Marshall Thompson, the only surviving lead singer of the legendary R&B group, the Chi-Lites, rocked the house with a barrage of classics including “Oh Girl”, “Have You Seen Her” and a most passionate rendition of “Coldest Days of My Life”. However, it was “Hot On A Thing,” a song from the new album Chi Lites featuring Marshall Thompson that sent shock waves through the audience and got everyone on their feet dancing to his latest groove.
Another very impressive veteran crooner was Bunny Brown, the Jamaican lead singer of the American group, Heatwave, who delivered his timeless signature song “Always And Forever.”
It was so touching that the newlyweds, Gwen and Corporal Michael James, seized the moment for a public show of affection as they stood up and embraced each other passionately in a toast of happiness. With his crisp, golden but youthful tenor voice, he also sang ” Change Is Gonna Come, “Just My Imagination” and “Unchained Melody” from his new album, “ Brown Sings The Classic Soul Hits Volume 1.” Under new management by Maxine Nolan of Pure Fame Media, he is planning aggressive promotion for his new songs.
The night of great singers also featured Lukie-D, a member of popular quartet L.U.S.T., who was very effective with his solo version of their hit song “Just As I Am.” His personal reggae hits, somewhat reminiscent of Sanchez, were also well received and especially appreciated by the younger audience as he thrilled with “Just Believe in Yourself,” “Bridge Over Troubled Waters,” and “Center of Attraction.”
Dancemaster gave one of his best performances ever. The widely underrated entertainer sang his original hits “In The Center” and “Sugarcane” followed by a medley of Ska, closing his set with “Dance to the Music,” which shows his crossover mastery of house music. As his name suggests, he brings great energy to the stage as he thrills with precise dance moves including flashes of Michael Jackson and Usher.
The Rhythm Master Band also performed a variety of popular reggae hits from Dennis Brown, Bob Marley, Queen Ifrika and more, while DJ Roy of Road International and Irie Jam Media Group provided music and sound. Master of Ceremonies was the iconic Lenny Green, Host of “the Quiet Storm” on WBLS 107.5 FM. Magician & mentalist, Ken Salaz, made stunning predictions and revealed “secrets” of volunteers from the audience and earned thunderous applause.
With creative direction by Patricia Carr, the contestants also contributed to the entertainment with a lively talent competition in song, dance and spoken word. An impressive standout was a stunning dance performed by out-going queen, Shakira President, after her final walk and just before she crowned the beautiful eighteen-year-old Jamaican winner, Tamara Frater, as Miss Dream Castle 2013.
Frater is an aspiring singer and management major at the College of New Jersey. Her prizes include a scholarship valued at US$2,000, a trip for two to Jamaica and a seven-day stay at Dream Castle Villa in Ironshore, St James. First Runner-Up is Nosizo Mahlangy of South Africa and Second Runner-Up is Shaska Coarteson of Jamaica. Other finalists include Teanndra Chandle (Mount Vernon NY), Katherin Jennings (Bronx NY/Dominican, Jamaican), Candice McCalla (Canada), Annesha Collins, Tiana Naraeiga (Trinidad), Oceana Porter (New York), Kasean Taylor, Genea Morrow (Manhattan NY), and Billiandra Hernandez (New York/ Dominican).
The decision to crown Frater was well received by the audience. The judges are Eashwayne Haugthon, CEO of Wayside Promotions and Investment LTD., and member of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission; Colin O. Dacres, Vice President at HSBC Bank USA and board member of the Housing Action Council; Desmond Young, singer, songwriter, record producer and President of the Jamaica Federation of Musicians & Affiliated Artists Union; Chris Daniele of Centre Stage Group. LLC., a producer of regional theater and accomplished script editor; Judy Villeneuve, a former Beauty Queen; and Supermodel RockyHes.
