Paving the way for 'Live Music' in rural Jamaica

Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

The newly formed Live Music from the Hills concert is aiming at creating an avenue for live music in rural areas. Organised by House of Diggy, which is headed by singer, lawyer, and artiste manager Lorna Bennett, Live Music from the Hills is being staged at Luana, in the hills of St Elizabeth.

The first edition of the concert is set for November 26 and will feature Bennett's son, rising reggae star, Protoje, and his Indiggnation band, as well as upcoming singer Jah 9. It will also feature Bennett herself as a guest performer.

Speaking with The Gleaner recently, Bennett explained that live musicians have to start making their own stages from which to perform and spread their music. She said: "The fact is that we have to create opportunities for ourselves as artistes. For Protoje, he has been touring abroad but hasn't got that many chances to perform locally with his band Indiggnation. So this show is creating an opportunity for him and his band. Live music is prevalent in Kingston, but that's not the case with the rural areas."

According to Bennett, she plans to stage Live Music from the Hills on a quarterly basis, but found it fitting to start off the series in St Elizabeth, from where Protoje hails. She described the concert as being a family event and one that would see top-notch production and performances. "I must say, we've really gotten a lot of support from our sponsors in St Elizabeth, who have really gotten behind Protoje and the show," she said.

Bennett is known for songs such as Breakfast in Bed and Chapel of Love. She said that other musicians would be approached for other stagings. While she and her son Protoje have performed together before, patrons of Live Music from the Hills might be seeing the two sharing the spotlight once again.

She added: "The quality of the show will be great, the response so far has been great. We've already started selling pre-sold tickets. It's looking to be a really nice vibe, and for those who haven't seen Protoje perform with his Indiggnation band, well, they are in for a treat."