Monday, December 8, 2025
Enchanting melodies filled The Summit in New Kingston last Thursday, courtesy of vocalist Apryl Jaye, at the second edition of Jazz Must Be: A Night of Jazz Fusion, Tribute and Community Giving.
Held under the patronage of Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange, and presented by Island Car Rentals, the concert offered a memorable musical experience. Patrons, who adhered to the all-or-mostly-white dress code, enjoyed a tight, vibrant, two-hour set. The performance also included moving tributes to reggae greats Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Delroy Wilson, and John Holt, as well as R&B artistes Angie Stone and D’Angelo.
The backing band included percussionist Keniel Delisser, bassist Dale Brown, trumpeter Okiel McIntyre, guitarist Lamont Savory, and Gregory Palmer on keyboard. There was, too, a guest performance by reggae artiste Duane Stephenson.
Expressing gratitude for the support for the event’s second iteration, Apryl Jaye also thanked the dedicated musicians who fully embraced her vision for the series.
“Walking into a full house left me in awe. I am just so grateful that each year I find people who are interested in what I have to give and it means the world,” she shared.
Page 2 brings highlights.
Hitting The Right Notes Singer Apryl Jaye delivered a captivating set accompanied by trumpeter Okiel McIntyre. (Karl Mclarty)
Pitch-Perfect Financial Advisor Theodore Williams and technology solutions consultant Olivia Leslie made the most of intermission to snag a photo-op. Karl Mclarty
Improv Entrance Spotted at the concert was Red Stripe Brand Manager Amoye Phillpotts-Brown. Karl Mclarty
Sleek Cadence Tweed Business Solutions principal Joamie Tweed nailed the polished look in a chic short suit set, courtesy of Zara. Karl Mclarty
A 20-Year Duet Jazz Must Be was the perfect occasion for firefighter Joseph Thomas and his payroll officer wife Kaydian to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary. Karl Mclarty
Family Harmony Preparing to enjoy a night of jazz were Administrative Assistant Marlene Thorpe (left), daughter Abigail (right), sisters Almarie Fuller (second left) and Annette Harris, as well as Annettte’s husband, Councillor Andrew Harris of the Jamaica Labour Party, Hughenden Division. Karl Mclarty