The Oyé Touring & Trading Launch Event
The Mighty Diamonds (JAMAICA)

The Mighty Diamonds, Donald “Tabby” Shaw, Fitzroy ”Bunny” Simpson and Lloyd “ Judge” Ferguson formed in 1969 in the Trenchtown area of Kingston, Jamaica and for the past 32 years have been entertaining and educating the world with their sweet harmonies and conscious lyrics.

They quickly became known as the young group with the Motown sound with their soulful harmonies and polished
performances. They first hit singles “Country Living” and
“Hey Girl” were recorded on the Channel One label.

Their debut album “Right Time”, released on the Virgin label has become a classic. This is an album that belongs in every serious reggae collection. “Right Time’ is probably their most requested song when they perform.

"Pass the Kouchie” also became an international hit when
first released and then again when it was covered by the “Musical Youth” and released as “Pass the Dutchie”.

Tabby, Bunny and Judge have produced over 40 albums
in their long career and it would be hard to select just one
album as a favourite but if I were asked to pick the definite Mighty Diamonds album I would have to say “Deeper Roots”. This album proves that the Mighty Diamonds are truly the best in the business.

The trio has toured the world extensively and has a
strong following in Europe and Japan as well as in the US.
In Jamaica they are forever loved, performing many times
at Reggae Sunsplash to the delight of all in attendance.

The Mighty Diamonds are remarkable for the fact that the
three founding members have remained together, despite the ever-changing and cutthroat music business, for 32 years - and counting!

The Diamonds find strength and inspiration in their faith and their love of Jah. Their message is one of unity, love and at times, rebellion in the face of injustice.

For more visit: www.mightydiamonds.com

Odemba OK Jazz All-Stars (DR CONGO)

Led and conducted by guitarist and living legend ‘Dizzy Mandjeku’ who was an original member of Franco’s
OK Jazz, this magnificent 12 piece band are the original exponents of smooth big band ‘Franco style’ Congolese Rumba. Other greats in the All-star line up include Malage De Lugendo, Nana and Baniel, Dele Pedro, and veteran
Seigneur Lokombe all of whom are legends in their own right.

Although this form of music was at its height in the 60s and 70s it is anything but old fashioned. In fact the music is so dominated by driving bass lines, amazing horn sections, powerful voices, and melodic guitar rifts that it appeals to
all people of all ages and most of all it makes people dance like they have never danced before!

Odemba’s Concerts at the Sallis Benney Theatre in Brighton in 2007 won an award for the best gig that year and Odemba’s performances at the Africa Oyé festival in Liverpool in 2007 and 2008 were unforgettable to anyone
who witnessed them.

Congo’s finest Odemba OK Jazz All Stars -
keeping the music and spirit of Franco and OK Jazz alive!

Freddie McGregor (JAMAICA)

When one refers to classic reggae entertainers, Freddie McGregor comes to the forefront, a household name
for music lovers of the Diaspora. As an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, producer extraordinaire, Freddie has achieved a remarkable 40 year tenure in the music business and is considered Jamaica's most consistent recording artist elevating his status to Jamaica's supreme reggae ambassador.

For more visit: www.freddiemcgregor.com
Or: www.myspace.com/freddiemcgregor