Soca superstar Machel Montano has been awarded the Entertainer’s Key to the City of New York, bestowed by the Mayor, in conjunction with the Rise Up NYC Concert Series and The Apollo.
On August 25th, Montano will headline a free concert ceremony and celebration at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, where he will receive the prestigious honour.
“It has been my lifelong dream to play at the Apollo Theater, one of the most iconic and legendary entertainment venues in the world. Its rich history and tradition, not to mention the enduring connections between the Harlem community and the Caribbean, make this an incredible honour for me,” Montano said.
Montano said the accolade reflects the growing appeal of calypso and soca music on the global stage.
The concert at Roy Wilkins Park will kick off a four-night residency for Montano at the iconic Apollo Theater over the U.S. Labor Day weekend. The historic series of shows will feature special guest performers.
This on the heels of his unforgettable performance at the 70th Emancipation Festival in Tortola. Here’s a look back at that electrifying night.