Declaring the 90s the “greatest decade of music in the history of mankind”, Brian McKnight took Live & Direc patrons on a trip down memory lane as he expertly served up timeless classics from his extensive catalogue.

It were as if he scooped each audience member up and loaded them onto a time machine taking them back to an era when music lifted spirits and soothed souls. With each selection, the experienced R&B crooner thrilled the audience, proving exactly why his career has spanned more than three decades.

Clad in a crisp, white suit, McKnight took to the stage at Constant Spring Golf Club to screams from adoring female fans. Immediately, romance wafted through the air as couples drew closer, staring lovingly into each other’s eyes as the sounds and lyrics from McKnight’s most popular hits served as the soundtrack.

Stealing occasional kisses as they cuddled under the stars, patrons fully immersed themselves in the experience.

As the Jamaica Observer team noted the pleasure plastered across the faces of patron, one thing became clear, Live & Direc wasn’t just an event, it was a magical moment of music history.

“Thank you for being here with me. It’s been a while since I’ve been in Jamaica, and ’m glad to be back. You had many options for entertainment on your Saturday evening but I’m grateful you chose to spend it with me,” said McKnight as he chatted with his fans.

Highlighting that his career has passed the three-decade threshold, the entertainer said he couldn’t have built the legacy he has without the support of his fans.

“It’s a great honour and privilege to be here with you,” he added.

Showing his gratitude in the most fitting format, McKnight turned in spectacular performances of some of his biggest hits including, Love Of My Life, Still In Love, The Only One For Me, and Anytime.

But even the singer himself was not immune to the emotions his songs often trigger. During a sweet rendition of his single, Everything — which he dedicated to his wife, Leilani — McKnight wiped away tears. Earlier, in a strong declaration of love, McKnight shared how his now wife changed his view on love, highlighting that although he would sing love songs, he never believed in the kind of love he now gets to experience with his wife.

The night only got better from there as the singer also took the time to honour lost love. Acknowledging those in the audience who may be experiencing heartbreak, McKnight turned in a touching performance of his mega-hit 6, 8, 12. Now fully captivated, the crowd transformed into a choir as they sang along to the popular hit. The choir got even louder when the entertainer transitioned into Back At One. Well aware of the special place that track holds in the hearts of many, the entertainer acknowledged that he would be remiss had he not included it in his set.

After more than an hour of striking the right chords, McKnight ended his set with a fitting rendition of One Last Cry.

But McKnight wasn’t the only top-notch performer on the evening’s line-up. Before him world-renowned R&B group Dru Hill also turned in a memorable set. Armed with an arsenal of hits themselves, the group also had the crowd reminiscing on the magic of the 90s.

Indicating that this year marks their 35th anniversary in music, the group delivered an energetic set marked by synchronised choreography and smooth vocals. How Deep is Your Love, We’re Not Making Love No More, Tell Me, Beauty, These are the Times, and 1997 platinum-certified In My Bed were some of the hits the group used to woo the audience.

But while it was all about the group and their hits, it wouldn’t quite be a Dru Hill experience without standout member Sisqo singing the Thong Song. The crowd beckoned for it as the set drew to a close and Sisqo delivered.

In a post-performance interview, the group said they were delighted to share their catalogue with their fans in Kingston, dubbing their trip to the island as one of their most memorable experiences.

“We came over here and we ain’t been to Kingston in a while and it’s been good, it’s been all love, the hospitality is good, so we appreciate that,” said Larry “Jazz” Anthony.

“We’ve basically had a resurgence as Tell Me is trending on social media. Younger folks are basically discovering us with the Dru Hill challenge, and we love that. It’s a very spiritual place here in Kingston and everybody was singing. That soul singing that gets into the soul of the people, that’s a beautiful thing,” Sisqo added.

Adding to that sentiment was Minister of Culture and Entertainment Olivia “Babsy” Grange. She told the Observer that, as the entertainment mecca of the Caribbean, Jamaica continues to raise the bar on live entertainment. She expressed that the island not only churns out world-class talent, but is also capable of delivering world-class productions.

“I’m happy, it’s a good show; nice vibe and good music. We have reached a level in this country for producing shows that I am proud of. This event tonight was well put together and other events we’ve had over the years, the standard continues to be elevated to the next level,” she said. “When we have a show that highlights US talent or talent outside of Jamaica it helps to create that nice mix of Jamaica being able to hold concerts of all genres. Yes, we’re reggae and dancehall, but tonight we showed that we can also be hip hop and R&B. I am extremely proud of that.”

In addition to the main acts, the concert also saw top performances from Christopher Ellis, son of legendary reggae singer Alton Ellis as well as rising reggae songstress Joby Jay and 2022 Digicel Rising Star Mozein Sutherland.

Dru Hill acknowledges the audience’s appreciation with a bow. (Photos: Karl Mclarty)

Sisqo in action (Karl Mclarty)

The audience takes a rest from screaming and singing along. (Karl McLarty)

Joby Jay takes the Live and Direc stage on Saturday. Karl Mclarty

Christopher Ellis gets intense with the crowd. Karl Mclarty

Sisqo and dancers mesmerise the audience. Karl Mclarty

Brian McKnight shows off his guitar skills. Karl Mclarty

In a crisp white suit Brian McKnight thrills the crowd at Constant Spring Golf Club on Saturday night. Karl Mclarty