JO CAESAR AT THE RITZY

by Coral Consciouslee

8th May 2018

My first time seeing Jo Caesar and hearing her sing, was at the Reggae Star Factor Competition held at the Shaw Theatre.  I remember feeling goose-bumps when I heard her vocal range and thinking how privileged I was to hear such a voice.  The following week I met her before the show started and predicted that she would win the competition.

Jo Caesar in action

Jo Caesar did go on to win Reggae Star Factor 2015 and the reggae community was abuzz with the possibilities that could arise.  However, Jo’s path to success did not run as smoothly as planned and in 2016 she decided to take a hiatus away from music.

Reggae Star Factor Award 2015

Fast forward to 2018 and Jo has returned stronger and bolder than ever! There was a distinct polished appearance together with professionalism of a high standard to her social media presence.  With new management and exciting plans in the works, Jo’s first stop was to have her own show at the Ritzy in Brixton.  Every first Sunday of the month, promoter Geoff Parker runs an event called ‘Catch A Fire’ featuring various reggae artists and bands.  It is a small intimate place, very well placed in location and with an eclectic audience.  A perfect venue for an artist to feature their talent and works I thought.

The Powers Band

Jo opened the show with her now famous song “Coming On Strong”.  If she had any nerves she hid it well.  Her range was strong as she confidently belted out classic after classic of her favourite songs, putting her own style and a slight twist into some.  The Powers Band seemed well rehearsed and tight, complimenting Jo without being overpowering.  The balance was just right.   Jo had Temi Brown as her backing singer, a very strong vocalist whose style was pleasurable and attractive to the listener.

The audience engaged with Jo from the beginning; dancing, clapping, cheering and singing along.  We were treated to some reggae classics such as “How Could I Leave?” and “The First Cut Is The Deepest”.  There was also a moving rendition of “Natural High” in tribute to the late Claudia Fontaine.  The second half saw a switch to soul. Jo effortlessly thrilled us with Jill Scott’s “He Loves Me”and Erykah Badu’s “Tyrone”. It was an electrifying evening.

Jo Caesar is a multi-genre artist.  Instead of using the term “Rising Star” I would say Jo is already a star…she is just shining brighter.


Photos courtesy of Courtney Anglin


Watch out for the release of Jo Caesar's new single "Used To Be Your House" end of June 2018!!

Management: Jatmuzicuk@gmail.com
Facebook: @Jocaesarofficial
Instagram: @Jocaesarsings
Twitter: @Jocaesarsings
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