Derrick ‘Rah’ Peters, a pivotal figure in the development of Bouyon music, recently shared insights into the genre’s African roots and its global ascent during an interview on the Mornin’ Barbados program. Peters, whose musical journey began at the age of two, recounted his early fascination with percussion instruments, even crafting homemade drums due to limited resources. Influenced by Caribbean and African sounds like kompa, reggae, kadans, soca, and calypso, Peters’ unique musical style began to take shape in his formative years. In the late 1980s, Peters joined forces with the Windward Caribbean Kulture (WCK) band, including keyboardist Cornell Phillips, marking the genesis of Bouyon. This genre, akin to a ‘soup’ or ‘stew,’ blends diverse rhythms while honoring traditional Dominican sounds and the cultural heritage of the Kalinago people. Peters emphasized the importance of originality, stating, ‘I didn’t want to be a copycat.’ Early hits like ‘Culture Clash’ and ‘Conch Shell’ showcased the genre’s distinctive fusion, with the latter introducing the lapo kabwit drum sound to a broader audience. Bouyon’s evolution continued with influences from salsa and hip-hop, always rooted in African traditions. The band’s 1995 album ‘To Chou To Flam,’ featuring the hit ‘Balance Batty,’ cemented Bouyon’s regional popularity. Peters also highlighted the genre’s enduring appeal, attributing it to its African heritage and the deliberate craftsmanship behind its creation. Looking to the future, Peters expressed pride in his son, Ajmal ‘Skyo’ Peters, who is carrying forward the musical legacy. Peters concluded with a call to preserve Bouyon’s roots while embracing innovation, ensuring the genre’s continued strength and relevance.