Brampton On Stage presents Kirk Diamond featuring Ammoye: A night of enchantment and empowerment

BY PAUL JUNOR

It was an evening filled with energy, joy, and empowerment at the Rose Theatre on Saturday, November 23^rd, 2024, as the legendary Kirk Diamond and the dynamic Ammoye took the stage for an unforgettable night of music and celebration. The crowd was swept away by the infectious rhythms, dazzling performances, and heartfelt messages of love, unity, and self-expression.

The evening kicked off with a powerful performance from Ammoye, an artist hailed as a beacon of empowerment and a self-declared social rebel. Known for uniting voices in a musical journey of justice, unity, and love, Ammoye’s performance was an electrifying start to the night. The audience was immediately drawn in by her commanding stage presence and energetic blend of genres, which showcased her versatility as both a singer and dancer.

Ammoye’s set was a celebration of her musical talent and her commitment to spreading positive, empowering messages. Her performance of “Shooting (Stop the War),” a song she regularly performs at festivals across Canada, resonated deeply with the audience. Additionally, she shared a song from her album written during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a deeply personal reflection on her spiritual journey. Having just returned from a spiritual retreat, Ammoye shared her renewed sense of energy and purpose with the crowd, encouraging everyone to never let anyone stifle their gifts. “Do not ignore the power of your soul,” she urged, reminding the audience of the importance of self-expression, especially for Black women.

Throughout her performance, Ammoye also shared personal anecdotes from her musical journey, reflecting on how far she’s come and how dreams can become reality. “I didn’t know my dreams would come true,” she said, encouraging the audience to hold on to their own aspirations. “If you have a dream in your heart, it can come through.”

After Ammoye’s high-energy and uplifting performance, the audience eagerly awaited the arrival of the night’s headliner: Kirk Diamond, the three-time Juno Award-winning reggae artist. As Kirk prepared for his set, the night took an unexpected and heartwarming turn. MPP Charmaine Williams, the Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity for the Province of Ontario, made a surprise appearance to present Kirk with a certificate recognizing the official renaming of Shields Park to Kirk Diamond Park—a fitting tribute to the Brampton-based artist’s contributions to his community and the world of music.

Kirk’s performance was a masterclass in musical authenticity and emotion. Known for his deep and reflective lyrics, Kirk performed “Deh Yah,” a song that explores the challenges of staying true to oneself in unfamiliar or uncomfortable spaces. The audience was moved by his heartfelt delivery and powerful storytelling.

A native of Spanish Town, Jamaica, Kirk Diamond has been delighting audiences since 2010. With three Juno Awards and six nominations under his belt, his music continues to inspire and motivate listeners across the globe. Kirk’s commitment to using music as a platform for empowerment was evident throughout his performance. “When I do music, I do it from the heart,” he said, and it was clear that his passion and authenticity were felt by everyone in the room. “Music is the only thing that unites 100% of people—it’s not religion, it’s not politics,” he added, emphasizing the power of music to transcend boundaries.

The night concluded with a special moment when a choir from Balmoral Middle School in Brampton joined Kirk on stage for a collaborative performance. The connection between the artist and the local community was palpable, and the audience was moved by the display of unity and talent. As the show wrapped up, Kirk invited the principal of Cheyne Middle School to the stage, acknowledging the special connection he has with the school, where his daughter attends.

From start to finish, the night was a celebration of music, community, and empowerment, leaving the audience with a sense of inspiration and unity. Kirk Diamond and Ammoye’s performances were not just entertainment; they were a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity, self-expression, and the transformative power of music.