The ambience at Green Grown, a leading cannabis retailer in Belgium, set the stage for an unforgettable reggae concert featuring the renowned dancehall star, Charly Black. With over 600 legal cannabis products available across their 5 stores in Antwerp, Deurne, Mechelen, Leuven and Bruges (being the latest opened in February 2024), the venue provided a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of Jamaica itself.
By Remy Takang Arrey
Charly Black, originally known as Tony Mentol, hails from Rio Bueno, Jamaica. With a musical journey that began in his teenage years, Black garnered attention with his debut single ‘Woman Is You’ in 2004. Over the years, he released several notable singles and collaborations, including the globally acclaimed ‘Gyal You A Party Animal’, which earned Gold certification from the RIAA in 2019.
The choice of Green Grown as the concert venue added to the authenticity of the experience. Surrounded by the “scent” and vibes of Jamaica, Charly Black and his fans shared a sense of homecoming. The intimate setting allowed for a deep connection between the artist and the audience, with approximately 50 to 60 reggae enthusiasts in attendance.
A notable aspect of the concert was Charly Black’s use of an acoustic approach. This stripped-down style emphasized the raw essence of reggae music, allowing the audience to immerse themselves fully in the soulful rhythms and heartfelt lyrics. The acoustic rendition added an intimate touch to the performance, enhancing the general experience for concert-goers.
During the concert, Charly Black welcomed guest artists Nee Qah and Bakilla to the stage. Nee Qah performed her soon-to-be-released song ‘Love You On My Own’, showcasing a blend of reggae and contemporary sounds. The fusion of Afrobeats and reggae was further highlighted in the performance of ‘Rotate’ featuring Bakilla, a Ghanaian artist based in Antwerp. These collaborations added diversity to the musical lineup, captivating the audience with their mesmerizing melodies.
According to a fan in attendance, “Amid the challenging times faced by many in Belgium, listening to good music like this, provided a source of solace and joy!”. Fans expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to experience live music, noting its therapeutic effect in relieving stress and promoting a sense of community. Throughout the concert, the audience actively engaged with Charly Black, singing along to familiar hit songs and dancing to the infectious rhythms.
As the concert drew to a close, Charly Black extended his appreciation to the devoted fans who had gathered to support him. With promises of future performances, he bid farewell to the crowd, leaving them with a sense of excitement and fulfilment!
Remy Takang Arrey
March 9, 2024