The atmosphere last week Friday at the corner of Marcus Garvey Drive and Bell Road was festive as Tuff Gong International celebrated the recent Grammy awards for Ziggy Marley’s Family Time and Stephen Marley’s Mind Control (Acoustic) albums. A number of musicians, fans and media representatives turned out for the celebration, however, guests had been advised that neither Ziggy nor Stephen would be present.

Guitarist Rannoy Gordon and percussionists Sticky Thompson, Bongo Herman and Denver Smith were among those representing the collaborators on the award-winning albums. Tuff Gong engineers Gregory Morris and Roland McDermott were also in attendance. The likes of Capleton and Tamlins were also spotted throughout the evening.

Sharon Marley, a member of the Melody Makers, appeared on behalf of the Marley siblings. She could be seen dancing vibrantly to the sounds of the roots reggae music that permeated the air.

The recently-launched Berhane Selassie Art Gallery was also open for viewing and artist Junior Moore spent some time speaking with persons about his paintings.

The event was sponsored by Diageo, whose Learning for Life project partnered with Tuff Gong to provide hands-on training for young people pursuing careers in entertainment. One such intern, Ikanji, performed in the afternoon.