New York , USA — Behind a vintage performance that captured the hearts of thousands of music fans, legendary entertainer Toots Hibbert of Toots and the Maytals fame, and current singing sensation Tessanne Chin were on Sunday presented with the United States Congressional Proclamation at the annual ‘Groovin In The Park’ reggae and R&B concert here.

The proclamations were made through the efforts of US-born Jamaican Congresswoman Yvette Clarke. It recognised Toots’s “contribution to Jamaica’s musical development for more than 50 years”.

Chin, the winner of NBC‘s The Voice singing competition three years ago, was recognised for her “sterling performance and achievements” during that competition that inspired an outburst of patriotism then and since.

For Toots, Sunday’s appearance was special. Booked as one of the performers three years ago, he was forced to withdraw after being injured while performing in Virginia.

He began his act with the single I will never grow old, as an indication that he will continue to perform for sometime yet. But it was the super hits Country Road and 5446 That’s My Number which sent the crowd into a frenzy.

Reggae super star Beres Hammond — a crowd favourite — and R&B singer Peabo Bryson delivered performances that brought the large and appreciative crowed to its feet several times.