“I’ve never performed in Jamaica before, this is my first time.” Yes, Shatta Wale, and you had to give it your all for this.
Did Shatta Wale’s performance impress the motherland? Let’s explore.
The self-acclaimed Dancehall King, Charles Nii Armah Mensah, better known as Shatta Wale, finally fulfilled a long-held dream by performing at the Freedom Street Concert headlined by the legendary Vybz Kartel. This was a significant milestone for Shatta, who had always aspired to share the stage with his idol. Shatta Wale performed, importantly, as a headliner and not as a curtain raiser, as alluded to by some.
Shatta Wale’s performance was highly anticipated, especially after Stonebwoy’s comments during a previous interview. It was his debut performance in Jamaica, a fact that many people were unaware of.
Vybz Kartel referred to Shatta as the “Africa giant.” Let’s assume he didn’t fully grasp the nuances of the title and move past that. Shatta began his set with “MANSA MUSA” featuring Vybz Kartel, a fitting choice given the context. However, he then transitioned to Afrobeats, performing his verse on Beyoncé’s “ALREADY.”
While the concert was organized by a Jamaican dancehall artist, it’s important to remember that dancehall is a deeply rooted and widely embraced genre in Jamaica. Therefore, a dancehall legend’s concert would likely attract a predominantly dancehall-oriented audience.
One could argue that West African dancehall artists, including Stonebwoy and Shatta Wale, have increasingly leaned towards Afrobeats. However, the Freedom Street Concert provided Shatta Wale with the perfect platform to showcase his dancehall prowess to a Jamaican audience.
Shatta Wale’s choice of songs could be seen as an attempt to introduce Jamaicans to Afrobeats, but given the context, a more dancehall-focused set might have been more impactful.
In conclusion, Shatta Wale delivered a respectable performance. However, some felt he could have further emphasized his “Dancehall King” persona. There were varying opinions on his setlist and stage presence.
Nevertheless, Shatta Wale’s debut performance in Jamaica is a significant milestone in his career. He has achieved a long-held goal and demonstrated his global reach. Congratulations, Shatta Wale, for living your dream of performing with the Worl’ Boss. If you ever get the opportunity again, prove to the world why you call yourself the Dancehall King.
By: Cyril Senason Anani
Source:
3news.com
Source link
