The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) is moving forward with a targeted, longstanding pledge to grow and elevate the country’s burgeoning music ecosystem, forging a new strategic partnership with celebrated Caribbean music producer and songwriter Kitwana Israel, founder of AdvoKit Productions.
Boasting more than 10 years of hands-on professional experience in the global music space, Israel brings a deep well of industry expertise and extensive cross-regional connections to the collaborative initiative. Having built his career delivering projects across the Caribbean, the United States, and continental Africa, he has earned widespread acclaim for crafting high-caliber, culturally rooted music that connects with audiences both at home and across international markets.
Israel’s production discography reads as a who’s who of modern Caribbean hitmaking. His standout credits include *Ola (Kan Kan Riddim)* performed by Olatunji Yearwood, *Hello (Folklore Riddim)* from Kes, and *Buss Head*, a fan-favorite collaboration between Machel Montano and Bunji Garlin. He has also produced charting tracks including *Tender* and *Anxiety* for Patrice Roberts, *DAP (Drink and Party)* for Viking Ding Dong, *Come Home* for the pairing of Nailah Blackman and Skinny Fabulous, and *Take Me Home* for Trinidadian collective Freetown Collective. Most recently, he released *Doux Darlin* for rising artist Christo, a project that has further solidified his reputation as a leading architect of contemporary Caribbean sound.
In comments on the new partnership, Israel opened up about his current work on the island, where he is already collaborating with local creators to develop a custom rhythm crafted exclusively for the annual Antigua Carnival. The core goal of the project, he explained, is to center the distinct sound and identity of Antiguan music on a global stage. “Being here and working in the same space with local artistes like Tian and DJ Quest has been an incredible experience,” Israel said. “There’s a unique energy that can’t be replicated anywhere else, and we’re channelling that into music that can resonate not only in Antigua but across the Caribbean and internationally. This project is about creating timeless music that reflects the culture, the people, and the spirit of the island.”
ABFC Chairperson Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul reiterated the commission’s unwavering commitment to investing in the country’s creative economy, echoing the priorities laid out by national leadership. Minister Daryll S. Matthew, who serves in the Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, highlighted why cross-sector partnerships like this one are foundational to the future of Antigua and Barbuda’s creative sector.
“Investing in our creative industries is critical to national development and levelling up our artistes,” Matthew explained. He noted that this collaboration builds on a successful track record of empowering local talent, pointing to 2023’s Music Producers’ Masterclass: Audio Essentials, led by industry veteran Kasey Phillips. That initiative, like the new partnership with Israel, was designed to upskill local creators, strengthen the domestic music ecosystem, and build pathways for long-term, sustainable growth for the sector.
“By facilitating knowledge transfer and real-time collaboration, we are ensuring that our creatives are equipped with the tools and exposure needed to succeed beyond our shores,” Matthew added.