“Music is the soundtrack of life and that’s where I live – I’m always writing,” says Bob Andy.
Since the iconic Songbook was released in 1972, Bob Andy has written and recorded nine albums, and has continued to pen original songs for other artistes, including most recently, Luciano and Marcia Griffiths. While prior to 1972, Andy had already catapulted his way to stardom courtesy of his exceptional songwriting and singing abilities. It is therefore not surprising that over the years, in excess of 60 Jamaican and international artistes have covered Andy’s work.
“I have never stopped writing,” says Bob. “Vintage is a category I reject. Music is the soundtrack of life and that’s where I live. I am always writing.”
The many Andy originals written over the last 50 years will be celebrated and explored by over 30 current and legendary artistes across the genres of jazz, acoustic and reggae orchestra in a first-time event – Bob Andy Unplugged: Tribute to the Songwriter tonight, October 28 at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium, Jamaica College, Hope Road.
Even tracks which received a warm reception abroad – such as the UK hit single Honey and the new classic Zion, will be heard by many in the audience for the very first time.
The performers will include, Myrna Hague, Kathy Brown, Cezar, Mutabaruka, Della Manley, Georgia Henry, Soul 4 Soul, Freddie McGregor, Ken Boothe, Big Youth, Duane Stephenson, John Holt, Luciano, Marcia Griffiths, Mystic Revelation of Rastafari, Nadine Sutherland, Pam Hall, Protoje, Sean Michael Harris, Sharon Tucker, Suzanne Couch, Tony Rebel and more. While the other musical arrangers will be: Ibo Cooper, Desi Jones, Peter Ashbourne and Sean Michael Harris.
The concert which is slated to begin at 9 p.m. will also be streamed live online at Andy’s official Facebook fanpage, www.facebook.com/BobAndyMusic.
In addition, following the concert, a Merritone party which is included in the concert admission price will be held on site.
Tickets for Bob Andy Unplugged can be purchased at: Suzie’s Bakery (Southdale Plaza), Music Mart (Twin Gates Plaza), Copy Cat (Loshusan Plaza, Barbican), JC Old Boys Association Office (Jamaica College, Old Hope Road).
The tribute concert is the collaborative effort of the Friends of Bob Andy – artistes, companies and other individuals. The Bob Andy Song Foundation has been established to handle Bob’s current and future medical expenses as well as other charitable endeavours. All proceeds from the Bob Andy Unplugged concert benefit Bob Andy’s medical care and recovery and the Foundation’s work to nurture and inspire young songwriters.