Droves of teens and teens at heart celebrated the eighth annual staging of the Youth View Awards (YVAs) last Saturday at the National Indoors Sports Centre.

Fashionable patrons were seen capturing moments at LIME’s quick photo booth and the celebs on the re carpet.

A long line of patrons streamed into the venue, well after the 8:00 pm show time. But they were able to refresh themselves with complimentary KFC hot wings and beverages.

Holy Childhood High School student, Tara-Lee Thomas, shared: “It’s my first time here and I got my money’s worth. I’m definitely glad that I came.”

Bog Walk High School teen, Danecia Anderson, also stated that “It was a great experience, I would definitely come back.”

The hosts for the evening: ZJ Bambino and dancehall artiste, Stacious, entertained the audience and along with the Hype Crew, delighted the YVA Nation thoroughly with dance moves and song renditions. It was an evening filled with singing, dancing and overall good cheer.

Several veterans in the Jamaican music industry turned out in their finest. Great acts such like: Marcia Griffiths, Richie Stevens, Una Morgan, Freddie McGregor, and Shaggy, were just a few from the star studded list of presenters. Crowd favourites such like: Konshens, Spice, Tifa, Chronixx, Protoje, Miss Kitty and Kevin Downswell, all received awards for their various contributions to entertainment.

Tarrus Riley took the stage with the Black Soil Band. From the first sound of his voice carrying across the venue, the crowd erupted and continued right throughout his well received performance.

The YVA Dancers dazzled the audience with pieces choreographed to hit songs such as Bang Bang, All About That Bass among many others. Elegantly attired in white, Denyque (who celebrated her birthday on February 21), graced the stage for a thrilling performance. Positive vibrations were in order with Jesse Royal’s performance. He delivered solidly with much appreciation from his crowd and fans.

Vybz Kartel clearly stole the show since he had won four awards, and had the entire arena in disruption. His fans banged objects and screamed in echoing support. They created so much excitement over his successes, and the fact that two of his sons proudly received them on his behalf. He amassed awards for: ‘Favourite Male Artiste’, ‘Favourite Dancehall Artiste of the Year’, ‘Favourite Local Chart-Topping Song’ and ‘Hottest Summer Song’

Upon closing, there was a stimulating performance by Kreecha and Bling Dawg. The winner of KFC On the Verge, Deshawn, contributed a well executed performance of Chris Brown’s New Flame.

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