Reggae Dancehall Artist Gyptian Makes Island SPACE Appearance
On Thursday, the 18th of May, just as the Sun was setting on Broward Mall, Island SPACE lit up with music as they welcomed their guests into the verandah. The museum, newly refreshed with Preston Hanna’s “Kolide-o-Scope” art exhibition, was the perfect backdrop in welcoming Jamaican Reggae Artist, Gyptian.
Consulate General of Jamaica Heritage winner and popular dancehall artist Windel Edwards, better known as Gyptian, came to Island SPACE on Thursday for an official Florida meet and greet with the community. Hosted by the Consul General of Jamaica for Miami the honorable Olive Mair, in association with VP records, Gyptian held this event in honor of the premiere of his two latest singles “Only Room For Two” and “Hot Gyal Walk Out”.
The evening started with some mingling as guests came into the museum, where VP Records, Island SPACE, and the Consul General stood as hosts for the event. As the night settled, VP Records Director of Business Development, Richard Lue, welcom. Lue spoke about the importance of reggae and modern technology’s influence. Gyptians trademark style is classed as lovers rock and roots reggae. His music often contains themes about political issues and love. Lue highlighted the importance of streaming in reference to Gyptian’s new singles.
Then, Gyptian took center stage. He spoke to his fans, talking about his excitement for the upcoming release and thanked Island SPACE and its community for hosting VP records. After speaking some more about the release of his upcoming singles, made a special presentation to Island SPACE Caribbean Music where he gifted them a plaque of his hit single, “Hold You” which is Certified Gold. This plaque now has a home in Island SPACE Caribbean Museum’s permanent collection.
The evening ended with music, and dancing. Fans and Island SPACE members got the opportunity to interact with Gyptian, dance with him, take pictures with him, and have his autograph. All attendees were given a free download for Gyptian’s latest album. A momentous evening for a momentous occasion in Island SPACE history.
Island SPACE is supported in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, Florida Humanities, the National Endowment for the Arts, Florida Power & Light Company, Grace Foods, Broward Mall, the Broward County Cultural Division and the following Funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Mary N. Porter Community Impact Fund, Jack Belt Memorial Fund, Ginny and Tom Miller Fund, Stearns Weaver Miller Fund for the Arts, Harold D. Franks Fund.
Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education (Island SPACE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of arts, culture, history, and educational initiatives that represent the Caribbean region, in South Florida and the broader diaspora community.