Ebony, L.U.S.T. join Chi-Lites for Montego Bay run

When the legendary Chi-Lites take the stage for 'An Evening of Elegance' on May 14 at the Seawind Beach Club in Montego Bay, their job will be made easier by the presence of Montego Bay's dynamic vocal trio Ebony who, along with the all-male singing group L.U.S.T. will open the show.

Ebony, which began as a group in the early 1980s with Claudette Miller, Connie Edwards and Barbara Pinnock, has over the years thrilled audiences as opening act for many superstars who have graced the shores of Jamaica. These include Ben E. King, Jeffery Osbourne, Gladys Knight, Ray Goodman and Brown, The Manhattans and Regina Bell, among others.

This well-sought-after musical trio made their name as cabaret artistes throughout the length and breadth of Jamaica and have brought audiences to their feet whenever they perform, belting out crowd favourites with formidably mellifluous vocal range and superb harmony.

In fact, their fans not only enjoy their melodious voices, but also delighted in the creativity of the costumes showcased by the fashion divas whenever they hit the stage.

They were often compared to the Pointer Sisters, En Vogue and I-Threes and were referred to as the singing sensation of Montego Bay.

new addition

The group, which took a break and is now back on the scene, has now been joined by Marsha Scott-Hinds who was once a member of the popular all-girl band Girls Town and toured with the legendary Marcia Griffiths, The Wailers and Buju Banton.

Marsha brings to Ebony a youthful energy, a dynamic personality which shines on and off the stage and, of course, an angelic voice that merges perfectly with that of Ebony.

The show, called 'An Evening of Elegance' and presented by Dream Castle Villa in association with Wi Deh Yah Productions, will feature the legendary soul/R&B performing artistes, the incomparable Chi-Lites.

The present-day Chi-Lites line-up includes original member Marshall Thompson (leader of the group), Frank Reed (lead vocals), Fred Simon (tenor and bass) from The Lost Generation, and Tara Thompson (background vocals). They were inducted into The R&B Hall Of Fame in 2000 and into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2005.

In recent years, the Chi-Lites have been touring the United States and Europe to rave reviews in the media. Member of the Production team, Sydney Reid, said, "The Montego Bay show will be an awesome affair and patrons can expect to hear all their favourite hits that made Chi-Lites a household name in Jamaica."