Bring Back the Love: A Heartfelt Tribute to Desi Jones
The vibrant rhythms of Jamaica will once again echo through the halls of the Courtleigh Auditorium in New Kingston on Saturday, April 26, as the fourth edition of the beloved Bring Back the Love cabaret presentation takes center stage. This year, the event will pay special tribute to the late Desi Jones, a cherished musical director and drummer whose sudden passing in 2024 left a profound impact on the entertainment community.
Desi Jones was not just a musician; he was a cornerstone of Jamaica’s rich musical heritage. His journey began long before he hit his teenage years, starting with the recorder and congas. Eventually, he found his true calling on the drum set, even showcasing his talents on the trombone with the Salvation Army band. In 1976, he joined the Sonny Bradshaw Seven, where he honed his craft through countless performances across various venues. By 1980, he became a founding member of the reggae group Chalice, contributing to at least seven albums that showcased the band’s unique sound.
His influence extended beyond performance; Desi authored The Art Of Reggae Drumming, recognized as the world’s first instructional book on reggae drumming, released in 1983. His contributions to music were monumental, and his band, Skool, toured extensively, collaborating with legends like Jimmy Cliff, Barrington Levy, and Marcia Griffiths. They even served as the house band for the renowned Reggae Sunsplash tours in the USA and Japan.
Promoters LDC Enterprises expressed their sorrow over Desi’s passing, stating, “Desi was a monumental figure in the Bring Back the Love series, and, as with everyone, his passing is a massive loss to us. We take great pride in honouring him and his tremendous legacy, both to this event and to music as a whole.”
This year’s event promises an exciting lineup of both Jamaican and international performers. The vivacious diva Myrna Hague will return as a special guest, along with singer-instrumentalist Harold Davis and the JUNO Award-nominated Canadian group Jason Wilson and Ashara. Each artist will pay homage to Desi through their performances, ensuring his spirit resonates throughout the evening. The ever-charismatic Fae Ellington will take on her usual role as the entertaining MC, guiding the audience through the night.
Attendees can look forward to the award-winning Jason Wilson’s Ashara band, known for their unique fusion of Scottish folk, global roots, and reggae. Wilson’s storytelling prowess shines through his poetic lyrics and captivating imagery, connecting his present life to his family’s distant past. His stellar vocals and skill on the acoustic guitar and piano promise to be a highlight of the evening.
The event is under the patronage of former Prime Minister P.J. Patterson and will kick off with a sumptuous cocktail segment at 7 p.m., followed by the show starting promptly at 8 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the MCCAM Child Care Development Centre, which has been providing educational services to special-needs children since 1986.
As the community gathers to celebrate Desi Jones’ legacy, one can’t help but wonder: how will the rhythms of his life continue to inspire future generations of musicians? The night promises not just entertainment but a heartfelt reminder of the power of music to unite and uplift.
