Gregory Isaacs Foundation officially launched

Various artistes from around the world have performed at a tribute concert in honor of the late Gregory Isaacs at the Zoroastrian Centre in London. The lineup of artistes included Kenyan superstar Kevin Waire aka Wyre, Black Prophet, Japanese saxophonist, Megumi Mesaku aka Miss Megoo; Susan Cadogan, Al Capone, Trinity and Winston Francis.

The night was an evening of music and fashion with the launch of a limited edition of Gabicci, the late Gregory Isaacs’ favorite brand. In addition to that, there was a fashion show by Kenyan designer Evans of Showing My Love fame. Also in attendance was the Jamaican High Commissioner to the U.K, H.E Seth George Ramocan.

The Gregory Isaacs Foundation UK/EU which hosted the event used the occasion to launch two more branches in Ghana and Kenya with the two country directors present. Ghana was represented by Ahuma Bosco Ocansey who was accompanied by his wife, Naa Djama Kpobi and Kenya was represented by Wyre who is the country director for Kenya. Patrick Matambanadzo of Zimbabwe and Director and Advisor for Africa was also in attendance with Kirsten Uhl of Germany representing the foundation in the E.U.

The highlight of the evening was performances by Glenny and the Rude Cut band from Holland paying special tribute to the Gregory Isaacs the “Cool Ruler.” Both Black Prophet and Wyre who were backed by the Rude Cut band who brought the roof down with their unique style of reggae which had songs heavily laden with lyrics in their local languages.

According to Linda Isaacs, wife of the late Gregory Isaacs, the event was both to officially launch the Gregory Isaacs Foundation in Ghana and Kenya and also pay a fitting tribute to the memory of one of the greatest love song singers in reggae. She said, “I am very grateful for all who supported to make the event a memorable one and we need to remember Gregory for his music and the love he sought to spread.”

Another feature of the night was the launch of the 21 Gun Salute, a compilation of songs produced veteran producer Tony Owen which features songs by Black Prophet, Macka B, Mighty Diamonds, Anthony B and others. The compilation is available on all digital stores worldwide.

Also in attendance was Sir Lloyd Coxsone of the Outer National Sound System whose selection of vintage tunes set the tone for a wonderful night.

The Gregory Isaacs Foundation in Ghana is expected to be involved in a number of activities ranging from providing music education to the youth and promoting the music and works of Gregory Isaacs with a show in honor of Gregory planned for July 2010 in Ghana.

According to the Country Director for Ghana, Ahuma Bosco Ocansey aka Daddy Bosco, “The Foundation will work in Ghana to immortalize the name of Gregory Isaacs through working with youth in music and undertaking other charity works.”

(Source: Ahuma Bosco Ocansey)