Yolanda Adams. Photo: Greg "Fritz" Blakey

Speaking on Andria Hall LIVE! on New York's WMCA Radio, Adams said she was excited to be participating for the first time at this year's festival, which opened earlier this week. "I really enjoy being one of those gospel artists who can go anywhere and take the message and love of Jesus (Christ) everywhere," she told listeners. "I have done jazz festivals, blues festivals, all kinds of festivals, and we’ve been invited back each time because of the word and anointing that are on our lives," said Adams.

Expect to laugh and cry, Adams said, explaining that "it's the same show that we do in a church, on a soccer field and it always gets the same response. People laugh, they cry, they go back home (and say) that is exactly what I needed ... so I am so excited to be a part of it this year."

The Houston, Texas native is the eldest of six siblings and her pioneering spirit and boundless optimism have become her trademark. Her solid church background and love of all kinds of music, which she says "was inspired by family – everything from Stevie Wonder to Beethoven," left her with a respect for traditional music styles, as well as a desire for more contemporary interpretation. "Too many times we're put in a box by musical labels," she says.

An impressive list of local and international artists is lined up to perform at the Turtle Cove Marina. Other stars include Grammy-nominated saxophonist Najee; reggae and soca group Stanley Roots; 2004 American Idol winner Fantasia; internationally acclaimed reggae band Steel Pulse; the cool reggae vibes of T.O.K. from Jamaica, and Grammy-award winning hip-hop artist Ludacris.

Festival fans are being treated not only to explosive musical sounds, but to a local boat regatta, beauty pageants, float parade, premier beaches, world class diving, and an abundance of local food, music and culture.