Hockaday pairs Caribbean food and live music at Bull Bay in Wilmington
The experience of a well-cooked meal and live music is a harmony for the senses which is why they often are paired together. One of Wilmington’s newest restaurants is banking on that combination and one of Delaware’s most well-known local rappers.
Bull Bay Caribbean Cuisine in downtown Wilmington took over a bustling corner location on Ninth and Orange streets, which was previously the R Lounge. The restaurant, which has been open for only a couple months, has teamed up with Wilmington's Hockaday to present a concert this Friday.
Rapper Hockaday is no stranger to throwing events in the city. Last year his “Diamond Love” open mic was a weekly event at Bobbi Rhian’s where artists could freely share their talent.
This time around, Hockaday will hand-pick guest artists to perform while attendees enjoy some of the best Jamaican cuisines in the state. This week’s event will feature a set from Hockaday himself along with Jahiti of the legendary group Brown FISH, out of Baltimore. Hockaday hopes to make the event a monthly one with a different artist each time.
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Hockaday spoke about on why Bull Bay was the best location for his concert and why good hip-hop and soul go so well with amazing food.
Q: So you have been doing events for a while in the city. Why was Bull Bay your choice this time around?
A: It really about the ambiance that makes it perfect. The feel of this event is going to be hip-hop, soul, and R&B all rolled into one. Also, they have two floors available so you can eat in peace or enjoy the show up close and personal.
Q: Why is food and live music such a perfect match?
A: Because you are using all the senses -- Watching, listening, and tasting all at the same time. Food and music and the basis of many cultures. When exploring other countries most people eat the food and listen to their music, along with other art forms. There is a reason it's called culinary arts. Music is art and so is food. It's all about the experience.
Q: What is the type of artist you will be bringing to your event?
A: That can vary. It's really about whatever I feel is right for the experience and energy of the show. It's called Hockaday and friends for a reason, and that’s because I have a lot of friends (laughs). I look forward to having a very diverse group of artists but even when people show up I may let them perform too, almost like an open mic setting. Again, it's all about the energy and feel of the event.
Q: Do you feel there's is not enough to do in the city for musicians and music lovers?
A: I feel like Delaware has always had that problem. Places come and go and it can be a hard to find a consistent place to enjoy good live music. Delaware has a lot to offer when it comes to talent and we have to support each other. That's another reason I picked Bull Bay. I like to support black-owned business, especially here in Delaware.
Q: So have you been working on any music personally?
A: Yeah, I am actually working on a new album that I'm hoping to drop possibly this fall. I can't currently release too many details but the producer is in the Grammy family.
Q: Wow, exciting. What do you hope that people experience on Friday that will keep them coming back for more?
A: I think the positive energy, great music, and delicious food will be the x-factor. I have always had positive energy at all my past events and never one problem or issue so I just want this to be a safe place for people to come and witness... Jamaican culture, and hip-hop culture.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Hockaday & Friends featuring Jahiti of Brown Fish, Hosted by Akin The Prophet
WHERE: Bull Bay Caribbean Cuisine 908 N. Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19808
WHEN: Friday, July 28th, 2017
COST: $10 advanced tickets, $20 at the door