VETERANS Marcia Griffiths, Yellowman, George Nook and Maxi Priest were outstanding on the first night of the three-day 2012 staging of the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival at the Greenfield Stadium in Trelawny on Thursday.

The golden voiced and energetic Griffiths had the crowd engaged throughout her performance as she went through her catalogue of hit songs which included I Shall Sing, Feel Like Jumping.

Yellowman showed patrons attending the festival that he is still ‘King of the Dancehall’. Jumping, kicking and running from one end of the stage to the next, he delivered his favourite such as Zungu Zungu Zeng, I’m Getting Married, Come Back Darling. And, when he belted out a few bars from the Fats Domino cover Blueberry Hill, he was in his element.

“This song is for the ladies. I don’t care if you have a boyfriend. When I do it ladies must see how I look,” he said. And, with that comment, off came his shirt and some provocative gyration.

George Nooks and Maxi Priest had the audience eating out of their hands.

The evening, which organisers dedicated to Jamaica’s 50th year of Independence, saw great performances from all the artistes billed.

Veteran John Holt showed no signs of slowing down as he kept the crowd singing along to hit songs such as If I were a Carpenter, Stick By Me and Wear You to the Ball.

Ky-Mani Marley and Luciano kept the energy flowing by ensuring there wasn’t a boring moment.

Following acts included Half Pint, Chris Martin, Agent Sasco, Michael Rose, Etana and Shaggy, who closed in fine style.

With guests Rayvon, Rik Rok and Ne-Yo, Shaggy worked a blistering set.

Earlier in the evening, the festival’s organising committee presented awards to some artistes who have helped to set the foundation on which today’s entertainers enjoy. Those honoured were Yellowman, Lloyd Parks, Derrick Morgan, John Holt and Marcia Griffiths. The festival concludes tonight with performances from Heads of States (former members of New Edition), Temptations Review, Destra, Earl Klugh and Damian Marley.