By Lady Cham

On June 8th, 2010,  St. Lucian born Taj Weekes, an insightful Reggae musician, songwriter and vocalist graced the Jewish Mother in Virginia Beach. He was at the beach to perform with his band Adowa while on a tour for their most recent album ‘DEIDEM’  which was released on his own independent label, Jatta Records.  DEIDEM is a play on words DE-I-DEM which basically means ‘all of us.’

Taj has a beautiful soft but powerful voice with a raspy air; in fact he speaks like Lucky Dube, sings like Nasio Fontaine and moves like Bob Marley. His music was uplifting and soulful, his lyrics told of the trials and tribulations of the life of a Rasta and those who live in poverty, he told of a cold unjust world but also of his hopes and dreams. He used Biblical quotes and phrases that are familiar to many; and we listened intently to his words, his music, his potent power. Taj had his fans at the Jewish Mother captivated with him, his band was tight, they fused with him as one and it was amazing to see their faces lit up, the band was constantly smiling and their happiness transcended into the audience.

Taj also took the time on stage to stop the show and share with the audience some information about his non-profit organization TOCO.  They Often Cry Outreach (TOCO) is a U.S.-based not-for-profit organization and is dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged, at-risk and orphaned children through sport, enrichment, educational and wellness programs.

Taj Weekes and his band would be welcome back to Virginia Beach any time, it was an awesome show that will not be forgotten.

Band Information:

Taj Weekes: lead vocals, rhythm and acoustic guitar
Rads Desiree: bass
Adoni Xavier: lead and rhythm guitar
John Hewitt: keyboard
John I: keyboard
Cornell Marshall: drums
Valerie Kelley: backing vocals

Taj calls the band Adowa, in tribute to his Ethiopian grandfather and to an 1896 battle in which Ethiopian Emperor Menelik II thwarted off Italian invaders, a milestone in Rastafari history.