Stacey Mirander shines at Spragga Benz Journey to Kingston concert

Patrons at the Miramar Cultural Center in South Florida reacted with surprise when three men helped reggae artiste Stacey Mirander up to the stage during Spragga Benz's Journey to Kingston birthday show. Mirander, who appeared caught off guard, was greeted before the crowd by Miramar Commissioner Maxwell B. Chambers and Spragga Benz.

The unexpected appearance quickly turned into a highlight of the programme. After receiving a microphone, Mirander held back until Laa Lee had finished performing. She then moved into her original song, Oh Mother Earth, delivering it a cappella.

Her vocals rang through the venue with force and precision, and the audience responded right away. Soon after, the band came in, with supporting singers following, and the stripped-down start grew into a full reggae performance that pulled the room in.

For Mirander, the night carried major personal meaning. "It was a moment I had been waiting for, a dream unfolding in real time, and I am deeply grateful to have had the opportunity," she said. "Happy birthday to Spragga Benz for sharing such a special moment with so many people on a day meant to celebrate him."

The set was also special because it was the first time Mirander had sung live with a complete band in front of an audience. She said Oh Mother Earth will be an important track on her upcoming debut album, which she wants to use to bring her sound to more listeners.

"I had only done my first live band rehearsal a few days before, and it was invigorating," she said. "I could feel the energy in the room and the spirit of reggae music flowing through me."

Journey to Kingston featured several reggae and dancehall acts, among them Wayne Wonder, Agent Sasco, Everton Blender, Ky-Mani Marley and Bugle. The Ruff Kut Band and the Florida Memorial University Orchestra supported the performers, adding a mix of reggae grooves and orchestral textures.

The South Florida concert was the first date in the Journey to Kingston series. The run is expected to move on to Philadelphia before closing in Kingston, Jamaica.