Grammy winner Shaggy to be honored in Miami April 9 – American Friends of Jamaica(AFJ) Soiree
MIAMI – The American Friends of Jamaica(AFJ) confirm that the internationally renowned Jolly Boys will perform at its 7th Annual Peacock Soiree on Saturday, April 9, 2011 in Miami.
Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. has also signed on to sponsor the evening. The gala honors diamond-selling performer Orville “Shaggy” Burrell as the 2011 International Humanitarian for his philanthropic role in assisting the Bustamante Hospital for Children in Kingston, Jamaica.
The Peacock Soiree will be held at Miami’s Jungle Island, a lush, tropical setting with a festive
atmosphere that sets the tone for a night of cocktails, dinner and performances. Another highlight of the evening is an anticipated silent and live auction. The proceeds of the Peacock Soiree create significant social impact by raising important funds distributed to Jamaican charities in education, healthcare and economic development.
The Jolly Boys will perform their brand of lively modern Mento music for Soiree attendees after dinner. Hailing from Port Antonio, Jamaica, the Jolly Boys have entertained crowds around the world and were once the house band for the Rat Back in Port Antonio during the 1950’s and 60’s. Introducing a new sound and direction, The Jolly Boy’s new album Great Expectation includes scratchy covers of hits from Amy Winehouse, New Order and Johnny Cash, among others. The band will perform exclusive tracks from the new album, which drops in the US on May 3.
Mento was the music of the Jamaican dancehalls before ska, rocksteady and reggae came along. A people’s music typically played in the countryside on acoustic – often homemade – instruments, it dates to the late 19th century. Its lyrics often dealt with taboo topics and addressed the social issues of the day. Although often confused with calypso, Mento has a rawness and rhythmic feel that is uniquely Jamaican.
Shaggy has always embraced the premise that “to whom much is given, much is required.” What began as donations of medical equipment and visits to the Bustamante Hospital For Children to distribute gifts during the holidays, paint rooms, and donate beds – gave birth to the Shaggy Foundation. He developed the organization in 2008, and recruited business associates, fellow recording artists and sponsors to assist in hosting an annual charity event with proceeds going directly to the hospital to help defray the cost of medical equipment.
For event tickets or details contact 212-265-2550, email [email protected] or visit www.theafj.org
