Story and photos by Tamica Garnett

JAMAICAN gospel singer, Papa San truly touched a lot of Guyanese recently, emotionally and literally, as he delivered powerful ministry and an energetic musical performance.
The occasion was the “Righteous Invasion of Truth: Love Over Violence” concert on ‘Mash Night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall tarmac.The “One Blood” singer took to the stage just after 22:00hrs and belted out over 20 of his top hits across six albums, including several tracks from way back when, in an almost two-hour-long performance as patrons rushed to the stage to get that up-close-and-personal experience.
And then, at the end of it all, came the altar call that saw the ‘Man of God’ doing some serious laying of hands and offering up of prayers.
Emcees for the evening were Heavenly Full Gospel Church’s youth pastor, Eworth Williams, and Teleperformance Manager, Carson Jack. The sound system was Audix Pro Sounds, with musical selection by DJ Julian.
FULLY LOADED
Papa San, of course, also came fully equipped with his own back-up crew, which included his daughter, Tasan, with whom he performed “Running”.
The 49-year-old was really able to ‘click’ with the young crowd, particularly when he reached for those songs from way back when, something that really resonated with a lot of 90s babies in the crowd.

“Many of the locals were good, but I really came to hear him,” said Mark of the Full Gospel Assembly.
“I think I enjoyed when he sang some of the songs from his very first album; some of which I haven’t heard in years,” he added.
Jason, from the New Life Transformational & Global Outreach Ministries, said that he really enjoyed the night, but admitted that he wasn’t sure about going at first. He, however, said he was glad that he decided to go after all.
“Oh my gosh! I am so happy that I went! I was kind of skeptical at first, but I was really happy that I went, because it wasn’t just about the hype. Yes, I went to be entertained, but also the ministry aspect was very good; it was good to see Papa San still vibing nicely to the young people, even though he’s such a big guy,” Jason said. He’d travelled all the way from ‘The West Side’ just to see ‘Papa’ in action.
FEELIN’ THE LOVE
But the Guyanese were getting the love just as much as they were giving it!
“Amazing concert! Love it!” the “Step Pon the Enemy” songster, who has collaborated with the likes of Kirk Franklin, Lecrae and Da’ T.R.U.T.H. said, adding:
“I enjoy myself a lot; you know wha’ ah mean! And I’m looking forward to be back.
“I love the Guyanese people, and I love to be here to minister. People were blessed by the music, and get touched by the Lord. I mean, it was a whole package.”
This was by far not Papa San’s first time in Guyana, but definitely one of his better performances. He’s truly gotten better with age, though his age hardly showed as he frolicked about the stage, keeping his flock entertained.
Local artistes of the night included the regular line-up, topped off, of course, by the performance of the award-winning Samuel Medas.
Others on board were Rondel DISI Holder, Leann Alleyne, Mr. Daniels, Radikal 1, Solid Youth, and Peks Band (African Praise). There were also the dances and skits.