Tony Matterhorn (far left), friends and Chino (far right) hanging out at the Quad on Trinidad Terrace last Wednesday.

When you are a rising star you party like one, as was evident when THE STAR spent a night out with Chino. From 'Weddy Weddy' on Burlington Avenue to the Quad nightclub in New Kingston, Chino party-hopped until morning.

For Chino, partying is partially a business venture where the Big Ship management and artiste team go out to make links with fellow artistes, selectors and promoters.

Surrounded by an entourage of friends, management and fellow label mate Laden, Chino strolled into Stone Love Headquarters for Weddy Weddy after 1 a.m. heading for a spot by the bar.

Beenie chills with Chino

The presence of the Big Ship family in the event was soon noticed as the selectors welcomed them to the dance. Beenie Man also made an appearance as he too chilled with Chino and his crew, dancing up a storm to Elephant Man's Dip Again.

Soon, Portmore Empire's Blak Ryno's cry for 'see it deh' announced his presence at the venue for a brief stint on stage, as Chino and Laden followed, to the surprise of patrons. This was Chino's first time performing at 'Weddy Weddy'."It was just a spur of the moment ting, when yuh feel di vibe yuh just touch di stage and do a spontaneous performance."

The audience definitely appreciated Chino, who 'wowed' with songs such as Ruff It Up and Tings Dem Tall, to huge forwards. Laden, too, created a stir with his hit Time to Shine and others. After hitting the stage they quickly left for the next event, Retro Wednesdays at Quad.

Star treatment

At Quad, the Big Ship crew was given the star treatment, taking pictures at the entrance before making their way upstairs to find a spot in front of the selector's booth where ZJ Liquid and DJ Jigga were stationed.

Liquid kept the dancehall vibe going strong with a number of Stephen McGregor's rhythms that got many forwards during the night, especially the 'Day Rave' rhythm. As with Weddy Weddy, Chino was soon noticed and 'bigged-up' by the selectors.

A round of drinks was ordered as everyone partied and danced, and as usual, a few women in the club kept an eager eye on Chino. After 5 a.m., the Big Ship finally called it a night.

Chino giving an impromptu performance at 'Weddy Weddy' held at the Stone Love HQ on Burlington Avenue on Wednesday November 12, 2008. Looking on is Portmore Empire artiste, Blak Ryno. - nathaniel stewart PHOTOS