THE EDITOR, Sir:
AT THE recent press conference held at the Hilton Kingston, the promoters of Sting found it appropriate to blame Bounti Killa among others for the fiasco that took place instead of themselves. Which entertainer in their right mind would want to face an irate crowd such as the one on Boxing Day? A similar incident took place at Heineken Heatwave, no one saw it fit to blame 50 Cents for refraining to perform until calm was restored and his safety could be guaranteed. This incident squarely lies at the feet of the promoter.
I do remember the publicist of Sting, Mr. Dennis Howard, proudly declaring that no bottles will be available at the venue. What ever happened to that idea? Mr. Laing, your response about patrons storming the bars is totally unacceptable. After doing this show for over twenty-odd years Sting should know about crowd control and what to expect at this event.
HOW DID THE GUNS GET THERE
As for the gun salutes being heard throughout the night, if it was being done by the police force I have never witnessed gunshots being fired in a stampede and patrons stand at attention and twiddle their thumbs. And if others were firing the shots, how did they get guns into the venue? Licensed or unlicensed?
The promoters have nurtured this kind of behaviour by patrons and artistes for a number of years now and it is time to bring back some respect to the music. Dancehall music has made great strides for 2003. I am a great fan of reggae music in all its forms and hate to see individuals who are in it to "big up themselves" lead the people astray.
I am, etc.,
REGGAE FAN
Semiyah93@hotmail.com
Via Go-Jamaica
