Dominica’s legendary local music scene is set to celebrate one of its most influential acts this October, as community organizers prepare a benefit concert to support former members of the iconic band Belles Combo. Scheduled to kick off at 9:00 PM on October 3 at Zaman Park in Belfast, Mahaut, the Belles Combo Benefit Concert has been organized by the volunteer group Friends of Belles Combo, with a dual mission: to honor the decades of cultural contributions the band made to the island, and to raise critical financial support for four former group members – three musicians and one road crew member.
The story of Belles Combo stretches back more than 60 years, rooted in the 1960s when the ensemble first formed under the name the Embers to meet growing demand for live local entertainment. Drawing its early membership from young people across the Mahaut and Massacre communities, the group rebranded to Belles Combo under the leadership of the multi-talented Michael “Mike” Moreau, quickly building a reputation for its versatility across a wide range of musical genres. What began as a local act soon grew into a cultural ambassador for Dominica, bringing the island’s distinctive Creole music to audiences far beyond its shores: over its 30-plus year run, the band toured extensively across the Caribbean, and made stops in Canada, the United States, and Colombia, carrying the pride of the Mahaut community and Dominican culture to international audiences.
During its active decades, Belles Combo cemented its legacy in recorded music as well, releasing three full-length LPs and multiple hit singles. Decades after the band’s active run, many of its recordings still receive regular airplay across Dominica and the French West Indies, a testament to the enduring popularity of its work. For generations of Dominican listeners, the band’s music was more than entertainment – it was a unifying force that fostered deep community pride across the island’s towns and villages.
This upcoming benefit concert will bring together a dynamic lineup that honors Belles Combo’s cross-generational impact, blending performances from veteran Dominican acts and rising contemporary artists. Confirmed performers include the First Serenade Band featuring Senator Joey and Gerry Lloyd, White Fayrie, Janet Azouz, Derek Peter, Colton T, the Swinging Stars, Linford John of Bill-O-Men fame, Julien “Caribbean Cowboy” Riviere, Midnight Groovers, the Belles Combo Tribute Band, and local DJ Rio.
All proceeds from the event – including ticket sales, on-site donations, individual contributions, and other event revenue – will be directed to the four intended beneficiaries. Organizers plan to present the raised funds at a dedicated follow-up event after the concert concludes. For fans unable to attend the concert, including members of the Dominican diaspora, an exclusive contribution account has been set up in partnership with the Mahaut/Jimmit/Tarreau Village Council to accept additional donations. Donations can be sent via MoBanking to NBD Account No. 100035234, using ID No. 5553727, and the account will remain open for contributions through November 23, 2026.
Tickets for the event are priced at $30 for general admission and $150 for VIP access, and are available for purchase at multiple locations across Dominica: J&M Enterprises on Campbell Road, Convenience Plus, Majic Mart, the Mahaut/Jimmit/Tarreau Village Council in Mahaut, and Bull’s Eye Pharmacy in Goodwill. Organizers are urging all music lovers across Dominica and visitors to the island to join in the celebration, turning out to recognize Belles Combo’s decades of cultural contribution and support the former members who brought joy and pride to generations of fans. Anyone seeking additional information about the concert can reach organizer Sobers Esprit at 767-245-0431 or [email protected].