Advocacy group Bahamas Against Crime (BAC) got their way this weekend, when dancehall superstar Movado was denied entry into The Bahamas where he was slated to appear at the 8th annual Millennium Countdown Concert there. The four day major event started on October 30 and ended on the 2nd of November at the Queen Elizabeth Sports Center.
Earlier this month the group BAC sounded an alarm through a press release in which they pleaded with Bahamian media, government and the church to “take proper action” in what they spoke of as “an upcoming event that is poised to squander hard-earned gains in The Bahamas’ struggle to contain and reduce crime.” BAC pointed out that they took particular offence to Movado being on the bill, since, “his lyrics and persona glorify violence.” They also spoke of Movado’s songs as having sexually explicit lyrics.
The release said, "The last thing our people, especially our impressionable youth, should be exposed to are songs, dance, and simulated acts of murder, mayhem and the "gansta" lifestyle, projected and glorified by these influential individuals, in an environment of high energy lubricated by alcohol and drugs."
Promoters Sigma Management and Downsound Records combined their efforts to organize and stage the event in New Providence, with a completely different perception; as their only aim was to provide something for everyone, with the wide variety of stellar acts booked.
With the BAC utterly unaware of the positive implications of artists communicating the world’s realisms, be they sour or sweet; and the age old reality that dancehall dj’ing, rap and hip hop is documentary - they brought pressure to bear on authorities who sprung a surprise on Movado, his management and the show’s promoters as the DJ arrived in their country.
The event was promoted heavily overseas with the intention of attracting many international guests and tourists to The Bahamas. Promoter Frank Forbes of Sigma Management told The Nassau Guardian, “A key focus is that everyone must win from this major undertaking.”
Everyone but Mavado and his team that is, since they certainly lost their valuable time; as they could have been forewarned by Bahamian authorities before leaving Jamaica.
Others appearing over the weekend included: Keisha Cole, Morgan Heritage, Queen Ifrica, Tony Rebel, Jah Cure, Brian McKnight and Etana.
Tonight is the closing night and performers like: Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurking and Landlord will appear.
