Saint Lucia Jazz 2009 was a resounding success with record numbers attending the grand finale on Sunday to witness performances from Lovers Rock legend Beres Hammond, big band Chicago, Patti Labelle, Chaka Khan and Nicole David with George Duke, Allison Marquis and Luther Francois and local R&B sensation Shayne Ross who performed all original music from his upcoming debut album due out in September.

Despite the forced cancellation of the first main-stage show at Pigeon Island, the week-long Festival managed to achieve its primary objective of attracting visitors to Saint Lucia during a traditionally slow period.

Friday’s performers included Dutch acoustic guitarist Mattagna (Ma-Tan-Ya) Bradley, KC and the Sunshine Band, Amy Winehouse and France-based zouk band Kassav who thrilled the hundreds who flocked the venue with hit after hit, right through Saturday morning! Saturday’s show started and ended with Saint Lucian artistes. US-based Michel Aubertin accompanied by Saint Lucian composer Barbara Cadet, delivered his original music which embraced all genres, including opera! He was followed by yet another local icon, Ronald ‘Boo’ Hinkson who warmed things up for Estelle and Michael McDonald.

The day ended on a high with the George Duke collaboration of James Ingram, Bebe Winans, Jeffery Osborne and local Soca artiste Teddyson ‘TJ’ John – belting out the Whitehead Brothers’ ‘Ain’t No Stoppin Us Now’. How apt!

See you next year!