April 20, 2005 – The New Testament Church of God, Mount Zion presents an evening of gospel music with legendary gospel artists Papa San, The Righteous Riders along with local artists Harella Goodwin and United Vessel of Praise on Sunday, May 8, 2005, 7 p.m. at the Reichhold Center for the Arts.
In Jamaican culture, and the reggae music of the last two decades, few names shine as brightly as that of Papa San. In the early 80s, putting a highly rhythmic and rapped spin on the traditional melodic reggae groove of masters like Bob Marley, and others, Papa San was instrumental in forging what is known today as Dancehall music. Intricate, often improvisational, and always mesmerizing, Papa San's irresistible style of rhythm and wordplay became, and remains today, his trademark to millions of fans around the world.
In 1997, having what he describes as a supernatural visitation, San committed his life to Jesus Christ. Before giving his life to the Lord and being baptized in the faith, San was a popular figure in American rap circles, being credited as a pioneer by a host of rap superstars. Later connecting with fans of American hip-hop, San landed numerous videos in heavy rotation on MTV. After committing his life to the faith, the content of his songs changed to convey his newfound faith in the Gospel, but the mighty grooves, unforgettable hooks and mile-a-minute words and rhymes continued to follow on his numerous albums. More recently, he has appeared on gospel titan Kirk Franklin's 2002 platinum selling album, The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin, and has shared stages with a number of gospel and mainstream stars including Mary Mary, Trin-t-ee5:7, Donnie McClurkin, Hezekiah Walker and BeBe & CeCe Winans.
Raised by his grandmother in Spanish Town just outside of Jamaica's capital, Kingston, Papa San grew up in an environment where hard work and grinding poverty was the daily norm, but fervent revelry ruled the weekends. Spearheaded by any neighborhood resident with charisma and a potent enough sound system, music, dancing and singing prevailed well into the wee hours of Friday and Saturday nights. "As a child growing up, I always believed that if I just achieved certain material things that everything would be all right," says San. "As I became older, I had lots of success, lots of things, and tried many things, but never found the satisfaction, I was looking for." "I had given some bad messages in my songs, had been involved in firearms, and run ins with the police, and my two brothers were killed in street violence," he added. After those incidents, San further explained that his life began to take different turns down roads he never anticipated, and one day he began to read the Holy Bible, and was "ministered" by the Holy Spirit saying that he needed to change his life.
Though uncertain about the ramifications of his spiritual transformation would have on his life and musical career, San was thrilled to see what began taking place. With his numerous albums, awards, and his livelihood on the top 10 music charts, today Papa San is known for his eye opening gospel lyrics with, a reggae twist.
In addition to Papa San, the Righteous Riders will also perform live in concert at the Reichhold. As the genre of Gospel hip-hop music grows, one of the most recognizable names that comes to the forefront is that of The Righteous Riders. Based in Indianapolis, these emcees show tremendous growth and maturity. The Riders covers the musical spectrum from hardcore street vibes to Latin-flavored jams designed to make you get your serious head nod on. One of the greatest challenges any artists can face is their sophomore effort. However, the Riders have overcome that challenge and has recently released their sophomore album, "Internal Affairs." "Internal Affairs" is filled with R&B hip-hop flavor mixed with funk and jazz. Without a doubt, with all the hard work and dedication to producing this album, they have established a unique relationship with Jesus Christ. Thus, with the wonderful relationship, they know what works and what makes their music effective. Certainly their messages and tones of their love songs to Jesus are perfect in the setting this group has set. Diversity, intensity, hardcore lyrics, passion and straight up skills are what the Righteous Riders bring to the table.
Opening the evening, local artists Harella Goodwin out of St. Croix as well as United Vessel of Praise from St. Thomas will also perform.
Ticket prices for the event are $40, $30, & $20. Tickets are available at Mount Zion Academy, Colon's Barbershop, MIC Bookstore, A&F Bakery, Home Again-Red Hook, Bible Bookshop-Havensight, All Occasions Flower Shop and by calling Ticketing Services at the Reichhold at 693-1559.
For more information regarding the Papa San performance contact Mrs. Shirley Colon at 340-776-0110 or 340-779-2353 or Ms. Sandra Ventura at 473-8432.
