Introducing Colin 'Shaka Fame' Bell - Jamaica's longest-serving MC
Published:Saturday | February 1, 2014 | 12:00 AM
Gareth Davis Snr, Gleaner Writer
PORTLAND:
Colin 'Shaka Fame' Bell is on a path to fulfilling his lifelong dream to become the premiere and most-sought-after master of ceremony (MC) for stage shows in Jamaica, having rubbed shoulders with the so-called heavyweights in that field.
Bell, who hails from one of the most depressed communities in Portland, Fruitful Vale, told Rural Xpress that he developed a liking for hosting stage shows after hearing the likes of Barry Gordon, Tommy Cowan, Basil 'Bagga' Brown, and Richie Burgess, who were considered the crème de la crème of MCs.
"I grew up listening to those guys," commented Bell.
He added: "I decided then at age 15, while being around a sound system called Mafia Five, that I wanted to become an MC.
"I first hosted a talent show in 1989, but shortly after, I joined the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). After leaving the army, I started working with an entertainment company, Bees Production, where I got involved with Crystal Springs and Penthouse family fun day. Back then, it was a big event featuring the likes of Buju Banton, Wayne Wonder, and Beres Hammond, and I worked as MC."
Bell recounted that by 1995, he got his first break and real test when he was included as one of the MCs on Reggae Sunsplash, which was held in Dover, St Mary. And that same year, he would grace the stage for the first time on Sting, the premiere reggae show on Earth.
He added: "I got the early segment on Sting in 1995, where I had to call on and introduce approximately 40 artistes. But despite the nervous moments, I handled it professionally. Even today, I have to give thanks to Norbert Bradshaw, who ensured that I got connected with the Sting family - headed by Isaiah Laing. I distinctly remembered introducing Frisco Kid, who later emerged as one of our leading reggae artistes."
From the days of playing sound system in Fruitful Vale to Sting, Bell is undoubtedly the longest-serving MC on Sting, having hosted since 1995. His achievements since have allowed him to emcee most of the major shows across Jamaica, including Saddle to the East, Champion in Action, Reggae Sumfest, and several Mother's Day shows.
Memorable moment
Bells quest thus far has also allowed him to introduce several international artistes, including Freddy Jackson, Percy Sledge, and the Shilites, who performed at Mothers' Day and Father's Day shows in Jamaica.
Bell added: "My most memorable moment was to introduce Buju Banton on stage, who I believe is one of Jamaica's best-performing artistes. I am from a poor family background, but my ambition and determination have allowed me to fulfil my dream. My encouragement to the youths is to work hard towards your goal and to adopt a not-giving-up attitude."