Riley ready to give fans ‘150 per cent’
Reggae star Tarrus Riley has a very special treat in store for his fans when he takes the Bermuda stage this week. But he isn’t telling what it is just yet.
“It’s kind of a surprise because you can’t give away all of your secrets,” he said.
“But expect Tarrus Riley to give you 150 per cent out of the performance because you know we do a whole heap of different styles of music — for the lovers, people who are thinking conscious.
“We have dancing music, listening music and we have grooving music.
“It should be fun. I’m going to look nice, sound nice and have a good time. We have to keep it exciting, and I am ready.”
Tarrus was last on stage in Bermuda in 2014 for Cup Match Summer Splash.
He will return for Thursday’s Bermuda Easter Fiesta; dancehall singer Cocoa Tea and reggae singer Etana will also perform.
“I am very excited to be coming back because the last time was very great,” Tarrus said. “Bermuda is just a pretty place and has lots of energy and good vibes there, and so I can’t wait.
“It’s a great line-up. Cocoa Tea is just a veteran dancehall, reggae singer while Etana can also sing. She have a strong voice and I like it. She is good vibes.”
Tarrus released his debut album, Challenges, in 2004. His numerous honours include a nomination for Best Reggae Artist at the Soul Train Music Awards in 2009.
The artist is the son of veteran reggae singer Jimmy Riley who, at age 61, is showing no signs of slowing down.
“My father is still singing and he is the one who introduced me to the music business,” Tarrus said. “My mother introduced me to music because she is a bathroom singer; she sings all the time around the house.
“But my dad is a musician, and so that’s his job, and I used to follow and hang out with him when he was doing his work.
“He never taught me music. But he brought me around the music and because I love it so much I picked up so fast.”
• Thursday’s concert takes place under the tent at the National Sports Centre. The show starts at 9pm. Tickets are $55 in advance at ptix.bm, or $85 at the gate. For more information call 295-3016