HUNDREDS of soca and music lovers converged at the VMBS parking lot in St Andrew for Wray & Nephew Jamaica Carnival’s Soca In Da City last Saturday. The event was the first in the Jamaica Carnival’s series.

A high-energy set from soca queen Alison Hinds, as well as impromptu performances by Chi Ching Ching and Tanto Blacks, kept patrons thoroughly entertained. DJs Supa Hype and Kurt Riley provided the music.

Hinds took the stage just before 1:00 am in a black outfit. In her usual vibrant style she engaged the audience and even found a male patron to equal her dancing prowess. Deejay Tanto Blacks then jumped into her set, adding a dancehall flavour.

Singjay Chi Ching Ching joined Hinds on stage and performed his hits songs Breadfruit, Watchi Wiya, and Rock Di World. He left the crowd begging for more.

“The vibe was off the chain, the energy from the people was real and I loved every bit of it. Everyone was dancing and singing along to my songs; it was amazing,” said Hinds. “I will be back in Jamaica and on the road jumping with the Jamaica Carnival band. I’ve never done a road march in Jamaica before only the lead-up events and I’m looking forward to that. One thing I know for sure: I won’t be staying on a truck the entire time, so line up security because I’ll be chipping down the road with Jamaica Carnival.”

Pietro Gramegna, marketing manager at J Wray & Nephew Limited, was pleased with the turnout.

“We are ecstatic by the strong support for Wray & Nephew Jamaica Carnival’s Soca In Da City. This was our first carnival event of the season, and all expectations were exceeded in a ‘wraytastic’ manner. Alison Hinds proved once again that she deserves the “Queen of Soca” title with a first-rate performance that had patrons in a great vibe,” he said.

The next event is slated for March 25 at Pier One in Montego Bay in St James.