2 weeks ago
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Jazz vocalist Vaughnette Bigford was moved to tears during a heartfelt rendition of Memory of Your Smile as she paid tribute to late cultural and musical luminaries Kay Alleyne, Moricia Cagan, Patti Rogers, Raf Robertson, Clive Zanda, Arthur Lewis, Marlon De Bique, and her grandfather. This emotional moment was a highlight of her EMOJA concert, held on August 2 at the Naparima Bowl.
The evening was not solely about remembrance. Bigford also celebrated living legends—Karega Mandela, Mavis John, and Valentino—honouring their contributions to the nation’s cultural landscape.
Each was recognised through powerful musical salutes and evocative spoken word performances. Spoken word artiste Zakiya “Griot” Gill delivered stirring, dramatic tributes to the three honorees, weaving their greatest achievements into poetry laced with admiration and reverence.
Bigford’s own musical offerings reflected the spirit and resilience of the icons she celebrated: Never Surrender and Free Up Africa for Karega Mandela; I Will Be Your Friend and Use My Body in honour of Mavis John; and Birds That Fly and Stay Up Zimbabwe as a salute to Valentino.
The “songbird of the south,” making two striking wardrobe changes throughout the evening, also treated the audience to a wide repertoire, including Who God Bless, Nature’s Plan, Black Woman, Different People, Caribbean Connection, Dream of Me, Reason, Say a Little Prayer, Tell Me Why, and Good Good Spirits.
One standout moment came when Sharlan Bailey, son of the late calypsonian Shadow (Winston Bailey), brought the house down with an electrifying performance of Stranger, earning a rousing standing ovation.
It was an evening that balanced reverence with celebration—a testament to Bigford’s gift for turning song into both tribute and triumph.
English (US) ·