For dancehall artiste Govana it was easy to say yes to last Thursday’s installment of Livewire. In fact, the entertainer, who has been undertaking his own relief efforts to assist hurricane victims, said intimate shows for a good cause are always events he prioritises.

So when Livewire organisers expressed that part proceeds from the show would be donated to relief and rebuilding efforts for western parishes, he jumped at the opportunity to give of his time and talent.

“I think these smaller events help to build your core fan base, because when people are close to you and can hold a more personal vibe, the connection is always stronger. When it’s a smaller venue and people can look at you and feel like a dem yah look pan too, it gives a different energy,” the entertainer told the Jamaica Observer following his performance at Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records (UBTR) in Kingston. “With everything happening in Jamaica right now after the hurricane these kinds of events are even more important for fans. When dem link me for the show and said donations would be going to our brothers and sisters affected by the hurricane, it was a solid yes from me.”

Govana, who was overseas when Hurricane Melissa destroyed sections of western Jamaica, said images of the devastation deeply impacted him, as his heart broke seeing people homeless and hungry.

“[T]he images… put me inna depression; me just feel like a COVID all over again, mi frass. It was so daunting,” he said. “Now we’re here doing shows like these and trying to figure out ways to help and focus on rebuilding and helping people. The restoration a go take a strength from every single body locally and in the disapora to build back that side of the island, because, trust me, dem a feel it.”

The entertainer shared that while eastern parishes were spared the worst, the damage left by Hurricane Melissa will have ripple effects as the island’s agriculture and tourism sectors took a massive hit.

“We have to admit that it’s that section of the island that feeds us, and with agriculture and tourism taking a big hit it’s going to be a very rough time for all of Jamaica,” he said. “But even as we go through all of this, we ago push through as a nation, because our resilience is second to none.”

Govana turned in an energetic performance inside UBTR as he treated fans to a slew of his most noted hits. “Give Govi”, as he’s most affectionately called, served up songs including Champ, Convo, Four Storey, Saved by a Psalm, 1 Matic, Likkle Bit A Money, and more.

Gracing the stage at minutes after 1:00 am, the entertainer ensured everyone got a taste of their favourite tracks from his expansive catalogue.

The crowd, giving as much as they received, rewarded the deejay with loud screams of satisfaction.

Taking his performance over the edge, Govana invited fellow entertainers Aidonia and Munga Honourable to join him on stage, giving patrons more than expected.

But way before the night’s main act touched the stage patrons were adequately appeased by the event’s opening acts: Everaldo “Evie Pukupoo” Creary thrilled the audience with his unique selections and masterful delivery. Exuding confidence, the entertainer commanded the attention of the intimate crowd as he carried them away with performances of his original prices — Nah Walk Dem Talk and Pothole.

Ras-I, also delivered a top-notch set. Serving up songs such as Kingman Ting, Somewhere Wonderful, Soulmate, and Crazy Over You, the singer serenaded the ladies, adding a touch of softness to the hardcore line-up.

Yaadcore also turned in a creditable performance as the live entertainment series made its successful return for a worthy cause.

Carlton Davy (left), of Young Kings Entertainment; Angiel Shaw; and Govana.

Yaadcore.

Aidonia at Livewire.

Everaldo “Evie Pukupoo” Creary.

Govana.

Ras-I.