Etana tells Bda 'let go of the bad energy'

Reggae songstress Etana is encouraging Bermudians to let go of the stress and bad energy in the serious times facing the island.

The singer will join reggae superstar Gyptian next Saturday at the St David’s Cricket Club for a show aimed at stopping the violence in Bermuda.

The event is called Serious Times, the name of one of Gyptian’s very first songs back in 2006.

It is being put on by Just One Promotions and is advertised as a community event where families are encouraged to attend.

Part proceeds will go to St David’s Primary School’s summer programme.

Etana spoke to the Bermuda Sun after stepping off of a plane in Denver on Tuesday afternoon.

She kicked off her tour with Gyptian that night in Denver.

Etana, known as “the strong one”, spoke with enthusiasm about returning to Bermuda.

“You know what, I really, really love Bermuda.

“Besides performing there with Richie Spice, I think I love it because it reminds me of London, mainly because of the weather.

“It’s something about Bermuda.”

She started as a backup singer to Richie Spice and debuted her album in 2008.

“I never had any idea that I would be on stage singing my own songs,” the singer said.

“It’s been great. It was a little rough in the beginning getting on stage.

“Sometimes I had to fight for stage time.

“Now, I am just happy being me.”

Asked about the message she hopes to get across, Etana, born Shauna McKenzie, said: “Well, in these times, there’s a lot of changes going on across the world.

“Everywhere there is more sex and drugs and money and greed, so it’s serious times according to Gyptian.

“But for me it’s a serious energy and vibe performance for us.

“We’re not expecting them to bring no guns and no knives. Just bring your good heart.”

The 27-year-old said she enjoys touring with Gyptian.

The pair recently toured in Europe and she is expecting the same energy here in Bermuda.

As for her favourite songs, Etana said they included Blessings, Roots, Free, I’m Not Afraid and Don’t let Me Down.

Asked about her expectations for the show, Etana said: “I guess with every crowd it’s different.

“Sometimes that special song or performance comes from the audience themselves.

“Sometimes they say I didn’t sing this song and shout it out.”

As far as her and Gyptian doing a duet, the songstress said with a laugh: “Maybe, maybe not.”

Etana continued: “I don’t know how it is in Bermuda — whether people rush out to reggae shows.

“The last time, the crowd was really big and the energy was wicked.

“Let go of the stress, let go of the bad energy and come focus on some good energy.”

Local acts include Clinark Dill, C’Daynger, E-Levels and Slanger, among others.

Tickets for the event are $60 for regular and $90 for VIP.

Organizer Declan Harris explained the concept of the event.

“When we looked at the current social and economic climate we all agreed that our country is in pain and needs some relief.

“We hope that through the uplifting and themed message of these artists it will provide some respite, even if it is temporary. 

“Gyptian and Etana both promote socially conscious messages that encourage hope in even the most desperate of times and situations.

“Through the generous support of our sponsors we have been able to offer a ticket price that has not been seen in many years and reflects sensitivity to a crunched economic climate. 

“The reality is that a large portion of the general public cannot afford a $100 price tag or higher.”

There are also 300 youth tickets available for those 18 and under at $30 each ticket thanks to Digicel.

A VIP invitation is being extended to mothers who have lost a loved one due to the escalated violence.