Most people believe that when it’s nice, you do it twice. To that end, Foreday Mornin’ Entertainment will present Love Yuh Own II—The Concert Experience on May 31 at the Daaga Auditorium, UWI, St Augustine from 8 pm. A release from the organisers said the headline act is five-time national calypso monarch Leroy “Black Stalin” Calliste. Black Stalin will be accompanied by guitarist Theron Shaw and his band, TS Project.
When Love Yuh Own…Calypso with a twist of jazz was first presented just after Carnival this year, patrons were thrilled by Black Stalin’s performance. A veteran with approximately 50 years in the calypso business, he waxed warmly with his audience that evening, almost in “poet mode” at times, as one reviewer described it. Another patron summed up his offering as “refreshingly different”, after listening to the popular bard deliver his hits in more of a Caribbean jazz styling—re-interpreted and re-harmonised. It was down to Shaw, the production’s music director who is known for his progressive arranging skills, that very little of the music’s original flavour was lost, resulting in an overwhelmingly encouraging response.
Sharing the stage with Black Stalin will be Vaughnette Bigford, fresh from successful jazz performances in Tobago and Point Fortin. In recent years, the La Brea born singer has impressed audiences with her rich, earthy vocals, her style, finesse and engaging onstage personality. Also making a guest appearance is pan player Nigel Supersad. The former Tropical Angel Harps double seconds player will join the TS Project musicians: Rodney Alexander (bass) James Fenton (percussion), Jill-Ann Walters (keys) and Khalen Alexander (drums). Rounding off the slate of performers will be a very special guest performer whose identity will be revealed only on the night of the concert. The special guest—a singer—is renowned for several timeless hits and will not disappoint come May 31.
The producers said they have spared no effort to create a memorable experience for everyone who attends Love Yuh Own II. They promise an all-inclusive evening of entertainment, with refreshments as part of the cost of admission. Since 2010 Foreday Mornin’ has been producing shows with the aim of putting the spotlight on T&T and Caribbean music icons. Strong in the belief that there is much to be explored in our own music, the group attempts to provide a regular platform for these artistic expressions, which ultimately celebrate us all as a people.