DK replies on ‘Hits of Yesteryear’ debacle

It was with much regret that I read the letter written by B.C.Paul of Colombo which was published on the 9th of September in the T.V. times, concerning D.K. Promotions. Having read the write up on my return, from overseas, I was absolutely shocked at the contents. I wish to bring the following clarifications for the benefit of the readers.

Firstly, the only point which could be considered as constructive and relevant to the show. I acknowledge the fact that there was a problem with the sound, especially with the P.A. system. This had an overall affect on the show which reflected on the performance of all artistes. Although the show commenced 30 minutes late, the extension of the show was due to the fact Joey Lewis's performance( Hits of Yesteryear- BMICH on Aug 25), which was a last minute inclusion, lasted almost 40 minutes. Joey performed exceptionally well, and it was worth the wait and much appreciated by the audience.

The rest of the contents in B.C. Paul's letter were an attack on me. The duet 'Somewhere between' had been performed by me on several occasions. First with Darleen, and then with Mariazelle.

With all due respect to Daniel O' Donnell, on all occasions my singing the duet had been well received. May I also quote Sudhu of Ultimate did the harmony, and I did the actual singing and not merely "mouth the words" The song" I need you" [not honest I do] was sung as a special request by a person who had been present at a previous show where I performed the same.

My performance at the show was not mentioned in any of the pre advertising done for the show, and was a decision taken during rehearsals. Also I have performed at a few shows prior to this and my singing had been appreciated by those present. Thus I do not think you spent your hard earned money to see me performing. !!!

I do not see the relevance of any comments on the Cliff Richard show, almost six months after the event. Any way for the benefit of the readers may I quote SLECC has a total clearance of 15 ' and Multi Media Screens could not have been suspended. In fact all International Artists provide a technical rider prior to the show, which had to be adhered to, and there was no provision for such projectors at a venue such as SLECC [for an Indoor stadium or an out door event these are necessary.

Finally I wish to state that in the past six years I have presented approximately 40 shows, of which, some were very costly such as Sir Cliff's Concert. Jetliners, Spitfires and Amazing Grace re-union shows not forgetting the special tribute show for Vijaya Corea.

All these were done for the benefit of the music loving public of Sri Lanka,. besides heavy business commitments with my company where I function as Managing Director.