Celebration Of Life Concert

Metropolitan Black Police Association

As usual we were running on BP time so, everything was in full swing by the time we were shown to our seats…. It was a fantastic night (Oct 17) at the Southbank with artists such as Peter Hunnigale, Pearl of Africa Children's Choir, Nicholas Brancker, Tawiah, Alex Wilson, Bishi, Roachford and headliner Alison Hinds. Hosted by Curtis Walker, he kept the audience entertained in between acts especially with his interpretation of a 'Bajan accent' then saying to Hetty May Bailey (the Sign Language Interpreter) 'I bet you can't sign that' which, had them in stitches.

Roachford set the place alight particularly with his song 'Naked Without You' which he dedicated to this mother. When Alison Hinds hit the stage, she took the roof off and brought a Carnival atmosphere to the Festival Hall. She had everyone out of their seats dancing and waving (especially the ladies) with hits such as 'Roll It Gal' in which she praised women for their independence and 'Ladies Rule' where, again she praised women, this time for having their own cars, homes, men and hair!

The artists were accompanied by two very talented bands. The Life Force Band who did a month of Friday shows at the Vortex Jazz Club earlier this year playing host to people such as Don-E, Elizabeth Troy and Imaani. Other distinguished artists who have preformed with the band include Caron Wheeler, The London Community Gospel Choir and Janet Kay. Joining the Life Force Band was the Urban Soul Orchestra who has recorded and performed alongside high profile artists such as Gabrielle, Take That and Jay-Z. Their projects for this year includes an album release for Maxi Priest.

A memorable evening was had by all… the Celebration of Life Concert is part of the Black Police Association's (BPA) anti-violence initiative known as 'Revival'. Its aim is to bring together everyone in the community through music and using it as a positive step to start reducing street related violence and drug crime because 'we all have a role to play in the support and nurture of our young people'…. 'Stop the Killing - Start the healing'! The next BPA concert will be 16 October 2009. I dare you to miss it.

By Vennette Pellius (Contributor, G MaG)