FORT LAUDERDALE – The high priest of reggae fusion, international star Maxi Priest, one of the most recognized voices out of Jamaica, is set to bring his brand of music to South Florida for the first annual Reggae Jazz Fusion.
Jazz great Monty Alexander and successful cabaret artiste A.J. Brown are also on the bill for the event, scheduled for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 Southwest 5th Ave. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 on Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 7:00 pm.
Maxi Priest, who was born in England to Jamaican parents, has roots deep in the music of Jamaica, with the foundation of all his songs steeped in reggae, despite their R&B flavor. In fact, it’s Maxi Priest’s combination of heartfelt lyrics and soothing vocals that makes him one of the most successful reggae solo artistes in the world.
With over 10 albums, numerous live performances and several classic hits like his cover of Cat Stevens’ “Wild World” and “House Call” with Shabba Ranks, Maxi Priest has earned a place in the hearts of Jamaican and international fans — a reflection of his global appeal.
The singer took the world by storm in 1988 with his album, “Maxi”, which he recorded in Jamaica with the expertise of legendary musicians Sly Dunbar, Robbie Shakespeare and Willie Lindo. This introduced the world to the voice of Maxi with hits “Some Guys Have All the Luck” and “Wild World” along with some reggae roots tracks — catapulting him into international stardom.
Maxi Priest has thrilled the world with hits like “Close to You,” which made it to number one in 1990 making him one of two British reggae acts to cop the top spot on the American Billboard Chart. It also hit number two on the Hot R&B Singles chart. His duet with iconic American singer Roberta Flack, “Set the Night to Music,” made it to the American Top 10 in 1991 and his collaboration with Shaggy, “That Girl,” peaked at 20. The 2000s saw two more albums “2 the Max” in 2000 and “Refused” in 2007.
Maxi Priest’s ability to command the stage and deliver top class performances is what makes him still very relevant, headlining sold out concerts and numerous festivals, after decades in the business.
This year, in addition to Reggae Jazz Fusion the singer has several dates in May, June and August, including the Bob Marley’s Legend Alive Tour, Reggae 4 Japan and the 15th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival. But you’ll get a chance to hear the beloved singer on May 22 in South Florida.
Tickets are available online at www.browardcenter.org, the Broward Center Box office or by phone at 954-462-0222. A limited number of tickets are on sale at selected Caribbean outlets in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties.
