SATURDAY’S inclement weather did little to deter the large throng of patrons who turned out to Ding Ding’s birthday celebration at the National Stadium car park in St Andrew.

A number of the choreographer-cum-deejay’s colleagues from the entertainment fraternity came out in support. However, the evening’s highlight was the announcement that Magnum Tonic Wine is extending its partnership with the chart-topping artiste for an additional year.

“Tonight, we are all here to celebrate Ding Dong’s ‘earthstrong’ and in true Magnum style, after four years we are pleased to announce that we are re-signing Ding Dong not just as a brand ambassador but as a chief dancing officer. So, a big man ting this, we elevate di man contract — and now turn your attention to the stage we have a gift for Ding Dong,” said Kamal Powell, regional marketing manager for Magnum Tonic Wine.

At this point, patrons turned their gaze to the stage where a green life-sized gift box stood five feet tall waiting to be unboxed. To their delight, a Magnum hostess popped out through a burst of confetti displaying a platinum-encrusted gold chain with a “DD” pendant.

A surprised Ding Dong said he was pleased with the gift.

“Wow! Rich chain— di box frighten me, eh nuh. Magnum, big up unno self, you know seh a mi company and my brand. D and D the brand, big up everyone and thank you,” he disclosed.

Ding Dong was pleased with the turnout at the event despite the rain.

“This birthday celebration was a grand success, and you know we had to deliver and do it big. The fans dem did out showing their support as usual and mi happy fi see the crowd…it was amazing and mi glad seh everybody have fun despite the rain,” said Ding Dong.

The night continued into a stage show with appearances from international personality Safaree, Popeye Caution, Queenie, Bravo, Stalk Ashley, Moyann, Kranium, Iwaata, Marcy Chin, Pretty Pretty, Voicemail, Kash, 1Biggsdon, Chronic Law, Fada Dippo, Laa Lee, Kemar Highcon, and Aidonia.

Ding Dong joined the fun by performing some songs with the artistes. He collaborated with Laa Lee on the popular hit single Leggo Di Bird, and tag-teamed with Kemar Highcon on Saucy.

He also performed with Aidonia on Trigger Work It.