Valiant Performs In Guyana For Second Time, Visits Communities To Connect With Fans

Rising dancehall star Valiant performed to a sold-out crowd in Guyana for the second time in less than a month on February 25, a testament to his heady rise as one of the most sought-after dancehall acts in recent months.

Guyanese fans turned out in droves to see Valiant and Stalk Ashley, who performed courtesy of Guyanese promoters, Slingerz Family Entertainment.

The event, ‘Westside Mashramani Weekend’ did not disappoint as it pulled out thousands of screaming fans. Performing to yet another sold out event, Valiant delivered hits such as North Carolina, St. Mary, Dunce Cheque, Glock 40, and Siance.

Mashramani, often abbreviated to “Mash,” is an annual festival that celebrates Guyana becoming a Republic in 1970. The festival, usually held on 23 February – Guyanese Republic Day – includes a parade, music, games and cooking and is intended to commemorate the “Birth of the Republic.

Valiant, whose given name is Raheem Bowes, has been on a tear in recent weeks. In December, he occupied the top five spots out of 10 on the YouTube charts in Jamaica. The feat earned him the attention of the iconic fashion magazine Vogue, which named Valiant as one of nine international musicians set to “take over” in 2023. In January, he occupied nine of the top ten spots on YouTube’s Music Charts for Jamaica, while becoming the most streamed dancehall artist for the month.

Despite his heady success, he has remained grounded and welcomed the opportunity by Slingerz to engage with fans from the local community.

“Giving back to the local community was of paramount importance,” a release from the Diplomats team, which includes managers Steco and Chopline, said.

Before his star-studded show, Valiant and Slingerz Family Entertainment visited many communities across Guyana including Regent Street, Tiger Bay, Albouystown, Stabroek Market, and Leopold Street.

Valiant showed his appreciation through monetary gifts, taking photos, speaking, and liming with his fans throughout the various communities.

According to the release, Valiant and Slingerz Family Entertainment emphasized reaching a younger demographic, specifically in inner-city communities. Valiant’s desire to show young people the benefits of following their own aspirations and maximising their individual potential was the driving force behind this small yet impactful initiative.

Valiant is scheduled to perform in Barbados, Grenada, Bermuda, St Maarten, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Trinidad over the coming months. His Canadian, US and UK tour schedule will be announced shortly.