Jamaican singer and actress Sevana delivered a captivating and intimate unplugged performance at Damballa music bar in Brooklyn, New York, on Saturday, October 11, 2025. The event offered a unique opportunity for the audience to connect with the artist’s rich vocal talent and heartfelt songwriting in a stripped-down setting. This performance marks another significant moment for Sevana as she continues to solidify her presence in the international music scene, resonating with the vibrant Caribbean diaspora in New York.
Sevana: A Journey of Sound and Soul
Born Anna-Sharé Blake in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, Sevana has emerged as a prominent voice in contemporary Caribbean music. Her journey began with early musical inclinations, leading her to form the girl group SLR, which achieved third place on Jamaica’s Digicel Rising Stars competition in 2008. After a hiatus, Sevana re-entered the music scene, gaining wider recognition through collaborations with reggae luminary Protoje, notably on his 2014 album “Ancient Future.” Her subsequent releases, including her self-titled EP in 2016 and the “Be Somebody” EP in 2020, have showcased her versatility, blending soulful R&B, classic soul, and dancehall influences with her distinctly Jamaican sonic filter. Sevana herself describes her sound as “every sound but with a Jamaican filter,” aiming to create a unique legacy. She identifies more as a Jamaican artist than solely a reggae artist, emphasizing her commitment to honoring the authentic sound that emerges from her. Her music often carries themes of self-love, personal growth, and empowerment, resonating deeply with her listeners.
Damballa: Brooklyn’s New Cultural Hub
The chosen venue, Damballa, is a relatively new addition to Brooklyn’s dynamic cultural landscape, having officially opened its doors in January 2025. Situated on the border of Bushwick and Bed-Stuy, the music bar, co-founded by the team behind the acclaimed Cafe Erzulie, aims to be a sanctuary for “Black” music genres, including amapiano, reggae, hip-hop, and rap, all delivered through a bespoke sound system. Named after a powerful spirit in Haitian voodoo traditions, Damballa fosters an atmosphere that is both intimate and energetic, designed to immerse patrons in the music. Its cozy interior and intentional sound design create an ideal setting for experiencing live performances that highlight the artistry of the musicians.
An Intimate Unplugged Experience
The decision to present an unplugged set allowed Sevana to showcase the raw power and emotional depth of her voice. Stripped of elaborate production, the focus shifted entirely to her vocal prowess and the lyrical narratives of her songs. Audiences were treated to performances of fan favorites such as “Blessed,” a testament to faith and life’s miracles, and the infectious love song “Mango.” Tracks like “Bit Too Shy,” known for its soulful delivery, likely also featured, offering an intimate glimpse into Sevana’s artistry. The unplugged format fostered a direct connection between Sevana and the Brooklyn audience, creating a memorable and personal concert experience that transcended typical live music events.
Artistic Collaboration: Styling and Visuals
The visual presentation of the evening was thoughtfully curated, with Jamaican stylist Kadeem Rodgers responsible for Sevana’s ensemble. [Initial Context] Complementing the performance, Jamaican-born, San Francisco-trained visual artist Alexander Wong was on hand to capture the essence of the night through his photography. [Initial Context, 19] Wong, an Artistic Director and Imagemaker based in New York City, is known for his ability to capture meaningful representation and moments through his lens, adding another layer of artistry to the news coverage of the event.
Conclusion
Sevana’s unplugged performance at Damballa was more than just a concert; it was a declaration of her artistry and a celebration of Caribbean music’s enduring influence. The intimate setting of the Brooklyn venue provided the perfect backdrop for Sevana to connect with her audience on a profound level, highlighting her vocal talent and lyrical depth. As Sevana continues to evolve, this performance serves as a powerful reminder of her ability to command a stage, whether amplified or acoustic, and her significant contribution to the contemporary music landscape.