Reggae Sumfest | Harry Toddler pays tribute to godfather of his children Merciless
Published:Saturday | July 23, 2022 | 3:37 AMAaliyah Cunningham/Gleaner Writer -
Veteran dancehall artiste, Harry Toddler, paid homage to late deejay Merciless during his performance on the Reggae Sumfest stage.
During the last two minutes of his set, he dedicated a song to the recording artiste, whose real name is Leonard Bartley.
Merciless was found dead in a motel in St Andrew on Tuesday, sending the music fraternity into mourning.
"If you're a fan of dancehall and respect the hard work Leonard Bartley has done, then all we can say is we miss you," Toddler said to the crowd before he began his emotional performance. The song spoke to their years of friendship as Toddler shared that Merciless was the godfather to his children.
A veteran deejay, Merciless has given dancehall music several great hits such as Ole Gyallis, Gal Dem Gizzada, Len Out Mi Mercy and more. He is also famous for his clash performances on the stage show Sting.
Harry Toddler still managed to deliver an exciting show though he was grieving. He included popular songs from his repertoire, including Don't Run In, which was his opener and a newer track, Google Me, which excited the crowd. Dancers also joined him for a part of his performance.
Toddler is no stranger to the Sumfest stage and has been performing since the very first Reggae Sumfest in 1993. The former member of the Scare Dem Crew definitely showcased his skill and mastery of the stage as he seamlessly moved from track to track.
Prior to his performance, first-time performer, Moyann hit the stage in full gold and put a modern twist on the famous gold outfit worn by Dancehall Queen Carlene. She complimented the look with blonde hair and knee-high nude boots. The Montego Bay native performed songs such as No Limit, Run Out and A Nuh My Style.