By Vinette K. Pryce

Chicago, Illinois -- “Yes indeed!” emcee Tommy Cowan would agree the 14th annual African-Caribbean International Festival of Life ended on a positive Tuesday after five days of cultural and spiritual presentations staged at Chicago’s Washington Park during the Jul. 4th holiday period. Headlined each evening by Maxi Priest, Beenie Man, Barrington Levy, Tito Jackson, Letoya and Regina Belle, daily line-up also spotlighted spectacular performances by Baby Cham, Leon, Aswad Gregory and the annual Trinidad & Tobago favorite Calypso Rose.

Recently returned from Germany where she performed and celebrated T&T’s entry to World Cup Soccer, Calypso Rose arrived at the festival she has consistently engaged from the beginning years that Ephraim Martin decided on a prolonged Independence Day celebration.
“I recorded a song in tribute to the festival and brought it along to celebrate 14 years of Caribbean festivities,” Calypso Rose said.

The song titled “Let’s Go” played throughout the five days and is compiled on her latest CD with favorites “Ju Ju Warrior,” “Gi Me More Tempo,” “Fire In Mi Wire,” and “Tanty Rose In Town.”
Performing on the same bill as top r&b, reggae, pop and dancehall recorders Calypso Rose seemed the crowd pleaser throughout autograph signings, CD sales and meet and greet sessions.

Thousands poured into the park from four entrances at 55th & Cottage, 55th & Ellis, 58th & Maryland and 58th & South Cottage Grove Ave. Billed as a family attraction, more than 100 artists delivered non-stop entertainment. From St, John’s, Virgin Islands, Inner Visions represented their signature brand that connected with crowds packed in front of the main stage. Belle reprised some of the smooth jazz and r&b songs that launched her career that debuted with the “Show Me” CD release.

Belle, the mother of five children found that her audience never stopped singing her hits and echoed every chorus through “Make It Like It Was,” and the winning single “Show me.”
A duet of “A Brand New World” hailed jazz legend Nancy Wilson whom she graciously acknowledged as the singer that “tore up” the track. She explained that after seeing Wilson sing the song at New York’s jazz club, the Blue Note she decided the song was “done.” However in tribute to Wilson she collaborated with Marcus Wilson to remind audiences of the melodious recording.

The crowd did not mind that she performed without backup to tracks. Alone she seemed worthier than artists who performed with an entourage. On a night when Beenie Man headlined, he injected energy and style dancing to a discography that included “Wickedest Slam,” “Dancehall Queen,” and borrowed from the songbook Shabba Ranks wrote to deliver “Cyaan Dun,” and “X-Rated.” Backed by Ranks’ former band The Ruff Kutt, the soon-to-be wed dancehall icon proved another festival favorite. But there were no losers. No reason to shout down any talent. From Jewish deejay Benny Bwoy, Michael Jackson’s big brother Tito, movie actor/singer Leon, former Destinys Child LeToya local Chicago talent Gregory to the closing notes delivered by Barrington Levy, the Festival of Life proved the best Chicago attraction throughout the July 4th holiday.

With lesser known names performing on a second stage, Carlene Davis delivered six solid gospel performances she described as her “ministry for Jesus.” “Jesus is my fortress,” she said as she talked about her recovery from cancer. She advised patrons to stand firm and “Be Strong” whenever adversities threaten. Backed by two lively singers who danced a repertoire, Davis also performed a filler-set on the main stage where she delivered more of her current gospel brand. “Rock Me, Rock Me Jesus,” and “Can Can” were standouts. Introduced by her spouse and returning Reggae Sunsplash festival emcee Tommy Cowan, the former secular singer introduced her latest CD as well as gave praise to her faith.

For many, the festival was the place to shop for unique items, crafts, clothes, Chrysler cars, enjoy some tasty cuisine and celebrate their independence from work and other daily commitments. “This year was special because it means we have survived 14 years, and the fact rain did not hinder vendors from making sales as it has in recent years,” founder Martin said.
Also the founder of the International Reggae & World Music Awards, Martin said his 26th annual tribute to music makers will return to New York’s, Harlem, Apollo Theatre next year on May. 7.