Last Tuesday, Kes the Band chronicled their 4th year of its Tuesday on the Rocks event. One of the most highly anticipated events during the Carnival week, the O2 Park saw scores of patrons ready to support Kes the band’s ‘Journey through the Music”. Ebuzztt was there for the action and recaps some of the highlights of the signature event.  

• Well organized.

Kees was amazing as usual at Tuesday on the Rocks 2017.
PHOTO CREDIT: Teeography.

Not that its any surprise but Kes had their Ts crossed this year. Notwithstanding a fairly thick crowd, there were no unnecessarily long lines to enter, secured parking was made available at the Army base and shuttles for those who didn’t want to strut the short distance to the venue. There was one main entrance irrespective of the ticket you were holding so there was no confusion as to where to line up. Access to food and drinks were within reach, photo booths to document your attendance, a make-up booth was accessible for a nice price if you were into that kind of thing and bathroom facilities were clean and outfitted with air conditioning. The show started after 8pm with Farmer Nappy and De Red Boyz kicking things off but Kes The Band took full flight at 10pm.

• Girls Girls Girls!

The ladies love ’em some Kees! They came out in their numbers last Tuesday. Some wore heels, some wore flats, some donned shorts and others flowy skirts and rompers but no one was afraid to wine down low or scream to the top of their lungs when the man of the moment graced the stage. In between the large girl groups that attended, it appeared to be well suited for lovers as well as many couples were spotted.

• Bajan Invasion

Bajan Soca superstars Edwin Yearwood, Alison Hinds and Rupee were all incredible. They not only made Barbados proud but the entire Caribbean with their raw talent and powerful stage presence delivering hit after hit! Alison, the epitome of sexual class, had all eyes on her as she delivered some of her popular tracks. Rupee maintained his charm and easily captivated the crowd with his old hits and 2016/2017 hits ‘Tipsy’ and “I’ll be okay”. The trio professed their love for Trinidad and Tobago countlessly during their performances, calling it their second home, and it’s safe to say by the crowd’s reception, the feeling was mutual!

• Vice Versa Love from Barrington Levy, Kes and patrons.

Shifting gears a bit was the introduction of a legend to the Kes The Band stage. Jamaican reggae hit maker, Barrington Levy was part and parcel of the show and based on what we witnessed, it’s safe to say, he’s like fine wine, getting better with age. The reggae superstar had everyone singing word for word as he walked on to the stage casually dressed, with a portable microphone in tow giving him the freedom to easily engage the crowd and move about the stage. Singing mostly acapella, supported by the vocals of the thousands gathered, Levy sang some of his favourite hits like “Too Experienced”, “Here I Come”, “Vice Versa Love”, “Everybody Must Work” and “Black Roses”! Maintaining his presence and showcasing his versatility with different genres of music, Kes also joined Mr. Levy on stage for some collaborations admonishing how much of an inspiration Levy had on him musically growing up. Undoubtedly, Barrington Levy was definitely one of the biggest highlights of the night and further exciting fans announcing that his new album would be dropping soon.

• Music was the mission

Barrington Levy is getting better with age.
PHOTO CREDIT: Teeography.

The event was not restricted to one genre of music as Kees also performed some of his own island pop and reggae material. He definitely seemed humbled by his fans’ support and constantly maintained engagement with the patrons, even those on top in the VIP area. He echoed the sentiments of his fellow compadre in the business, Machel Montano and others, to spread and promote love. Kees had his uncut moments, creating intimate moments with his fans singing some of his older recordings like ‘Fighter”. 

• An Unexpected Guest

Ravi B can mash up any fete whether or not he’s scheduled to be there. To the surprise of many, Ravi B was introduced and immediately poured his energy over the crowd. They lapped it all up. The Chutney Soca Monarch Champ and fellow Digicel endorsee to Kees, was not scheduled to performed but maintained that he had to come out and support his brother. MX Prime & The Ultimate Rejects were exceptional as usual and veteran Ronnie McIntosh and Voice were well received by the patrons as well. With Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica well represented, the Caribbean connection was strongly felt. Team Kes executed well because at the end, it’s safe to say that their objective ‘Mission Through Music’ was realized.

WRITER: @Candiebuzz on Instagram.