Grandison, left, and Willis
Eddie Grant, Contributor
TORONTO:
JAMAICAN ARTISTES were front and centre when various Caribbean gospel performers gathered at the Islington Evangel Centre in Toronto earlier this month for a gospel concert.
In fact, the headline act was Shirley Willis, a former member of the renowned Jamaican gospel group, Grace Thrillers one of Toronto's most celebrated folk groups. They were joined by fellow Jamaicans Marie English Critchlow, Joy Grandison and the singing sisters, Tracey and Micaela Tomlinson.
The concert line-up was completed with performers Lloyd Brown, Michelle Henry, Vessels of Worship, Soul Influence, gospel trumpet player Dave Brown, and the Gospel Ensemble.
As the main attraction, Willis popularly known as the 'Caribbean Darling of Gospel' was spectacular and the audience enjoyed every moment of her performance. She had the more than 500 guests constantly dancing to songs such as Tell Me The Story of Jesus. Several of her songs were taken from her Trust Him More CD.
Willis used the width of the stage to her full advantage, bouncing from one end to the other. She showed why she has earned the reputation of being a dynamic entertainer, known throughout North America, the Caribbean and the United Kingdom.
There was no letting up as Willis entertained and pleased the crowd with one song after another, including His Name is Wonderful, My God Is Real and The Lord Will Make A Way. The audience's favourite however was Can't Even Walk
The Heritage Singers, a household name in folk, Caribbean and contemporary music, seemed determined not to be outdone. The group which is always a delight to watch was not disappointing.
Some of the songs to which the audience was treated were Rivers of Babylon and a medley of Send Down The Rain, A Little More Oil and On That Great Day. The audience showed their appreciation with loud and resounding applause.
Vocalist Carl Brown's magnificent rendition of an old Jamaican folk song had the audience cheering wildly and begging for more. However, he was unable to oblige. Pressed for time because of a late start, the organisers were forced to shorten the time for each act.
When Critchlow performed she was only allowed to do two songs Lilly of The Valley and No Other Name. The Tomlinson Sisters pleased with their version of My Prayer and the applause from the audience was truly deafening.
Part proceeds from the concert were expected to go to the Golden Age Rest Home in Kingston, Jamaica.
