THE stage is set for this evening’s start to the three-night Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium.

Walter Elmore, executive producer of the event, said all is in place for tonight’s opening set, which is dedicated to the life and work of the reggae great John Holt.

“It’s a tribute to John Holt. We have pulled together a great set of artistes, as well as two of Holt’s sons, who will perform all music made popular by John. He has done so much for the music, not just here in Jamaica, but also overseas,” Elmore told the Jamaica Observer.

Holt — known for tracks including If I were a Carpenter, Love I Can Feel, One More Box of Hops and Smiling Face — died of cancer in London last October.

Among the artistes set to perform on tonight’s show are Lloyd Parks and We The People Band, Josey Wales, Errol Dunkley, The Tamlins, George Nooks, and Judy Mowatt.

Meanwhile, Elmore said this year’s headliner Mariah Carey is expected to arrive in the island today ahead of her performance on tomorrow’s show.

“Her team is already here and have conducted all the quality checks. She will be performing the same set which formed her Asia tour with all the lighting, sound and special effects. It is all going to be just amazing,” he said.

He is, however, excited about what is in store for Saturday’s show.

“Saturday night has such a diverse line-up. You have Magic! with that monster hit Rude!; Soja which is taking reggae all over the world; Charlie Wilson with all those Gap Band hits; The Pointer Sisters whose hits are legendary; and Peter Cetera who can be compared to Air Supply. What you are looking at is a sing-along come Saturday.”

Elmore noted that tickets are still available at outlets and at the gate and therefore persons who are still undecided can make their way to the festival.

The other acts performing on the festival are Arturo Tappin, Richie Stephens, Morgan Heritage, Oscar B, and Cornell Campbell.