PRIORY, St Ann — Empress Etana proved once again that she belongs at the very top of female reggae pantheon with a polished set on the first night of Rebel Salute.

Striding on stage just before 12:30 am, crooning lyrics from ‘Selassie is the Chapel’ she delivered like a veteran and had the crowd singing along with every word.

‘The Strong One’ delivered a mixture of some of her hits as well a couple of songs from her newest album, I Rise, including On My Way, Wrong Address, and I am not afraid mixed with a tribute.

Meanwhile, Veteran reggae artiste Junior Kelly brought the house down during his performance.

The artiste, who has not performed in Jamaica for years, had patrons for the most part on their feet during his set, which included a good mix of old and new songs.

He closed with If love so nice- one of his most successful recordings to date.

Other artistes who performed on the first night of the two day- music festival included Tony Rebel, Third World, Capleton, I Wayne, Alborosie, and Israel Vibration.

The event continues tonight at the same venue.

Mark Cummings and Paul Reid