Hewett promises a night to remember
FANS of Howard Hewett can brace themselves for a great performance from the American singer when he takes the stage for Soul in the Sun in Montego Bay Music Festival from October 10-12.
Hewett, who was part of the 1970s/80s aggregation Shalamar, is set for his Jamaican assignment. That group, comprising Jody Watley and Jeffrey Daniel, gave the smash hit A Night to Remember and The Second Time Around.
Speaking to the Jamaica Observer, Hewett noted that, although he has stayed true to his musical roots, the maturity gained over the years allows him to put on a much better show.
“With the years has come maturity, I hope,” he chuckles. “But, in all honesty, I have become more comfortable in my own skin, and with 30-plus years as a performer, I am a better person on stage, in a recording studio, and in life. Period,” said Hewett.
One of Hewett’s popular tracks is the inspirational Say Amen. It will be part of his ‘track listings’ for the event.
“Every one of my shows ends with Say Amen; whether I am performing in a club, theatre or arena,” he said.
He said spirituality has always been a factor in his music.
“Whatever I write and sing has to have a level of integrity. That’s why I never sing about sex, but rather about love and romance,” he said.
His other hits include Show Me and I Wanna Know You.
Currently, Hewett is working on an album, which he is producing through a company that he started with friends a few years ago. He sets the release date for the first quarter of 2015. He said six of the songs have already been completed, with another five tracks to go.
“The sound is the music you have come to know and love with a modern twist.. I have always looked at what works for me and stayed true to that… I guess that has contributed to my longevity in this business,” said Hewett.
As for Soul in the Sun, Hewett will be opening act of the overseas artistes on Saturday, October 11.
“I volounteered to go first, as I figure if I go out there, deliver my six to seven tunes and just kill it, the others are gonna have to come really good to top me. Any outcome it will be the audience that wins… it will be a great son, very fast-paced, high energy and I can’t wait to get to Jamaica,” he said.
Hewett will hand off to Regina Belle, who will be followed by Freddie Jackson, Peabo Bryson, and Jeffrey Osborne who closes the show. Jamaican singer Richie Stephens is the opening act.
