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Sunday, September 8, 2019

Kirk Diamond and Hawkeye Shine at Summer Soulsa!


JUNO Award winning Reggae star Kirk Diamond as well as Dancehall veteran and performing artist Hawkeye shine at the 2019 staging of Summer Soulsa held in New Brunswick, Canada.  


Held this past weekend at Fredericton’s Officer Square, Kirk Diamond, backed by The Movement of Ahryel, brought authentic Reggae vibes to fans of the genre.  Covers of Bob Marley’s classics such as “Turn Your Lights Down Low” and “Wait in Vain” were included in the spirited performance, as well as a cover of popular Rock n’ Roll group, The Outfields, and their song “Your Love” which received the Kirk Diamond treatment.  “Fans were amazed that Rock can be turned into Reggae” said Kirk reflecting on his performance.  “Music is universal and can be interpreted in other genres which is what helps bring all walks of life together.”

The Movement of Ahryel added to the performance with Nicole and Nate singing songs from the neo-soul genre, and band members performing solos.  The audience was impressed by Joseph aka Stretch on the guitar whose rock solo had the crowd wanting more, Corden’s tickle of the ‘ivories’ earned an ovation, Joseph Warrior playing bass became so sweet, he had to play front and center alongside Kirk while adding a Gospel tune in the mix, and Denver, the groups Drummer confirmed what onlookers quickly figured out – The Movement of Aryhel is an above average band.  Musically, the audience experienced why Kirk and his band are rated as being one of the best top live performers in the Reggae genre, in Canada.  Performing “Greater,” the song for which Kirk earned a 2018 JUNO for Best Reggae Recording, heard fans singing the chorus as if they’ve known the song for years!

In addition to covers, Kirk performed his own material including his JUNO award winning song “Greater” which heard the crowd singing in unison.  One fan reacted to the positive vibes of the music by saying “we don’t get shows like this down here very often and we want more!”  Not only did Kirk sing, he interacted with fans by calling them onstage for a dance session.

Dancehall artist Hawkeye closed the show with an energetic delivery of his hit records.  Corralling fans musically, the veteran entertained with hit songs “Bad Long Time,” “Go Rachel,” and “Money Makin’ Guy.”  Acknowledging that fans may not be familiar with the music, Hawkeye said “our job is to make sure you get the proper introduction to Reggae and Dancehall.  Welcome to your first class!”

Fans Melissa and Terry were visibly thrilled with the music, especially when Hawkeye left the stage and performed in the middle of the crowd.  After his performance the two said “we are going to buy all of Hawkeye’s songs so when he comes back, we can singalong word-for-word!” 

Proving true to his reputation of leaving a memorable impression, Hawkeye made sure to teach attendees the punchlines to his songs.  By the end of his hour-long set, fans could still be heard singing ‘who ah-ah,’ ‘bubble and wine’ as well as ‘e-yah, e-yah oh!’  Backstage, Hawkeye was greeted by handshakes and hugs and a few thank-you’s for bringing a great show to the eastern part of Canada.

Hawkeye is one of Dancehall’s most prolific artistes boasting innate musical skills, witty lyrics, charisma, and of course, style!  The DJ, born Christopher Smith has released multiple Dancehall hit smashes including “Who Ah Ah,” “Yuh Nuh Beg,” and “Bubble & Wine.” His numerous underground hits and loyal fan base has earned him a permanent place in Dancehall music’s ever-growing fraternity and fans new to the genre.


About Summer Soulsa:

Summer Soulsa is a carnival and live performance event celebrating Caribbean culture in Fredericton, New Brunswick.  Produced by Starlight Entertainment, the newly formed festival has been deemed the jewel of eastern Canada.

Fore more information about Kirk visit:  https://www.facebook.com/kirkdiamondmusic/

Fore more information about Hawkeye visit:  https://www.facebook.com/hawkeyemusic


Corden (Keyboards) - Joseph (Bass) - Hawkeye - Kirk Diamond

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