PETER Metro dominated the line-up of artistes billed for the ‘They Ruled The 80s’ event held at Purchase Farm in Bartons, St Catherine on Sunday.

The veteran deejay warmed the hearts of those who braved the cold to come out and enjoy themselves.

The minute he took centrestage, he predictably ditched the main stage to get closer to the fans. Grabbing a stool, he stood on it and performed to his willing audience who were more than happy to have him ‘in their face’.

It was clear that class was in session as he went back into history, his deejay style educating the masses with his lyrics on Jamaican happenings. Then he was the safe-sex advocate as he asked for a condom, held it up and started to chant on the virtues of practising safe sex.

The night, however, was not just about Peter Metro — good as he was. Kicking off to a very late start, the show opened with some local talents who unwisely came on stage with original materials, making the audience long for the prime acts even more.

Bammy Man heralded the first of the 80s act. He declared he would not work until ‘King Yellowman and other top acts graced the stage” and promptly made his exit.

After an appeal was made by one of the event’s execs, he reluctantly came back on stage to show why he is rated as one of the best “human boom boxes”, delivering some wicked beats from his mouth.

Robert French delivered with favourites such as Dem Nuh Rough Like We and Modern Girl.

Johnny P did an energetic set with Bike Back, Wear Tight Clothes and Old Bruck, but fell from grace with the use of expletives.

Following Daddy Lizard’s stint, it was time for Flourgon, who got the ball rolling with Bounce, and kept the momentum with Bun Dem, We Run Tings and Fresh.

His would have been a perfect set had he not chosen to take the low road of injecting expletives into his performance.

Commando Shad showed that age is just a number as the middle-aged performer had some fancy footwork and agile moves.

Burro Banton, who is know for his fast-talking lyrics, had the crowd going as he declared, “I’m coming with no gimmicks, just lyrics” — and that he did in fine style.

Yellowman was next, but his performance seemed a bit off. Known for his energetic, high-quality performance, his usual spark was missing. Still, he managed to keep the crowd in a sing-a-along with I’m Getting Married, Blueberry Hill and Come Back Darling.

Following Peter Metro, Echo Minott and General Trees brought the curtains down with some 80s favourites.