JAZZ & BLUES 2021

Richie Stephens expressed his joy at being
able to host the tour as it served as a reminder
of the lushness of the island and of the country’s
rich and varied culture. “It was a revealing and
captivating experience. I learnt so much. The visit
to Appleton Estate was an education. The estate is
really a community which in addition to the distillery
has a school for the children of staff as well as a housing
complex for staff. The highlight of the visit was the
privilege of meeting the illustrious Joy Spence, the only
female master blender in the world.”
Every stop had its individual appeal. For instance, Fern
Gully, he learnt, had over 300 species of ferns and before
it was transformed into a dry river bed had been one of
the eight rivers of Ocho Rios. “There is no doubt that
the Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival will be a fitting
platform from which to share the attractions which
make our country a favourite destination for tourists
the world over”, he said.
Richie Stephens is one of the favoured
performers who has performed on the
JJ&B stage repeatedly and is looking
forward to his first virtual presentation.
“As artistes we have to learn to adjust
to working on the virtual stage and
to be as professional as when on the
physical stage.
It is a great opportunity
for me and I am happy
to help ‘Bring the
magic Back’.”
WATCH VIDEO FOR MORE INFORMATION
47