Brooklyn, NY – Jamaican singer and actress Sevana delivered a captivating unplugged performance at Damballa music bar on October 11, 2025, enchanting the Brooklyn audience with her soulful delivery and commanding stage presence. The event, a testament to the growing influence of Caribbean music in urban centers, showcased Sevana’s versatility and artistic depth.
The Rise of a Jamaican Star
Anna-Sharé Blake, professionally known as Sevana, has steadily carved out a significant niche in the global music scene. Born in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, her journey in music began at a young age. In 2008, she was part of the girl group SLR, which achieved a third-place finish in Jamaica’s popular Digicel Rising Stars competition. This early exposure paved the way for future opportunities, including collaborations with fellow Jamaican artist Protoje, which introduced her to wider international audiences.
Sevana’s solo career has been marked by a unique blend of R&B, soul, and the tropical rhythms of her Caribbean heritage. She released her self-titled EP in 2016 and later made her major label debut with the EP “Be Somebody” in 2020, which was lauded for its “sultry vocals and strong musical range”. Beyond her musical endeavors, Sevana has also proven her mettle as an actress, starring in the Jamaican web series “Losing Patience” and being cast as Judy Mowatt in the 2024 biopic “Bob Marley: One Love”. Her artistic versatility underscores her status as a prominent figure in contemporary Jamaican entertainment.
An Intimate Brooklyn Evening
The unplugged set at Damballa provided an intimate setting for Sevana to connect directly with her Brooklyn fans. During the performance, she treated the audience to a selection of her popular songs, including the soulful “Blessed,” the introspective “Bit Too Shy,” and the evocative “Mango”. The stripped-down nature of the performance allowed Sevana’s powerful vocals and lyrical storytelling to take center stage, creating a deeply resonant experience for those in attendance.
A Collaborative Creative Vision
The visual and stylistic elements of the performance were curated by a talented team, enhancing the overall artistic impact. The performance was styled by acclaimed Jamaican stylist Kadeem Rodgers, known for his work in fashion editorials and his distinctive approach to style. Assisting in this creative endeavor was NYC-based artist Emani Edwards. The visual narrative of the evening was further amplified by the work of Alexander Wong, a multidisciplinary artistic director with Jamaican roots who is based in New York. Wong, who has applied his design thinking to explore the intersection of culture and design, lensed the performance, contributing to its aesthetic coherence.
Brooklyn: A Hub for Caribbean Music and Culture
Sevana’s performance in Brooklyn further solidifies the borough’s reputation as a vital center for Caribbean culture and music in the United States. Brooklyn boasts a rich tapestry of reggae clubs, soca parties, and Caribbean music events, offering a vibrant platform for artists from across the islands. The first-ever Caribbean Music Awards were held in Brooklyn in August 2023, highlighting the community’s commitment to celebrating and elevating Caribbean artistry. Sevana’s presence at Damballa is a significant addition to this ongoing cultural narrative, bringing her unique brand of music to an eager audience.
Style and Substance
Beyond the music, the event also garnered attention for its fashion moments. Notably, actress Jodie Turner-Smith was observed, alongside stylist Law Roach, contributing to the event’s fashion discourse, as was fashion creative Tamu McPherson, who showcased a stylish bob hairstyle. These elements, combined with Sevana’s artistic presentation, underscore the holistic approach to performance and cultural expression that is becoming increasingly prominent.
Sevana’s unplugged show at Damballa served as more than just a concert; it was a multifaceted artistic statement. By delivering a powerful musical performance while supported by a team of creative collaborators and within the culturally rich landscape of Brooklyn, Sevana reaffirmed her position as a dynamic force in the contemporary music news cycle, connecting with audiences through authentic artistry and undeniable talent.