By Lesroy W. Williams

Observer Reporter

(Basseterre, St. Kitts) - The 12th Annual Music Festival is six days away from starting. The event takes place from June 26-28 at the Warner Park Football Stadium.

A powerful lineup of musical stars will be on hand to showcase their talent in what event organizers say will be a hit and serve as a catalyst to boost tourism.

"2008 is a year of significant achievement for our nation, celebrating 25 years of independence.  As a precursor to this historic event, the St. Kitts Music Festival will capture the 'magic of music' combining the vitality of youth with the mellowed glow of legendary artists," Mr. Allister Williams, CEO of the St. Kitts Music Festival, said at a press conference earlier this year.

This year the diverse line-up will showcase different genres of music.

On Thursday June 26, the line up of artists includes Kassav, Calypso Rose, Shadow, El A Kru, Roy Cape All Stars, Shurwayne Winchester, Grandmasters Band and Nu Vybes Band International.

On Friday June 27, the artists are as follows: Billy Ocean, Macka Diamond, Pluto Shervington, Ernie Smith, Boris Gardener, Pressure, Busy Signal, Mykal Somer and Kasanova Band.

On Saturday June 28, the Music Festival comes to an end with performances from John Legend, Ja Rule, Mario, Russell Thomkins Jr (and the new stylistics), Kenrick Georges (and bits and pieces), Paul Peress All Stars, Brenda Russell, Phill Perry, Tom Scott and Tah Mac.

For more information about the Music Festival you can log on to www.stkittsmusicfestival.com where you can go and enter to win tickets.