corporate
support will definitely not be short of sponsors as it
begins year #18. The entertainment scene is buzzing with
talk that a major media sponsor is finalizing arrangements
which could see both parties getting unprecedented exposure
as well as forging a unique entertainment partnership.
Startime's list of sponsors
include CVM TV TV, Kool 97FM, City of Kingston Credit Union,
The Gleaner Company, XNews, Irie FM, Christar Villas Hotel,
Kosmo Car Rental, Electrotech Productions, Island Pride
Soup, Dennis Buddo and Interlinc Communications hosts of the
MKB/Startime website (www.startime.com.jm).
New sponsors on board include Jamaica Beverages who recently
acquired Cool Runnings Bottled Water, Starlight Productions
and King Alarm with tight security by Marksman.
The show has attracted attention
from reggae lovers worldwide due to its longevity,
high-quality production, and its trail-blazing commitment to
the preservation of Jamaica's musical heritage - and
performed 17 shows in Europe in 2005 -has been off the scene
since its December staging last year: and promoter/producer
MKB has recovered from a rain-hit 2005 season which caused
delays and postponements resulting in major financial
losses. Determined to
keep this great event going due to constant pressure from
Startime fans, MKB's Michael Barnett and Keith Brown have
carried out serious research and re-assessment, expanded the
production team and are now ready for the return of the show
Saturday, November 11 at the Mas Camp in New Kingston.
To mark the highly anticipated
event, eight of Jamaica's legendary acts have been assembled
for what will be a show of extraordinary proportions.
"The Magnificent Eight" who will all be appearing on any
stage together for the first time, is a veritable who's who
of Jamaica's musicology and will provide an unforgettable
musical feast; and MKB will be expanding the Mas Camp in
anticipation of the huge crowd expected to welcome back
Jamaica's favorite show.
Lined up for this classic event
are the king of rocksteady Alton Ellis, one thousand volts
of John Holt, mr rocksteady Ken Boothe, Leroy Sibbles
dynamic showman and former leader of the legendary Heptones,
Gregory Isaacs king of ska Derrick Morgan, man of the moment
George Nooks, 80's 90's deejay giant Admiral Bailey with
Lloyd Parks and We the People and introducing Vibes Band who
will open the show at 8:00 and play to 9:00pm Most of these
great artists are Startime regulars, but having them come
together for one massive show is a novel move which not only
will excite the fans but will be an unsurpassed celebration
of Jamaican music. |
