Kingston hotspot, Usain Bolt Tracks and Records is known not only for being a snazzy sports bar but also for its novel twists on Jamaican cuisine. Owners Kingston Live Entertainment group has even gone a step further by adding new meaning to "Records", as the lounge hosts one of the most supported musical experience in the city, Behind The Screen Series.
BTSS offers a live music experience in an intimate environment where some of the biggest names in Jamaican music, both veterans and new comers, perform for a one hour special. Since its inception Sizzla Kalonji, Tarrus Riley, Tifa, Ninja Man, Beenie Man, Queen Ifrica, Wayne Wonder and No-Maddz to name a few, have headlined the series.
It began in July 2012 as a partnership between UBTandR, Jamaican music maven Solid Agency and beverage company Guinness to run in tandem with the country's 50th anniversary festivities. The increasing popularity of the Tuesday night live show however resulted in the perpetuation of the series, originally slated to end after 12 weeks.
On several nights the turn out has been so massive that patrons had to be turned away when the lounge's capacity was exceeded. Operations manager of Solid Agency Marlon Burke implored, "If persons want to come out to see their artistes then they need to come out early," in anticipation of crammed nights.
The series proves that in the right setting, good food and live music will make for a successful recipe. With the summer season here, the organizers have even more in store for fans. International Reggae artiste Jah Cure is billed to headline the series next. It has been a while since Jamaican fans have seen Jah Cure perform live. With anticipations high, as one can imagine, this staging of the series should also see a well supported night. Cocoa Tea, L.U.S.T and Tanya Stephens will follow.
For updates on the series visit Usain Bolt's Tracks and Records Facebook or Twitter pages.