By Eddie J. Grant,
Freelance Writer
Wayne Wonder and Buju Banton
TORONTO: A SHOW, HELD recently at the Luxor Banquet Hall, featuring headliners Buju Banton and Wayne Wonder got off to a late start. But, while some fans complained about the lateness, others accepted it as the norm for reggae shows these days.
However, for the hundreds of fans in attendance, it was worth the wait, as dancehall artiste Buju Banton and singer Wayne Wonder had the fans rocking.
Wonder, the first of the headliners, has developed into a fine all-round singer. And he has maintained the level of stage professionalism that endears fans to him since he gave his first Toronto performance at Concert Hall several years ago.
He went on stage at 2:30 a.m. and performed for half an hour. During that time, he treated the audience to several of his popular songs, including Forever Young, Baby You And I, Live And Learn, Blazing and several others. He gave a pleasing performance and was loudly cheered by members of the audience.
At the mention of his name Buju Banton, the mainly dancehall fans into ecstasy. And when he walked on stage just after 3:00 a.m., the venue was in darkness. Fireworks then heralded his arrival, which caught the fans by surprise as they struggled to get to the stage to be near their idol. Banton wasted no time in getting into his act, as the show was scheduled to end at 3:30 a.m. But he spent one hour, much to the delight of the crowd.
His opening song, and one of his popular hits, Destiny, got an immediate reaction from the screaming fans. This he followed with Not An Easy Road, Mighty Dread, Love Sponge, Over Hills and Valley, Til Shiloh and Murderer.
The disappointment of the night was the fact that Gregory 'The Cool Ruler' Isaacs, who was schedule to appear did not, because of what the promoters said were immigration problems. Of course that explanation did not go down well with the patrons.
The non-appearance of Isaacs served to enhance the career of a Toronto singer, Mr. Cooper, who has been described as that city's Gregory Isaacs. Mr. Cooper was called upon at the last minute to substitute for Isaacs.
Backed by Hi Energy Band, this certainly was one of his best performances, and one that earned him an encore. Another performer was Len Hammond, whose current single, Mix Up Mood, went over very well with the fans. He was among several other Toronto artistes who were billed to appear for the first time.
Overall, it was a good concert, with tight security.
