Star-studded Signature night

From Agent Sasco in Montego Bay to Sanchez in Mandeville, Appleton Signature Nights has become a well-supported concert series. With the nomadic format, the spirits brand has featured Jamaica's favourite stars all across the island.

Last Thursday night, the series made its way to Sharkies in Runaway Bay, St Ann, with Bugle as headliner. This Signature Night turned out to be more than a showcase of Bugle's catalogue. The show evolved into a truly star-studded event, inviting appearances from other reggae singers, popular dancers, and one of the dance hall community's most-sought-after figures Popcaan.

As the clock neared 9 p.m., patrons at the quaint seaside bar on Salem Beach made their way beachside as the event swelled into standing-room only. It was not until 10 p.m. that Bugle took to the stage, donned in all white (save a blue turban and blue kicks). Backed by the Ruff Cut Band, the reggae artiste excited the audience with hit after hit. The night truly came alive as the Real Survivor singer invited friends and collaborators to join him.

After putting in a solid hour of performance, Bugle called up his most recent collaborator popular local dancer Shakespear to help the reggae singer out with their 'dancing tune' Bobo Rock. Two women joined the performers on stage for the dancing, with one abandoning her sandals for the sandy beach floor.

Then there was Big Woman Time singer, Shuga. Beloved from her days as a Rising Stars winner, the songstress 'rode a few riddims', adding sultry flair to the evening's proceedings as Bugle looked on from stage-side.

Then there was a fiery contribution from Bobo Ashanti star Anthony B and a performance by Zamunda.

Still, the night was not over. Giving the patrons more bang for their $500 entry fee, the final act to take the stage was Popcaan.

With one word ("Family!"), the crowd got up from wooden chairs and moved in one swift motion to stand at the front of the stage with their phones and cameras in the air.

It was clear that the artiste came solely to show support to Bugle. Casually dressed in jeans and a hoodie, Popcaan performed Family and True Friends (featuring Bugle) before closing his short set with Nah Fail.

But it was still Bugle's night as he returned to the stage to close the show with his biggest hit, Nuh Compatible, to which the audience whooped, cheered, and sang along. It really was a Signature Night.