By the Caribbean Journal staff

A group of music superstars will be headlining a concert to celebrate the 50th anniversary of St Maarten Carnival.

That includes Ashanti, Keyshia Cole and Ja Rule, who will take the stage at the “Soulful Company” concert.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first St Maarten Carnival, with this year’s fete set to take place from April 20 to May 7, with pre-Carnival activities having already kicked off.

St Maarten’s celebration is actually the longest carnival in the Caribbean, at 33 days.

“We’re so excited to welcome Ashanti, Keyshia Cole, and Ja Rule to St. Maarten,” said St Maarten Tourism Director May-Ling Chun. “To have these three artists, all who have impacted the international music scene on such a large scale, headline at the 50th anniversary of our renowned Carnival is a joy and an honor. We cannot wait to see the energy that they bring to the stage.”

The music legends will be joined by two of the island’s best young singers, Natisha Henson and Kenyo Baly.

“We have so many gifted musicians in St. Maarten, and to bring our island’s local musical talent together with these artists is sure to bring forth a unique, incredible concert,” said St Maarten Tourism Minister Stuart Johnson. What’s more, we look forward to the opportunities this collaboration will bring forth for these exceptional St Maarteners, and can’t wait to see them showcase their musical gifts on the main stage.”

— CJ