EMERGING act Karbon is part of the entertainment package slated for ‘The Marketplace’ at Rio Nuevo Plaza (next to the Cool Oasis Service Station) in St Mary on Friday December 9, and Saturday December 10.

Gates open at 7:00 am.

Lori-Ann McPherson is organiser of The Marketplace.

“The Marketplace is a place where small businesses and entrepreneurs can come and display their products with a view to get them in the hands of customers. It’s like a flea market and more,” McPherson, The Marketplace conceptualiser told the Jamaica Observer.

“I added a touch of entertainment as Karbon the Hard One is a very good artiste. I met him last year and his music is clean and uplifting. We need more of that sort of music. I also want people to know that reggae is still alive and well in Jamaica — not only dancehall,” McPherson continued.

The Manchester-born Karbon always had a passion for music; he wrote his first song as a teen and has never looked back. His songs include Lions Roar, Highgrade Maka, Fully Awake, and Journey.

McPherson — a graduate of St Catherine High in Spanish Town — said she always had a vision to assist small and fledgling business owners, especially women, in getting a boost.

“My vision is to do The Marketplace monthly, for now,” she said.

McPherson is encouraging small business owners and consumers to come on down.

“It doesn’t matter your age; one of our exhibitors is nine years old and she is selling jewellery so just come on down. There’s something for everyone.”

— Brian Bonitto