Duane Stephenson Headlines Reggae Soul Edition of Encore Live Series in Ocho Rios

Reggae singer Duane Stephenson takes top billing this Sunday when the Encore Live Series presents its Reggae Soul edition at 8 Rivaz Ultra Lounge in Ocho Rios, St Ann. The session runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Stephenson, whose soulful vocals, thoughtful songwriting and commanding turn on stage have won him a following, will guide patrons through a night of authentic reggae with backing from the Kurfew Band. The staging has been shaped so that little distance remains between artiste and audience inside an upscale lounge setting.

Reggae Soul sits under the Encore Live Series banner, a premium entertainment concept built to bring together live Jamaican music, culture, hospitality and nightlife. Those behind it want to deepen what the north coast offers in live entertainment, while giving residents, visitors and music lovers steady access to well-regarded Jamaican performers.

“From the beginning, Encore Live was never just about putting on concerts. It’s about creating a home for premium live reggae experiences on the north coast,” said Errol Smith, managing director of Midas Entertainment. “We believe Ocho Rios deserves more opportunities to experience artistes of this calibre in an intimate setting, and Reggae Soul is another step in building that culture.”

The evening puts Stephenson’s music at the centre of a bill pitched at reggae faithful, professionals, tourists and lifestyle audiences looking for a polished Sunday out. Working with a live band gives him room to display the range of his songbook and the musicianship that has marked him as one of the respected contemporary voices in the genre.

Smith added, “Duane Stephenson represents everything we love about reggae: great songs, genuine artistry and an incredible live performer.”

The Encore Live summer run is building towards its major finale at Plantation Cove in St Ann on Sunday, August 30.