WITH the absence of the annual dancehall stage show Sting, residents of Portmore have craved for an event that would satisfy their entertainment needs.

Portmore Music Fest, which started in 2016, has since filled the void.

Promoted by SunCity 104.9 FM, Portmore Music Fest took place on Saturday, December 29, at the UDC parking lot, Portmore Mall.

A large contingent of performers rocked the event, leaving patrons satisfied.

Steve Billings, chairman of SunCity, said the event had exceeded expectations.

“Overall, the turnout was around 5,000 patrons and all the artistes gave stellar performances,” said Billings.

The likes of Gyptian, Beenie Man, Tommy Lee Sparta, Spragga Benz, Capleton, Cham, Warrior King, Chuck Fenda, Orisha Sound, Prestige, Munga Honorable, Junior Reid, Half Pint, Darrio, Maestro Don, Sikka Rymes, Prestige, Jahbar-I, Jahman, Shellingz, Bonnie Lin, Sean Kingston, Sean Paul, Chi Ching Ching, Predator, Nature Ellis, Blacker and Alozade, graced the stage keeping the crowd entertained.

Portmore-based charities, PSDO (Portmore Self Help Disability Organisation) and Mother in Crisis, are beneficiaries of part proceeds from the event.

Said Billings: “The next staging of Portmore Music Fest will feature more singers, as the female patrons have indicated that they want special attention. We are looking at Romain Virgo, Beres Hammond or Sanchez to please the females.”

Portmore Music Fest returns on December 28 at the same venue.