performed a wide range of hits, from the Cuban classic “Guantanamera” to his memorable hit duet with Mary J. Blige “Call 911.” The crowd swayed back and forth and
sang along to every tune.
Clef refused to allow the audience of executives and professionals to stay buttoned-up and proper. On a balmy close of summer night, he brought the energy of the islands and the bounce of Brooklyn to the Black Enterprise / Pepsi Golf & Tennis Challenge at the J.W. Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla.
“I want everybody to get your hands up,” the Grammy Award winner shouted. “If you’re black and you’re making money — make some noise!”
Jean kept the audience engaged and brought several audience members onstage to join in the revelry. A young boy helped bring the audience to their feet, and several ladies whipped towels over their heads as Jean led the audience in a Carribean party chant. Most notably, Patrick Malcolm, CEO of burgeoning healthy children’s water brand Waterlicious Inc., took the microphone in an impromptu reggae performance that brought the house down.
“You just got a free commercial.” Wyclef told the businessman, who repeatedly chanted “Waterlicious,” to the adoring crowd. “Everybody’s gonna leave here going ‘Waterlicious, Waterlicious.’ ” This was a perfect example of how the Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge was not only fun and relaxing, but held opportunities for the prepared businessperson. Wyclef Jean was also a perfect example, showing that hip-hop performers can do more than just walk from one side of the stage to the next and wave their hands — they can also be engaging, charismatic and dynamic.
–todd williams
