DESPITE a handful of guests being present at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC)-organised Emancipation Vigil at the Neville Antonio Park in Port Antonio, the event was not short of high-quality sets.

Portlander Daynea Deacon-Jones, JCDC 2018 Gospel Song winner was a hit among those who witnessed her set.

“When it comes to the preparation of songs, I am very much aware of the event and what it is about. If it is surrounding a particular theme then I work with that like what we did over the weekend. That was something moving into ‘Emancipendence’, so I focused on the theme and stuck with songs that were patriotic along with the theme. I merged songs that were patriotic along with songs that were popular surrounding the theme. I would mix a gospel song along with a patriotic song and find that unique blend that can also delight the audience. I try my very best to be mindful of the particular theme and the audience, both of them. I make sure that I have an idea of the audience and, most importantly, the theme. I also add my own flare to it,” she told the Jamaica Observer with a smile.

“Not a lot of persons were at the vigil, but it was still very good as I was mindful of the fact that I was just giving my 100 per cent, even if it was just two or three persons. The vibes and response was still good. At this particular time, I just thought of just niceness. Although it was about Emancipation, I was just focusing on letting the people have a good time. Doing a lot of chorus medley and songs that people love it as they sang, danced, and moved about to from start to finish,” she continued.

Deacon-Jones’ set included Mac 11 and her original Worshipper’s Heart.

Other singers included Jonicia Rowland, Elecia Bailey, and Tahera Brown. Backing duties were provided by the Uprising Gospel Band, with selections from lead singers Timmoya Lowe and Makelia Benjamin.

In keeping with historical precedence, Andrew Osbourne of the Moore Town Maroons blew the Abeng indicating freedom for all.