Photo by Mediabizto
On Saturday, November 23, Brampton on Stage showcased a vibrant celebration of reggae music with performances by three-time JUNO award winner Kirk Diamond, his band The Movement of Ahryel, and seven-time JUNO nominee Ammoye at the Rose Theatre. This event highlighted the power of reggae, dancehall, soul, and R&B to captivate and unify a diverse audience, embodying Brampton’s commitment to cultural representation.
Photo by Mediabizto
Ammoye opened the night with grace and energy, starting her set with a soulful rendition of Bob Marley’s ‘Wait in Vain’. As the tempo quickened with ‘Exodus’ and Dennis Brown’s ‘Promise Land’, her artistry and connection with her five-piece band shone through. Original tracks like ‘Sorry’, ‘Stop the War’, and ‘Count on Me’ displayed her storytelling prowess and celebrated Canadian reggae’s vibrancy. She closed her set with ‘Free’ and ‘Awakening’, bringing the audience to their feet in an undeniable display of unity and joy.
Photo by Mediabizto
Kirk Diamond then took the stage, receiving a heartfelt citation for his contributions to music and community. Backed by his polished band and talented backup singers, he delivered a dynamic and uplifting performance. From his latest single ‘Deh Yah’ to timeless covers like Bob Marley’s ‘War’ and tributes to Third World and Chronixx, Kirk demonstrated his versatility and passion for reggae. Highlights included his duet with Tiffanie Malvo on ‘Bring It Good’ and the heartwarming performance of his JUNO-winning single ‘Greater’ with students from Balmoral Middle School.
Photo by Mediabizto
This extraordinary night celebrated reggae’s rich heritage and its flourishing future in Canada, proving the genre’s ability to inspire and unite. Brampton on Stage deserves applause for curating an event that not only entertained but also enriched the community’s cultural tapestry.