On Saturday, legendary reggae singer Barrington Levy will lead an ‘A-list’ cast at Coveside Concerts’ first show for the 2025 season at Plantation Cove in St Ann. Appropriately titled One Drop, the showcase includes Gramps Morgan, Luciano, and Dance Xpressionz.
Barrington Levy, reggae music’s Mellow Canary, celebrates 50 years in the music industry come 2026, and he is in full swing for the concert. The hitmaker, who churned out hits such as Under Mi Sensi, Black Roses, My Woman and 21 Girls Salute, cemented his place on the international music scene when his 1985 crossover hit Here I Come reached number 41 in the UK Singles Chart.
“I am looking forward to a great musical experience at One Drop Concert this Saturday. It is going to be real special being in the company of two blessed voices from Luciano and Gramps Morgan. Turn out and let’s turn it up!” an enthusiastic Levy told The Gleaner.
Gramps Morgan, a member of the Grammy-Award winning sibling group Morgan Heritage, is billed to deliver a full set, and his goal is always to continue the rich legacy of the Morgan family. Having performed at sold-out stadiums around the world with his siblings, Gramps is fully established as a successful solo artiste with songs such as People Like You and A Woman Like You.
Gramps told The Gleaner that he is delighted to be sharing stage with Levy for more reasons than one.
“Unfortunately, me and Barrington didn’t get a chance to rehearse together, but we’ve done shows together in the past … most recently in Barbados on one of my solo concerts we shared the stage together. It is always a pleasure to be around him. I’ve known him since 1992. We were all signed to the same record label when record companies in the United States were signing artistes on rapid ... so to see where we are in life today is a great feeling,” Gramps said.
He added, “This weekend is a dream come true, and it gives me an opportunity to once again show him how he has influenced me as an artiste, and show him how much I have grown. This weekend will be a weekend to remember. We’ve worked hard … my team of Contractor Music, my band ... and Dean Fraser has helped me so much . We look forward to seeing everyone.”
Gramps, who had formed the group The Trinity of Morgan Heritage with his brothers Mr Mojo and the late Peter, reflected briefly on life.
“Even at the last rehearsal, me and Luciano and his team were just sharing memories of my brother Peter Morgan, and just reflecting on life and how precious it is, and this is why I cherish moments like this. There’s a job to do in the music: to keep the message in the music, and I look forward to continuing this with my family,” Gramps said.
Creative Director of Coveside Vonni Koromanti spoke highly about the professionalism of the artistes on the line-up.
“The contingent of Dance Expressionz, Luciano, Gramps Morgan and Luciano are fine-tuning their sets to deliver a magical night of performances to patrons. It is an absolute pleasure to work with first-rate professional artistes who are committed to preserving the Jamaican culture of excellence,” Koromanti stated.
Asked what to expect from One Drop, she emphasised power-packed performances, a curated show ably directed by Dean Fraser, and a relaxing concert vibe.
“[There will be] seamless logistics from entry to exit ... patrons may travel in style with transportation partner Knutsford Express, which will provide return trip options. There is a luxury package inclusive of dinner, seating and cocktails. Patrons will also have the opportunity to upgrade their tickets on the day. With the purchase of each luxe ticket, FESCO [sponsor] is providing a free gas voucher while Chicken and Tings [sponsor] will provide a complimentary chicken meal,” Koromanti added.
Gates open at 5 p.m. and showtime is 7 p.m.