Quickies: Stephenson takes 'Black Gold' to S America

Duane Stephenson has just returned from the first half of a successful tour of South America. This comes after the release of what has been considered his best album to date, Black Gold. The tour, which began in Lima, Peru, on November 11, has so far also gone through countries such as Argentina, Uruguay and Ecuador.

In Argentina, Stephenson performed in Tucuman on November 13, San Juan on November 18, Mendoza on November 19, Neuquen on November 20, and Comodoro on November 21. In Uruguay, he stopped at Montevideo on November 23 and on December 6 he performed in Quito, Ecuador.

Stephenson says the tour has been a new experience for him as he has never performed in South America before, and he is overwhelmed by the response of the people. "It's a wonderful experience. People actually know the songs even though there is a language barrier. I am very happy that I took this opportunity, and while it's a challenge to travel the great distances between cities and countries, it's a sacrifice well worth it for reggae music," he said.

I-Octane gives Portmore 'Different Page'

For the third consecutive year I-Octane will give back to his Portmore community with a fun day and concert sponsored by telecoms giant, Digicel.

Dubbed Different Page (from his hit single of the same name), the free event will have some of the biggest names in reggae and dancehall in performance and also great giveaways from Digicel. Different Page takes place today at the HQ Football Field in Daytona, Greater Portmore.

"This is the third edition and every year it attracts more and more persons," I-Octane explained.

He added that he was quite happy to give back to his community in this way, especially during the festive season.

Stone Love celebrate 38 years

Stone Love Movements, the long-standing sound system, celebrates 38 spectacular years on December 18, in Portmore, St Catherine. Fans will be treated to masterful selections by the Stone Love crew on a night that promises to be filled with excitement and great vibes.

The anniversary celebrations have been held at several different locations over the years, including La Roose, Jollies, Market Place and Mas Camp. The organisers' decision to return to Portmore was partly the result of the nostalgic feel of earlier celebrations in Portmore.

An impressive transformation of the venue is expected, aided by intelligent lighting, and a specially constructed dance floor complete with a platform that will be used by the captivating Magnum girls. The thrills won't end there as special guest artistes and sound systems will make appearances to honour Stone Love Sound System.

Betty Wright, J'can acts perform tomorrow

Grammy Award-winning singer Betty Wright takes centre stage tomorrow at No Pain, No Gain.

"This is going to be a celebration of good music and the Yuletide season," said Fiona Fennell, chief executive officer of Stiletto Concepts, the promoters of the concert. Patrons will be treated to this musical extravaganza at Liguanea Club in New Kgn.

The first 100 persons in general admission will receive a free drink, courtesy of Smirnoff and Baileys. Gates open at 7 p.m.

A star-studded line-up includes Tarrus Riley, Freddie McGregor, Tessanne Chin and Hezron, leading up to Betty Wright's crescendo with her legendary songs - Tonight Is The Night, Clean Up Woman, No Pain No Gain, Thank You For The Many Things You've Done, and Rock On Baby, Rock On.