10 Sophia Findlay/Gleaner Writer TORONTO: AFTER DELIVERING a show to hundreds of patrons at The Rose Theatre’s Brampton On Stage platform on November 23, Kirk Diamond is satisfied that Canadabased reggae artistes can attract the numbers and provide stellar performances as do their counterparts from Jamaica and elsewhere. Diamond performed with his band, The Movement of Ahryel, and self-declared soul rebel singer Ammoye. “I’m happy to have solidified the fact that we are doing the work and can do it well, so artistes shouldn’t have to always be flown in from Jamaica. Now, respect can be given to us as I feel we have executed what we started out to do … Someone must speak from that perspective because there are about 15 million Jamaicans outside of Jamaica’s three million, and we can attract large audiences as well on our own merit,”he stated in a telephone interview from Miami. Born Kirk Douglas in Spanish Town, Jamaica, a 10-year old Diamond emigrated to Canada with his family in 1994. His accolades are as impressive as his artistry. A six-time Juno Award nominee since earning his first win in 2018 -he has won three times. This was followed by a second for his hit single “Reggae Party” in 2023, and most recently his third Juno win in 2024 for his début album, DREAD. Released on October 6, 2023, the album has solidified Diamond’s place as a leader in the genre. It features tracks like “Bring It Good,” done with Tiffanie Malvo – which gained prominence as part of the drama film When Morning Comes – and his latest single Deh Yah (unveiled on October 15 of this year) Diamond’s work embodies cultural adaptation, identity and self-expression, further expanding his artistic repertoire. But Diamond’s contributions extend far beyond music. His impact in entertainment and culture has been formally recognised by the City of Brampton, where he resides. In fact, just before he hit the stage, he was recognised by that city’s members of parliament Graham McGregor and Charmaine Williams. Also, in a historic tribute, a park was named in his honour in 2022, making him the only living reggae artiste to receive such a distinction. Adding to his list of accomplishments, he was named a Distinguished Alumni by the Dufferin Peel School Board and received the 2020 International Vigor Award, along with The Impact Award for his influence in the arts. It was no surprise, therefore that the Balmoral Middle School choir of students joined him on stage to sing along to “Greater”. Currently, he is on a global tour promoting DREAD, captivating audiences with his unique blend of reggae rhythms and socially conscious themes. The 40-year-old Diamond continues to inspire through his music which serves as both a rallying cry and a celebration, echoing the universal themes of love and inclusivity. Reggae artiste spreads unity and love Kirk Diamond in concert. Kirk Diamond CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS - Kirk Diamond promotes latest album on global tour THE MONTHLY GLEANER | DECEMBER 12 - JANUARY 11, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS
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