Steel Expressions 2024: A Golden Celebration of Talent and Culture

On Saturday, December 28, 2024, the Arnos Vale Stadium came alive with the vibrant sounds of Steel Expressions: Golden Empire. In its 13th year, the event proved why it has become one of St. Vincent and the Grenadines' most anticipated year-end festivities. Organised by RS Productions, this year's theme, "Golden Empire," promised a night of excellence and extravagance—and it delivered beyond expectations. In the audience, were other local artists such as Luta MacIntosh, Chad Durrant, Hayden Billingy (who on the same day announced winning the Hollywood Indie Film Critics Awards 2024 for his shot film and music video, Shout it Out) and Janelle Alexander. Among the audience also were persons from the Prime Ministerial Advisory Council on Youth.

A First-Time Experience Like No Other

As a first-time attendee, I was privileged to be in the VIP private booth, which offered not only an elevated view but also an enhanced experience of the event's atmosphere. The setup was nothing short of spectacular: stunning lighting, impeccable sound, and a stage design that reflected the event's golden theme. The night began on time, setting the tone for a well-organised and thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Performances That Stole the Show

The lineup was a perfect blend of seasoned icons, local talents, and emerging stars, all contributing to a rich musical tapestry. Rodney Small, the event coordinator and steelpan virtuoso, set the stage ablaze with his exceptional talent and passion. His performance was a reminder of why Steel Expressions remains a beacon for showcasing Caribbean artistry.

Danielle Veira’s Vocal Range: Danielle Veira delivered a powerful performance, effortlessly hitting high notes with incredible strength and precision. Her vocal range and stage presence were made effortlessly, leaving no doubt about her exceptional talent.

Baron’s Surprising Energy: The legendary Baron’s performance was a standout moment. Initially escorted on stage, I assumed his segment would be brief. However, he defied expectations with an energetic and captivating performance that showcased his enduring stage presence, a sharp suit, and a voice as vibrant as ever. The audience sang along enthusiastically, proving his timeless appeal.

Jaron Nurse’s Gospel Magic: A personal favourite of mine, and a supporter of JSR Communications, Jaron Nurse brought the house down with his powerful gospel melodies. As he entered the stage, Jaron caused a roar of cheer from the crowd. His ability to connect with the audience and deliver an inspiring performance left a lasting impression. Jaron's song "Caribbean Christian" had the crowds "dancing in the blood". The appropriateness of the song "Tell Somebody Bout Jesus", spoke to rising crime and other miscreant activities, advising those who know about the Lord, to tell someone else about him.

Andy Cruickshank’s Smooth Serenade: Andy’s commanding presence, seated at his keyboard, wowed the audience, particularly the women. His smooth voice and emotive delivery added a layer of elegance to the evening’s performances.

Rodney Small’s Brilliance and Festive Style: Rodney Small’s performances not only showcased his unmatched brilliance on the steel pan but also highlighted his vibrant and diverse wardrobe. Each outfit reflected the festive energy of the event, adding a visual flair to the event coordinator’s uplifting performance.

The Rising Stars: The local children who performed demonstrated the depth of Vincentian talent. A teenage performer stood out with her rendition of Alicia Keys’ "No One." The young lady owned the song with her unique interpretation, leaving the audience in awe. Her striking voice makes her a memorable highlight.

A Celebration of Talent and Unity

The audience was fully engaged throughout the night, cheering, singing along, and celebrating the performers. It was clear that everyone in attendance had a fantastic time. Beyond the entertainment, the event served as a powerful reminder of the incredible talent that exists in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Final Thoughts

Steel Expressions 2024 not only met but exceeded my expectations. From its punctual start to the exceptional performances, it was a testament to the organisers' dedication and the island’s rich cultural heritage. As I left the stadium, one thought stayed with me: Vincentians are incredibly talented people who deserve more opportunities for exposure.

If you’ve never attended Steel Expressions, make it a priority in the future. It’s more than just an event; it’s a celebration of legacy, unity, and the vibrant spirit of our people. This year’s "Golden Empire" truly lived up to its name, leaving attendees with golden memories to treasure for years to come. As we move forward in 2025, let’s remember a line that Rodney Small repeated many times throughout the event; Let’s love one another.

Happy New Year 2025 everyone!