3 months ago
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Earth Hour Ja’s acoustic free concert returns to Palm Drive, Hope Gardens, today from 5 to 10 p.m., continuing its mission of using music to inspire environmental action. Since its launch in 2013, the event has brought thousands of Jamaicans together to raise awareness about climate change and practical ways to mitigate its effects.
Earth Hour, a global movement organised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to ‘Give an Hour for Earth’ by switching off their lights in a show of solidarity. This year’s concert will bring a mix of familiar and fresh faces to the stage, staying true to its acoustic style. The line-up includes Luciano, Keznamdi, Sevana, Irie Souljah, and Zaila Jazz.
Speaking with The Gleaner, recording artiste Sevana said she answered the call to perform because she “believes in reflecting on how consumerism, greed and ultimately the abuse of our natural resources impacts all our lives and it aligns with my value system so I wanted to give of my time and talent.”
The Mango artiste added that fans and attendees can expect “authentic vibes and heartfelt moments” throughout her set. Plus, to make things even more special, she has a surprise in store.
“I have actually invited some of my fans to join me for a special song in my performance, I made a post on social media this week and got so many yeses in my DMs and I’m excited to share this experience with everyone!” Sevana said.
Reggae artiste Keznamdi, who is equally as excited about performing, explained that his passion for raising awareness about how we, as a people, treat our environment, is something that has always stuck with him.
“ I’ve always been passionate about raising awareness of how we treat Mama Earth, the very thing that gives us life! It’s been a good likkle while since I last performed in Jamaica, so when Earth Hour reached out, it was an easy decision to say yes. With my upcoming album about to be released, we’re stepping more into the forefront, but more importantly, the actual initiative behind Earth Hour and Esirom Foundation aligns deeply with my mission as an artiste,” he explained
Keznamdi, who’s bringing a talented group of musicians for his acoustic set, is especially looking forward to performing at home, as it’s been a while since he last did.
“I’m truly excited to connect with the people in such a meaningful way. The music will be impeccable, and the message will be potent, clean, and strong. We’ll be performing some older songs, as well as introducing some brand-new records from the upcoming album, songs nobody has heard yet.”
As Earth Hour coincides with World Water Day this year, organisers, Esirom Foundation, has special plans in place to highlight the importance of water, starting with a sustainability corner.
“The Esirom Foundation booth will highlight the value of water in our environment in various ways: From providing information on our Kingston Harbour Eco Restoration Initiative (KHERI) that addresses the harbour’s pollution through clean-up and community education efforts, to interactive educational games, quizzes, and give-aways that will increase patrons’ awareness of the importance of this precious resource that we so often take for granted,” Khalia Hall, sustainability manager, told The Gleaner.
Adding to what patrons can look forward to this year, Alex Morrissey, founder and director of Esirom, explained that a wide variety of food options will be among the offerings, as well as a special treat put on by Hope Zoo.
“This is the first year of our ‘Wildlife Wonders’ booth, executed by Hope Zoo, where patrons will be able to connect with creatures, such as iguanas, snakes and birds,” Morrissey said, adding, “During the show we will have an exciting fire show to mark the official ‘Earth Hour’, between 8:30 and 9:30pm, where all essential lights switch off and we dedicate the moment to Mother Earth. The lights-off moment is different each year and always a highlight.”
For first-time attendees joining the experience this year, Hall and Morrissey recommend bringing four key items to fully enjoy the concert: a blanket or chairs for comfort, a reusable bottle, utensils, and cups as part of the Esirom Foundation’s #BYOT campaign to reduce single-use plastics, cash for food and drinks, and a portable charger.
English (US) ·