Moses I, organiser of Papine Showtime, plans to stage that event regularly this year to expose artistes from the Papine/August Town region.

The inaugural gig was held January 4 at Example Bar On Top in St Andrew.

Best known for the 1998 hit song Crazy Look (with Capleton), Moses I performed at Papine Showtime alongside an array of hometown acts.

Fostering a sense of community and quelling gang violence in the area is another objective.

“I’m very thankful for the turnout at the Papine Showtime, it was a great vibes for I and all the artistes from the community as they got the chance to showcase themselves. This vibes bring forward unity to the community, so I will be doing this show every four months for the year if it’s possible,” Moses I told the Jamaica Observer.

One of Jamaica’s cultural hotspots during the 1970s and 1980s, Papine was home to a large Rastafarian commune and had an active dancehall scene.

Papine Showtime featured acts from border communities such as August Town and Elletson Flats, including Reggie Amma, Israel Voice, Jah Bless, Jah Fiery, and Porridge Man.

“It’s a blessing to go back inna mi hometown wid di bredrin dem an’ energise a session wid artiste from different, different communities. Wi jus’ a get dem involved ‘cause a wi hometown an’ wi waan bring back a unity, an dis show can do dat,” said Moses I.

He remembers following sound systems like African Star and Jah Love when they played in Papine, August Town, Elletson Flats, Tavern, and Gordon Town. Brigadier Jerry, Tiger, Anthony Malvo, and Hopeton Lindo were some of the artistes who worked on those ‘sounds’.

During the 1970s, Papine/August Town attracted academics, musicians and sports personalities, including Peter Phillips (future government minister), Ilawi (Jah Love selector) and Delgado Taylor (Calabar Manning Cup goalkeeper).

In recent years, those areas have been beset by bouts of gang violence.