THE legacy of reggae messenger Garnet Silk is growing. This was evident throughout the latest Conscious Reggae Party show, held at Redbones Blues Café in St Andrew on Friday night.

Dubbed ‘Tribute to Garnet Silk’, the show was held two days after his 48th birthday. It was an amazing commemoration for the singer who died tragically 20 years ago.

Among the artistes who gave invigorating performances for the full house were Natural Black, Nature and Ziggy Soul. The Livyn Kulcha and Kurfew band shared backing duties.

Silk’s son Garnet Jr, and his brother Aaron Silk also stood out. Upcoming acts Papa D, Hefla Nyah, Dann I, Minouri, Timmy Talib and Thorpedo were also well received.

Papa D set the pace with a high-energy performance with the songs Jamaica Jamaicans, Walking on The Rainbow, Earth Rightful Ruler, The 23rd Psalm and Girl Like You.

Aaron Silk was mesmerising with original songs, as well as renditions of his famous sibling’s hits. Zion In a Vision, Mama Africa, It’s Growing and Bless I Oh Jah were some of the songs he performed from Silk’s catalogue.

Then came tracks from his forthcoming album Herb Tree, such as I Rise, Empress and Family Stable.

Silk Jr personified his father’s enduring charisma and stage presence.

The 19-year-old singer performed the originals Jah Chosen Few and Lady Divine, before doing contemporary versions of Silk’s A Place In Your Heart and Nothing Can Divide Us.

Nature gave a credible performance, while Natural Black lived up to his high standards. After stirring performances of new songs, Don’t Play With My Heart, I Love You and Will Life Be The Same Way, Natural Black — whose set was bolstered by an impromptu appearance from Turbulence — earned an encore. He obliged with his most popular song, Far From Reality.

The tribute was not all music. There were contributions from author/journalist Sharon Parris-Chambers in the segment Reggae-lution Speaker, and motivational speaker Kevin Wallen who filled the ‘Messenjah’ slot.

Garnet Damion Smith (Silk) Sr was born April 2, 1966. He died December 9, 1994 while attempting to rescue his mother from a burning house.

She also perished in the blaze.