Nelly Furtado Aids Bajan Promoter’s Showcase

One of Canada’s most anticipated music events, The Honey Jam artist showcase,  took place at the Mod Club Theatre. Hosted by MuchMusic's VJ Sarah Taylor, the 2009 edition delivered one of the best showcases in the history of the event - a night of exciting entertainment with a diverse group of artists as PhemPhat also celebrated its 14th anniversary.

Bajan promoter Ebonnie Rowe, Honey Jam founder, producer and president of PhemPhat Entertainment Group, says, “The years have gone by so quickly! And even in this age of instant TV fame, this showcase still means a lot to the artists and continues to be relevant.”

Bajan promoter Ebonnie Rowe.

There was some speculation as to whether the show would happen but Rowe was determined not to become “recession roadkill”. “We're happy we decided to go forward with the show despite the economic downturn. It’s been very difficult, yes, and many events have had to shut down due to lack of sponsorship, but we were determined and committed to putting on the show against all odds. 'Nothing splendid was ever achieved except by those who dared believe that something inside of them was superior to circumstance…' that quote pulled me through,” said Rowe. 

What is the fuel behind that determination?  The artists write to Rowe about what it means to them. She shared one of their letters: The experience was definitely a rewarding one. I was able to make many great contacts and friends among the artists themselves. Honey Jam is a godsend in more ways than one for the women in the industry, in this city and the country at large.

“That's why we do what we do and why we will continue to provide this platform for female artists,” Rowe said.

The most well known alumnus who was discovered at Honey Jam is Nelly Furtado, who, when she heard about the showcase being in need of financial support, wrote a cheque to show her support.  

Superstar Nelly Furtado, an alumnus of Honey Jam, financially supported the show.

Rowe says, “I was totally blown away.  It was an emotional moment for me to know that 12 years later she still remembered us and cared enough to do this.  It shows you the kind of person that she is – genuine, generous and caring.  A lot of people talk the talk but few walk it.  We feel inspired, encouraged and very appreciative of this.”

There may have been an economic recession but there was no recession in terms of talent and this year’s show did not disappoint. The lineup included artists representing genres of Latin Fusion, Country, Hip Hop, Jazz, House/Lounge, Gospel, Pop, R&B.  

Shianne Phillips, one of the Honey Jam performers.

Three successful Barbadians living in Toronto also participated as sponsors – Adrian Crew of Hair2Inc., Aisha Wickham Thomas, head of the Canadian Independent Recording Artists Association and Xania Khan, editor of Vervegirl Magazine. Barbadian songstress Marisa Lindsay also came out to support the event, just days before her own CD launch in Toronto.

Barbadian Adrian Carew of Hair@Inc with friends.

Proceeds from the show supported YWCA Toronto's programmes for women and girls.

See www.honeyjam.com for more info.

A group photo of the Honey Jam performers.