Stars on the stage and stars in the sky – that’s the tantalising promise as top Bahamian and international artists gather for the debut John Watling’s Jam.
Performers include international stars Natalie La Rose, famous for her hit Somebody, as well as DJ, singer and dazzling violinist Anaya, who has performed with Lil Yachty and Snoop Dogg, while Sherwood Rahming brings the local flavour to the decks with Goombay House.
Dutch multi-platinum singer, songwriter, DJ and dancer Natalie La Rose has been back in the studio recently – and has worked around the world with acts such as Flo Rida and Fifth Harmony, as well as performances including Ellen, the Disney Music Awards, the Latin American Music Awards and The Late, Late Show with James Corden.
Esther Anaya has appeared on some of the greatest sporting stages as well as music stages – having been the official DJ for the LA Chargers at the 2023 Super Bowl, and with performances for FIFA as well as MLS side LA Galaxy and with Rihanna and Kanye at the NBA All-Star Game alongside major festivals such as EDC Mexico City and Baja Beach Fest.
Bahamian stars in the line-up include Lady E, fresh from the release of her new hit Regatta Time, Judah Tha Lion, Sweet Emily, Patrice Murrell, Vitamin G, and rising stars such as Naira Knox and Islha.
The concert on September 12, 2026, is in the beautiful surroundings of the Buena Vista Estate that John Watling’s Distillery calls home – tickets include an open bar with all of John Watling’s premium products, Kalik and Sands beer, and other premium spirits so your glass stays as full as the dance floor.
The event brings live performances to a new kind of venue for the Bahamian music scene – building on the success of the British Lion concert in April with Iron Maiden star Steve Harris. John Watling’s Jam puts the spotlight on both local and international performers and aims to be the first in a series of shows at the venue.
“This event really came from seeing an opportunity to bring great people, great talent and this breath-taking setting together to create something new,” said Paula Welch, Chief Operating Officer at Diane Phillips & Associates. “We have this amazing mix of international and Bahamian artists, the historic backdrop of Buena Vista, and teams that were excited to do something a little different. It creates another stage for these performers to shine, gives audiences a fresh way to experience live music, and adds something new to The Bahamas’ entertainment landscape. When the energies shine through from all these wonderful souls…that is when the magic happens!”
“And of course the open bar certainly adds fairy dust to the magic!.”
Event partner Linnea Levy, of Staniel Cay Concierge, sees the Jam as an opportunity to show the best of Bahamian culture.
“As someone with deep family roots in Staniel Cay, I see this event as part of a much bigger vision: using curated experiences to celebrate Bahamian culture, support our creatives, and position The Bahamas as a leading destination for music, art, hospitality, and connection. John Watling’s Jam is just the beginning of what I believe is possible,” said Linnea. “Through Staniel Cay Concierge, my mission has always been to curate experiences that honour those roots while opening the door for the world to experience them in a new way.”
Pepin Argamasilla, co-founder and managing partner of John Watling’s Distillery, welcomed the opportunity to host the event.
“Partnerships are the heart of what we do here at John Watling’s Distillery – it makes us all stronger when we work together – and this is a great example of that, bringing together the teams at DPA and Staniel Cay Concierge, our team here at the Buena Vista Estate, the vendors who will be there on the night and, more than that, the talented artists from both near and far who will take to the stage,” said Pepin. “Top talent from around the world, and brilliant Bahamian musicians – all under the stars here at John Watling’s where the bar is open, it’s a perfect example of partnership and a great way to help revitalise downtown.”
Tickets cost $95 for general admission, including the premium open bar and access to the full concert experience, food trucks,local vendors and secure parking at the Department of Public Service at Augusta and Delancy Street. VIP tickets cost $150 and also include an exclusive elevated viewing area with a direct view of the stage, air-conditioned space and VIP parking on-site and at St. John’s Baptist Cathedral and a private VIP open bar. Doors open at 6pm.
