Good vibes at ‘The Windward’
ONCE home to hip clubs and cinemas, East Kingston was a hub for the in-crowd. It’s where Darren Hamilton grew up and developed a love for live entertainment and the history of Jamaican music.
Hamilton lives in New York City but maintains ties with his old stomping ground. He is owner of Rising From The East Entertainment and Publishing, proprietors of The Windward Bar And Lounge, a recently opened venue located along Windward Road.
Before it was officially named, the location hosted several live performances by singers Winston McAnuff, Kiddus I and Linval Thompson, and dances featuring the Merritone family. Since opening in July, it has attracted a diverse clientèle, including entertainers and corporate personalities.
East Kingston is still a popular area for hardcore dancehall events, while a number of independent music producers, such as Everton “Caveman” Moore, are based there. Hamilton believes The Windward Bar And Lounge is an alternative for persons looking for a more leisurely setting.
“The concept came about because we wanted to present a space where anyone can come and enjoy one of our signature drinks, delicious food, and get lost in the oasis of an authentic vibe at The Windward Bar and Lounge. Listen to the sounds of ska, rocksteady, reggae and dancehall, among other genres, from the best names in the music,” he said.
Hamilton experienced the remnants of East Kingston entertainment while a student at St George’s College. Bournemouth, a popular spot for dances, was still open, so too Globe and Rialto cinemas.
He is also aware of artistes and musicians who made it an influential radius in the early days of reggae, such as The Skatalites and Mystic Revelation of Rastafari. It inspired him to get into the music business as an entrepreneur and manager of acts like The Uprising Roots Band.
While he respects that history, Hamilton insists The Windward Bar and Lounge is more than just a menu and music.
“The area needs a venue like this for many reasons… if just from the historical value alone is more than enough. But it’s not just music being presented… it’s for creatives… food, art, photographs, films, games, entertainment on a whole,” he said.
