On Wednesday, June 4, Ocean Spray announced Jamaican reggae sensation and Male Vocalist of the Year Tarrus Riley as their official spokesperson for the new local advertising campaign.

The launch took place at the Grogge Shoppe, Devon House and featured performances by Dean Fraser and Tarrus Riley. MCs were comedians Ity and Fancy Cat, whose performance included a spoof of an Ocean Spray ‘bog’ commercial. Ocean Spray’s new TV commercial, featuring Tarrus Riley, was also launched.

Health conscious

The artiste stated that he is very conscious about health issues. “I believe that cranberry juice is refreshing and healthy and I never knew that so many Jamaicans consume cranberry juice,” he said. “I am pleased to endorse the Ocean Spray products”.

William Mahfood, managing director of WISYNCO, distributors of Ocean Spray explained that the range of products is Jamaica’s number one cranberry juice. “We believe that Tarrus Riley was the perfect candidate to be associated with the brand. His strong talent and versatility, powerful lyrics, and his image of health, and mass appeal are all powerful characteristics to be associated with,” said Mahfood.

Highest cranberry consumption

“Jamaica has the highest consumption of Cranberry in the world,” Mahfood also said.

Country Manager, Tamara Ward also pointed out certain similarities between Tarrus and Ocean Spray, some of which include quality, being hard working, in the limelight, uplifting, not pushy, knowing its worth.

Tarrus’ many awards include the IRAWMA (International Reggae And World Music Awards) for ‘Most Promising Entertainer’ in May 2007 and ‘Male Vocalist of the Year’ and ‘Song of the Year’ in May 2008.

In February 2008, he received 4 awards at the Jamaica Reggae Academy Awards, including ‘Song of the Year’, ‘Male Vocalist of the Year’, ‘Breakthrough Reggae Artist’ and ‘Peoples Choice Award’. Two more awards were granted for ‘Best Video’ and ‘Best Reggae Recording’ for She’s Royal.

Source: JamaicaStar