A MOMENT WITH C-SHARP Aeion Monty Randy Dwayne
Perhaps you’ve seen or heard of them, but one thing is for sure, they have one of the most exquisite amalgamations of musical talents that the island of Jamaica has seen in a long time. Originally referred to as Sentimental Touch in the ‘jazz world’, C-Sharp came together in December 2001 with core members, Aeion “Yaaka” Hoilett, Dwain “Wiya” Campbell and Ordean “Bingy” Francis while studying at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. All hailing from the North Coast, the group began their journey in the renowned “Room 13” at the college, ‘jamming’ for hours after classes.
Needing to satisfy their insatiable appetite for playing music, during the first two years of coming together, the guys played at weddings, school concerts and many other small events once the opportunity arose. During this time guitarist Lamont “Monty” Savory joined the group and C-Sharp formed alliances with great musical influences such as Ibo Cooper, of the famed Third World Band, that would later on prove very influential in their becoming the renowned group they are today.
In August 2003 the face of C- Sharp changed, as drummer Ordean “Bingy” Francis parted ways with the group to embrace his calling to serve full time in the church. Randevon “Randy” Patrick was then welcomed as the new drummer, and Mark Bradford as lead vocalist, hence emerging a five-man band.
In August 2006, the face of C-Sharp once again changed as lead vocalist, Mark Bradford decided to part ways with the group. Chevaughn Clayton, another graduate of Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts became lead vocalist and the band decided to further enrich their sound by welcoming Kevon Webster, who joined Dwain “Wiya” Campbell on keyboards.
C-Sharp has evolved dramatically as the members either changed or became more committed to their calling as musicians. They boast an impressive resume as they have collectively toured fourteen European countries and have represented the island in Suriname at The Caribbean Festival of the Arts (Carifesta) in 2003.
Along with performing at Carifesta, the group was invited to share with Haiti the milestone of their 200th year of Independence in early January 2004. The group has worked conjunctively with phenomenal; artistes such as Third World’s Ibo Cooper, Gospel Sweethearts Robert and Jenieve Bailey, Taurus Riley, Abijah, Queen Omega and were the touring band for Reggae artistes Tony Rebel and Queen Ifrica. They were the opening act for Rita Marley I Three Singers in Germany and Hungary summer 2005.
In early 2005 the group decided to “shake” all attachments and promote their own music, with their own feel and vibe. C-Sharp made their entry at the Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest 2005. Their debut album “What a Day” graced the shelves in January 2006, clippings of which can be heard at their website, www.csharpmusic.net. In February 2006 C-Sharp worked as opening act once again for Rita Marley in Ghana Africa. C-Sharp continues to tour the world; from China to Denmark they leave their mark on the world.
