Terance Williams, of Team Abena, says the spirit of Jamaica was “alive and electric” on Saturday, Aug. 9, as acclaimed singer and cultural ambassador Abena Amory lit up the stage at Jamaica Independence Foundation, Inc.’s (JIFI) 63rd Independence Anniversary Gala at Terrace on the Park in Corona, Queens.
Williams told Caribbean Life that the gala, “an elegant fusion of Caribbean pride, music, and community, was one of the highlights of the summer for the Jamaican Diaspora in New York.
“Abena’s performance was nothing short of magical,” he said. “With her signature blend of soulful vocals, captivating stage presence, and a repertoire that pays homage to both her roots and global influences, she brought the audience to their feet in celebration.
“Performing a mix of reggae classics and original pieces, Abena transformed the gala into a vibrant, shared experience of heritage and unity,” Williams added.
“The gala was a celebration of those who have positively impacted the Jamaican community, with iconic honorees such as Christopher Martin, who recently shared the St. Kitts Music Fest stage with Abena,” Williams continued. “Guests dined and danced in honor of Jamaica’s journey from independence in 1962 to its thriving global cultural presence today.
“Abena demonstrated once again how music can unite generations and bridge oceans, making Jamaica’s 63rd Independence celebration not only a reflection of the past, but a bold declaration of the future,” he said.
In April, Amory, a Brooklyn-based singer, songwriter and entertainer told Caribbean Life that she was “excited” to make her debut at the St. Kitts Music Festival 2025.
Amory, the daughter of the late Nevis Premier Vance Amory and acclaimed Vincentian vocalist Erlene Williams-King, said she “couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity” to showcase her talent on this esteemed global stage, which took place from Jun. 26 – 28, 2025.
“As a proud daughter of St. Kitts and Nevis, it is an absolute honor to be performing at this year’s St. Kitts Music Festival,” she said. “This moment has been a long time coming, and, to finally grace the stage in my homeland—among some of the most incredible international and regional artists—is truly a dream realized.”
She said the St. Kitts Music Festival is “a celebration of culture, music and the unmatched energy of our people.
“There is nothing like performing for a home crowd, feeling the love of my fellow Kittitians and Nevisians, and sharing this experience with the many music lovers who travel from near and far for this iconic event,” Amory added. “Music has always been a powerful part of my journey, and, to stand on that stage representing my roots, my passion and my artistry, is beyond exciting.
Not one to be boxed in, Amory said she explores various genres of music, taking great care to infuse her productions with a love theme.
She said she made her debut appearance at the Nevis Mango Festival in July 2024 and blew her audience away.
Amory said her selection to the Fest solidifies the impact of her brand and the potential of her reach.
She said she has been writing, singing and performing for the greater part of her life, and always enjoys representing her Caribbean heritage and her rich African history.
Amory said she was immersed in the world of music from her earliest days, with her journey as a singer and songwriter beginning amidst the vibrant melodies of her mother’s hometown in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, blossoming further during her formative years in New York City.
From there, Amory said her voice became “a shining light”, traversing the length and breadth of the United States, captivating audiences wherever it resonated.
She said she lent her voice to ensembles such as Raymond Trapp and the Voices of Praise, gracing iconic venues like Grand Central Station, and earning accolades at prestigious events like the McDonald’s Gospel Fest.
Amory said her sonic voyage continued with the BQE Band, “igniting revelry and joy at Carnival celebrations across major cities.”
She said renowned Soca artiste Alston “Becket” Cyrus, calypso legend King Short Shirt and legendary Caribbean musical arranger Dr. Frankie McIntosh are among many artistes who have benefited from her musical talent.
In February 2023, Amory released the reggae love song, “Your Love”, to a live audience in Brooklyn and a declaration that she was ready to take her musical career to the next level.
Driven by a profound desire to touch hearts and transform lives through her music, Amory said she traverses genres from gospel to calypso, reggae to jazz.
In June 2024, Amory and Dejour collaborated on the single, “Toxic Love”.
During her performance at Mango Festival, Amory also released a new single, her version of “Breezy.”
