The 5th anniversary Honey Jam concert did not disappoint the sold out crowd at Frank Collymore Hall. The energy was high from the start with a pre-party on the terrace with music by DJ D.Luxe and fashionistas walking the Maybelline New York Black Carpet.

Host Alex Jordan was in fine form, quickwitted and dynamic, as she introduced the 16 artists who graced the stage with powerful performances. Pop, country, rock, gospel, jazz, soul, rnb – every artist brought something different. There were more than a few standing ovations but none received a more enthusiastic response than Mikki King with her rendition of Nirvana’s “Come as you are”. Kristen Walker’s version of “Hotline Bling” was another crowd favourite. All of the artists received rousing applause.

Grammy-nominated recording artist Elle Varner who was in attendance, having flown in from New York to conduct a workshop the day before said the was “completely blown away” by the level of talent.

The final artist for the night was a surprise performance by Nikita, who performed at the first Honey Jam and returned with the song she did that night, “I can do bad all by myself”. Producer Ebonnie Rowe paid tribute to Nikita, thanking her for giving back through the weeks of time she spent participating as an audition judge and workshop panellist, coaching the artists, attending the rehearsals and giving advice and encouragement. The show ended with all of the artists joining Nikita on stage for the last part of the song for a rousing finale.

Backing band the NJ30+ led by bassist Marius Charlemagne showed their expert musicianship as they backed each artist and then had everyone dancing at the jamming after-party.

An ecstatic Ebonnie Rowe declared that this was the “best Honey Jam ever!” and that she’s excited to move forward with plans for Honey Jazz slated for January 30.