Sadeke Brooks, Staff Reporter

Preparation to thrill a crowd on stage varies from artiste to artiste.

Some are able to give performances that are beyond expectations, while others simply flop. However, the main factor that may determine an exciting show is the level of preparation that takes place.

Energetic artistes like I Octane say there is no special remedy. "Mi just have a mind frame seh a di last show on Earth and mi block all negativity weh might surround me at the moment," he told The STAR.

He added: "Mi nuh smoke and mi nuh drink alcohol. ... Mi always exercise, so me have stamina."

For D'Angel, her preparation involves having her room-temperature water, clean white towels and fruits. Her family and friends also help in the preparation process.

"I usually go to the shows with my family and friends so I drop the show in front of them before I reach the venue," said D'Angel, adding that she tries to eliminate all negativity around her and limits her talking as part of the process.

runs regularly

Like D'Angel, Serani says drinking water before and during his performances is important. But it is exercise that gives him the extra boost.

"I exercise every day and that in itself tek a lot of energy. I stretch before I go on stage. I run regularly and do my push-ups. You have to keep moving 'cause people feed off your energy," Serani told The STAR.

comes naturally

In addition, Serani says he practises with his band or prepares his CD, depending on the type of show.

Unlike the current crop of dancehall and reggae artistes, veteran singer George Nooks says most of what he does comes naturally.

"Mi nuh do nutten really. Mi just meditate and keep a cool head and do what I'm gonna do. Nutten special, just rehearse and it comes naturally. I drink a little water to clear my throat but I have been doing this for so long that it comes naturally," George Nooks said.