Jannine Richards (left), Patrick Clunis, Charmaine Lawson and Junett Robinson were making the most of the moment.- Peta-Gaye Clacha/Staff Photographer

The 11th renewal of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival will witness a wealth of talent, music and excitement in Montego Bay. It will be held from Thursday, January 24, 2008, for three nights.

Last week Thursday's launch at the The Providence in Manhattan, New York, was abuzz with anticipation as announcements of the upcoming line-up were made. The artistes include: Diana Ross, Anita Baker, Beres Hammond, Marjorie Whylie and Billy Ocean.

Producer Walter Elmore assured the gathering that it will be one of the best to date.

"We have gone all out to ensure an incredibly entertaining line up. We have also done more work on the venue and the plans we have will make every part of the show seamless and exciting," Mr. Elmore said.

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett had high praises for the event that he said had earned a reputation for being one of the greatest musical events in the Caribbean.

Main sponsor for the festival is Olint Corporation.

Walter Elmore (right), president, Turnkey Productions, greets Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and the Jamaica Tourist Board's Carrole Brady at the launch of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival at the Providence Lounge in Manhattan, New York. - Contributed