The island of St. Lucia is set for a musical jazz explosion this weekend as it opens its 18th edition of the St. Lucia Jazz Festival, May 2-10. With British Grammy-winning stars Amy Winehouse and Estelle recently added to a stellar line-up of musical greats, including Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, James Ingram and Bebe Williams, this event is a big draw for the traveling public. The event helps boost St. Lucia's music industry, its Creole culture and the island's appeal in the international marketplace. Set to perform on Pigeon Island's main stage on Thursday, May 7 will be Jamaica's Original Wailers, the former reggae band of Bob Marley; Grammay winner Angelique Kidjo from Benin; and the popular French Antillean group, Kassav. On Friday, May 8, Amy Winehouse , KC and the Sunshine Band and local singer Shayne Ross have been confirmed. Saturday's line-up features the legendary George Duke who will team with Grammy winners Bebe Winans and James Ingram as well as Jeffrey Osborne and Teddyson John. Also on Saturday's program are Boo Hinkson, Michel Aubertin, Estelle and Michael McDonald. George Duke returns on Sunday to support performances by Grammy winners Patti LaBelle and Chaka Khan as well as local singing sensation Nicole David. The UK-based Fate Sister; a local Pan Jazz band with Allison Marquis; famous American rock band Chicago; and reggae sensation Beres Hammond complete the line-up. Slated for the indoor venue at Gaiety on Rodney Bay on Tuesday May 5 are Jamaica's Monty Alexander Jazz and Roots, as well as a Dean Fraser ensemble. On Wednesday, May 6th, the Luther Francois and Emerson Nurse Quintet from St. Lucia as well as Barbara Cadet and Frenchman Khalid Kouhen will take center stage. St. Lucia is certainly a well-known charter destination, but this is a unique opportunity to be exposed to some of the best music and musicianship in the world. If you have chartered to St. Lucia, let us hear about your experience! - Donna
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