Holt, Smith sing 'To Mom With Love'

THE SOOTHING sounds of veteran reggae icon John Holt mesmerised mothers at the Cariblue Hotel in Montego Bay on Sunday at To Mom With Love, culminating a beautiful evening of appreciation to mothers.

From I'd Love You To Want Me to Stealing, the infallible Holt had his audience of young and old rocking to his hits from the 1960s and '70s. In his usual suave manner, the former Paragons lead singer did not waste his 45-minute performance and made sure that his fans knew that Time Is The Master.

Backed by Lloyd Parkes and the We the People band, the 63-year-old Holt appeared more vibrant and energetic than ever, as he danced and sang crowd favourites while pausing at intervals to speak to eager patrons.

"What would you like me to sing for you?" Holt asked with a smile. As shouts came for Alibaba, I'll Take A Melody and I'll Never Fall In Love Again, he smiled, sipped some water and sang each request flawlessly.

SHEER PERFECTION

Holt was not the only shining star of the evening, as Karen Smith was brilliant as she performed her songs and renditions with sheer perfection. Glowing in an elegant ocean-blue dress, Smith's voice caressed each song and had patrons yearning for more. After leaving the stage, an encore was requested and she returned for a rendition of an Aretha Franklin song before making her final exit.

Early acts, such as Tally Zapp and Phoenix, engaged patrons in a vibrant fusion of reggae and rhythm and blues before twins Justin and Jordan Salmon performed a tribute to their mother.

Dream Girls Promotions organised the inaugural staging of To Mom With Love, which also featured a fashion show of the Dream Girls line of apparels, particularly lingerie and swimwear, and comedian Dwight Samuels, who had the audience in stitches.

- Sheena Gayle

Backed by Lloyd Parkes and the We the People band, the 63-year-old Holt appeared more vibrant and energetic than ever, as he danced and sang crowd favourites while pausing at intervals to speak to eager patrons.