Noel Thompson, Hospitality Jamaica Writer

PHOTO BY HERBERT MCKENIS - Mackie Conscious on stage at Coral Gardens Groundation at the Caribbean Beach Park in Montego Bay on Good Friday, March 25, 2005.

SINGING SENSATION Dennis 'Mackie Conscious' McKay has returned to the island, fresh from a mini tour in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States, in time for yet another performance at Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest 2006.

Conscious, who is billed to perform on the internationally acclaimed event, will entertain his fans and of course newcomers for the seventh consecutive year. In an interview on Sunday, he told Hospitality Jamaica that he was very upbeat and optimistic about the event.

"This year is going to be a special one. As a son of Montego Bay with so many strong releases since 2006, which are heavily being rotated, I shall release a barrage of consciousness, which is much needed to make a difference in the lives of the youth in today's society," said Conscious.

Among the songs he has penned to date include Jah Is Right On Time, Can't Be A King and Nuh Royal, What if, Should I Run and the pre-release single Everybody, one of which is expected to be a hit.

Mackie Conscious is slated to perform on Friday, billed 'Ignition Night', and will share the stage with both international and local stars.