An Open Letter To New York’s Caribbean Media Corps – From Sheron Hamilton-Pearson

Well, after watching and waiting, I’ve been sorely disappointed at the lack of coverage given to a newsworthy event that occurred in Brooklyn on November 1, 2009.

The remarkable feat of which I speak lies in the accomplishment by pioneering roots reggae group, “The Mighty Diamonds” in achieving perhaps an unrivaled track record that should rightly be chronicled in the Guinness Book of Records.  The Mighty Diamonds has performed as a group in its original line-up headed by lead singer Donald “Tabby” Shaw and backed by Fitzroy “Bunny” Simpson and Lloyd “Judge” Ferguson for 40 years!

Longevity in the reggae industry is something to be lauded as it speaks to an indomitable spirit that has withstood the test of time, fads, fashions and the ubiquitous hype that is more and more prevalent in the history of the modern reggae movement.  Staying power in any musical genre points to foundation, the cornerstones from which something lasting and noble can spring; something of which a small island nation like Jamaica can be proud.

40 years in the life of a married couple would garner showers of praise and gifts to commemorate a Ruby anniversary with the attendant hoopla and well wishes from family and friends.

TSO Productions and The Coalition to Preserve Reggae Music in recognizing this milestone, featured the Mighty Diamonds as a headline act at this year’s annual Reggae Culture Salute.  The Diamonds, as far as I am aware, are the first reggae group to receive a Congressional Citation and Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke was on hand to make the presentation in person.  Such citations do not come lightly and it is a shame that the vast majority of journalists, publicists and members of the reggae fraternity felt this achievement should go unnoticed with not a mention or nod of recognition.

Thanks to Jared McAllister of the Daily News who featured the group in his October 18th Article, as did Felicia Persaud of CWNN, What’s Up TV and Zync-TV, but where are the comments from the rest of the Caribbean journalists and reggae writers!