Jamaican reggae star Capelton promises fans a major show in Nairobi

Reggae music lovers are in for an early Christmas treat when a leading Jamaican star jets into the country for a performance early next month.

Multiple award winning artist Capleton will take to the stage at the Kasarani stadium accompanied by Jah Thunder, the Prophesy Band and Jamaican queen of reggae Queen Ifrica.

Dubbed Jamhuri Reggae Festival, the December 11 event organised by Head Cornerstone Entertainment, will see fans ‘eat’ from the palms of Capleton’s hands as he brings back nostalgia of Roots Reggae.

Speaking from Kingston, Jamaica via phone, a seemingly excited Capelton could not hide his love for Kenya, which he refers to as one of his favourite destinations.

“I cannot wait to set my eyes on the beautiful sights and sounds of Kenya. It is the one thing I can’t always seem to get enough of,” he said.

The reggae star said he has lots of surprises in store for his fans.

“Mine is a different version of music that explores original reggae and new sounds in a contemporary context, making it easier for fans to sit back and enjoy,” he said.

A career well spelt

Fondly referred to as as King Shango, King David, The Fireman and The Prophet, Capelton is credited for being a champion of the Rastafari movement through his songs.

As a teenager, Capelton sneaked out of his home to catch local dance hall acts, eventually leaving home at the age of 18 to work on his career as a dance hall deejay.

In 1989, he got his big international break when he performed in Canada alongside Ninjaman and Flourgon.

When he started his career in the late 1980s, reggae music was dominated with slackness and gun talk in its lyrics. Capelton is credited with changing the message in reggae songs to themes revolving around oppression and love, establishing a place for himself as one of the most sought after dance hall artists.

“I was an active participant in music which has been a big part of me and this enabled me to curve a niche for myself as one of the best to date,” he concluded.

He is expected to churn out some of his best songs, including Tour, Prophet, Cold Blooded Murder, Bumbo Red and Alms House.

The show will be curtain raised by top local reggae acts Wyre, Redsan, Sustane and Gravitti.

Others to perform before the star attraction are Music Vibes, Hertical Spenes, Tunedem Band, MC Philipo, Dohty Family Agugu Family, Deejay Brownskin and Mytal sounds.

Tickets to the music concert are selling at Sh1,000 per person for regulars and Sh4,000 VIP.