Best Friend Indeed - Jai’s Album Launch
Never Disappointed!
The droves that came out to celebrate ‘Best Friend’ with Jai and their best friend - God, were surely not disappointed. The long awaited debut album launch from former Katalys Crew break away solo sensation Wayne Buchanan, popularly known as Jai, was nothing short of a success. The event, which took place on Saturday, January 19, 2008, was scheduled to begin 7:00pm at the Oakton Complex in Half Way Tree beside the Portmore bus stop. By 7:30 pm, the already small venue was packed with well-wishers who came to celebrate with the new Gospel artiste extraordinaire. The launch got off to a great start with stellar praise and worship songs from the Perpetual Praise team that ably set the atmosphere for the Holy Spirit. After praise and worship, the night’s MC, Love 101’s Nadine Blair, welcomed the Mighty One to the stage. Jason Mighty, despite track glitches, had the crowd (young, old and in between) rocking with his hit song ‘Ketch A Fire’ and his new single, ‘Can’t Walk this Life Alone’. He then announced his upcoming album launch due sometime next month. Jason also used the opportunity to congratulate Jai and appealed for more prayers for Gospel Ministers in general. This was followed by a heartrending performance from the Chosen Prodigy who had patrons in a solemn and reflective mode with his new hit song ‘Cry’. He used the opportunity to speak about coping with the death of his newborn and to thank fans for their prayers and support during this time. He also announced his album launch due March 11.
Stellar Performances!
Afterwards there was a toast and exhortation given by good friend of the artiste, Rev. Edwards, who recounted among many things Jai’s spiritual journey which began at age 12 in August Town. Much to the amazement of the audience he and MC Nadine Blair had in hand actual wine glasses, presumably filled with water, to toast the artiste on his accomplishment. This signaled the artiste’s entrance on stage for the first time for the night. He had the audience jamming with collaborations done with upcoming talents SOP and DAJ and Moses-The Chosen One. Next up was a performance by none other than the self proclaimed Ghetto Priest. His performance could best be described as the ‘Comedy Bus’ segment of the night’s event. In true Goddy Goddy fashion he had the audience pealing with laughter, with a freestyle surrounding an elderly female fan. Upon his re-entrance to the stage, the celebrated one graced the stage with more mellow tunes like,’Spend My Always ‘ and ‘ Show Some Love ‘, which caused an even greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit, leading to an earlier than usual invitation for persons to give their lives to the Lord.
The Final Act…Big Names and Motorcycles
The final act of the night was the major highlight of the night. Picture Jai entering the stage on a bike as an intro to mega-hit ‘All I need! Lasting around 10minutes, this was an obvious treat for patrons who endured for at least 4hours in the jam packed venue. All in all it was a fabulous night of praise and worship to the Almighty, fellowship and of course celebrating with Jai and our Best Friend. Other artistes there to celebrate with Jai included Dj Nicholas, Prodigal Son and Kevin Downswell among others.
Supporters of the event included Love 101 (who broadcasted live) and B-Mobile and Tastee Cheese who had numerous giveaways and goodies for the audience.
Danique Williams - Contributor
February 12th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
May God continue to use you in a mighty way Jai and take you to greater heights of influenc with the Music. God Bless
April 30th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
It was a very awesome night. Rev. Curtis’ presence was inspiring too, to see that shepherding was still being fostered to him.God bless Jai!