The Belle Vue Jounen Kwéyòl Committee has unveiled plans for a spectacular start to this year’s Creole Heritage Month celebrations, honoring one of Saint Lucia’s most cherished musical legends, Gregory Sinaise. The festivities will commence with a free, open-air tribute concert on September 28, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Belle Vue Combined School in Vieux Fort. The event promises to be a heartfelt celebration of Sinaise’s enduring legacy in Saint Lucian culture. Committee spokesperson Kendall Elva emphasized the significance of the tribute, stating, ‘The objective is to highlight and celebrate the rich and proud contribution that Gregory Sinaise has made to the cultural landscape of Belle Vue and Saint Lucia by extension.’ Sinaise, a 60-year-old Belle Vue native, is renowned for his electrifying stage performances and socially conscious lyrics. He has been the lead vocalist for several prominent musical groups, including David Roots, African Roots, Solutions, and Mistè Lokal. His music has become a staple at cultural events such as Jounen Kwéyòl, Jazz, and Oktoberfest en Kwéyòl. Sinaise’s most popular tracks, including ‘Lakouyonte,’ ‘Souko,’ and ‘Ti Kesyon,’ have cemented his status as a cultural icon. He is also a two-time winner of the National Creole Singing Competition in 2014 and 2015. Elva praised Sinaise not only for his musical talent but also for his unwavering commitment to the community. ‘Whenever you call on Gaggary to perform at a show in Belle Vue — even when there is no money, he is always willing to perform,’ Elva noted. ‘He gives off his talent for the betterment of the community of Belle Vue.’ The tribute concert will feature a stellar lineup of Saint Lucian performers, including Avot Sevis, Escape Band, Asiswatin, and Inventions Band. Traditional quadrille performances and folk dances by the Belle Talent Dancers, Vieux North La Rose Group, and Belle Vue Children’s Dance Group will also grace the event. The Belle Vue Jounen Kwéyòl Committee is renowned for honoring cultural icons during their lifetime, a tradition that reflects the community’s values. Elva expressed that the upcoming tribute is a chance to show Sinaise the depth of their appreciation. ‘We are known for not having a dead hero society. We are known for recognising and saying thank you to all of our cultural icons who have made a contribution,’ Elva said. ‘Gregory, we love you, and we appreciate all that you have done for us as the people of Belle Vue and Saint Lucia by extension.’