Labor Day weekend is over but in its wake there are memories worth a lifetime.
Kicking off some of the Labor Day festivities, Hot 97 left a Caribbean impression on Governor’s Island with their annual Hot 97 On Da Reggae and Soca Tip music festival.
Attendees boarded a ferry to experience the island featuring Caribbean foods, two fully stocked bars, clothing vendors, and plenty opportunities to grab epic photos with New York City as the backdrop.
Aside from the other attractions, all in attendance were undoubtedly there for the music. There was hardly a dull moment as high energy acts like Ding Dong and Kranium took the stage.
Ding Dong encouraged us all to strap on our dancing shoes as he blazed the stage with popular dances like “Wacky Dip.” The marrying of old and new was a consistent theme throughout the show as nearly every performer played oldies that are always goodies.
Bringing the most energy to the show was headliner Machel Montano backed by a full band and gorgeous background dancers. Performing hits like “Like Ah Boss,” the feel to fete was hypnotizing as the crowd danced and sang along with Soca artist.
Montano increased the energy when fellow soca artist, Angela Hunte, joined him on stage to perform “Party Done.” He also revealed to the crowd that new music is available on iTunes featuring Sean Paul and Major Lazer.
Hot 97’s On Da Reggae and Soca Tip was sponsored by MetroPlus and Nutrament; attendees took photos with “Fuel Your Now” towels that they later waved along with their fans during the musical acts.
Other performers included Collie Buddz, Barrington Levy, Gyptian, Konshens and Kresha Turner including a guest appearance from Christopher Martin. Brooklyn’s own Blacka Di Danca also forged a space for him on stage as he performed alongside Kresha Turner and Collie Buddz.
