Cleveland Laing, A.K.A Lieutenant Stitchie

Sitting in the Brand New Life Christian Center in April 2006, I gazed upon the chairs, pulpit, and an array of pianos, drums, and trumpets. The praise and worship team was leading us in songs of worship. An excitement was building because I knew it was not just any ordinary concert; it was the day one of my favorite artists, Cleveland Laing, also known as Lieutenant Stitchie was going to perform. I counted each song we sang and how many people performed before it was Lt. Stitchie’s turn to thrill us with heart-stopping, soul-filling reggae gospel music. Everyone stood tense as they awaited his performance. The seats were filled, with even more people crowding the back and the sides of the church. Finally, the last amateur performance ended and it was time!

As Apostle Earl Palmer introduced Cleveland Laing to the members and visitors at the church, Lt. Stitchie ran through the doors on the right side of the stage. As he jumped up and down in a brown pantsuit, his genuine silver watch caught the light on his wrist and matching alligator shoes while he performed his hit song, “Fast and Pray.” His wife, Sophia Laing, stood nearby for support and performed as his backup singer. When I saw him burst through the doors, I sprang out of my seat and started to clap, shout, jump, and dance. I sang loudly above the roaring of the crowd.

I idolize Lt. Stitchie because he is an inspiration to many. His songs have led over two hundred souls to the kingdom of God, including his own brother and his brother’s wife. Lt. Stitchie’s song “Fast and Pray” is a transformational song, and the lyrics have led even his friends in the reggae/dancehall industry to embrace Christ. I have been to many concerts before, but this concert was exciting. I sang at the top of my voice, ecstatic, energetic, and, as many people would say, on cloud nine. I have no recollection of anyone more vivacious than me; it felt like I was on stage performing with Lt. Stitchie.