Ellaina Joseph of Fond Baron Loubiere professionally known as LYRQ (ly-ric) is no stranger to
the bright lights or success within the global music industry. In 2019, Joseph wrote, vocal
produced and even provided her background vocals on three (3) songs, “You Like That”,
“Cheetah” and “Part of the Plan” from Chris Brown’s multi platinum album entitled Indigo.
Now, 5 years later, LYRQ has taken her talents back to her artist and performance roots and
traveled to London to open up for Bob Marley’s grandson, Skip Marley.
The sold out show (8/14) was not only Marley’s 1st headliner show in London, but LYRQ’s first
time performing in London as well, which made the event truly special. While on stage, in true
Dominican fashion, LYRQ wore the Dominican flag proudly on her waist and was greeted with
support and cheers by other fellow Dominicans in the audience.
During her brilliant 20 minute performance, Joseph sung passionately about her Dominican roots
on songs like “West Indies” and gave praise to her country’s recent Olympic Gold victory on
“Brighter than the Sun”. Overall, LYRQ’s ability to captivate the audience with her strong vocals
and catchy melodies allowed her to instantly gain new fans.
As her last song “Are You The One” came
to a close, LYRQ took time to thank Skip Marley for the amazing opportunity, as well as her
family and best friends for their unwavering support and the London audience for being such a
class act. She stated “Guys, this is actually my first international artist concert. We don’t have as
many concerts like this one back on my island. So Thank You for sharing space with me and
giving me those beautiful smiles”
As fate would have it, Joseph actually received this special opportunity to perform through her
own manifestations. While in between songs, the singer-songwriter stated “This was actually one
of the biggest dreams of mine. By putting a comment on Skip (Marley’s) page, I was invited to
open up for him tonight! So I am beyond the moon!” Joseph had previously stated that Marley
was one of the artists she had added to a 2021 list that she’d wanted to work with and meet in
person.
Following the show, LYRQ was praised by concert goers and new fans alike, took pictures and
even got the opportunity to converse with the show’s headliner, Marley about her performance,
collaborations and future shows.
When asked about how she felt after performing and meeting one of her current musical
inspirations, Joseph stated “The stage is a place that feels like home to me. It was nice to be
reminded of that and having encouragement come from an artist that I essentially listen to every
day. Skip’s kindness and invitation ignited the will in me to never give up on my dreams. While
this is a full circle moment it’s still unbelievable, but I will undoubtedly keep working towards
more unbelievable moments hopefully inspiring others to do the same.”
