By Susan Mann
Caribbean Net News St Thomas-St John Correspondent
Email: susan@caribbeannetnews.com
ST JOHN, USVI: The ball field in Cruz Bay in the US Virgin Islands slowly swelled to thousands as off-island Rastafarians, reggae lovers, and amazed tourists waited until the early morning hours on July 4 to watch a performance of the last living member of the Wailers, de’ Jamaican king, Bunny Wailer.
Local and mainland talent leading up to the Rasta flag carrying, cultural icon, was both entertaining and varied, featuring a seven year old Virgin island resident who sang his heart out, to internationally known “hip-hop” stars.
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| Reggae legend Bunny Wailer performed for an awestruck crowd on St John during the early morning hours on July 4. Photo by Susan Mann |
For many years, Bunny Wailer (Livingston) has chosen to lead a somewhat reclusive life style, seldom doing live performances.
As fellow “Wailers”, most notably Bob Marley, became internationally acclaimed stars, Bunny Wailer left the group to persue his own musical career and spiritual focus.
The performer focuses primarily on “roots reggae”, a category which is defined by Rastafari as a spiritual element. This fact was evidenced by commentaries Wailer delivered on St John during his performance, including references to “Jah” and the Ten Commandments.
The sixty-year-old, whose costume included an armband with a symbolic marijuana leaf, broke into dance through out his vocal numbers, and made a point to take hold of many of the outreached hands of his followers. One audience member was seen making an attempt to touch the hem of his pants leg.
The elder Rasta statesman continues to have a very strong, forceful speaking and singing voice. He took no breaks throughout the lengthy performance, evidencing as much physical energy when he prepared to end his performance, as when he first walked on to the stage.
Additional comments and photos can be viewed here, in the Entertainment section of this edition of Caribbean Net News. | 
