分类： entertainment

The celebration of Creole Month in Saint Lucia is deeply intertwined with its vibrant music scene. The harmonious blend of melodious voices, rhythmic drums, and resonant stringed instruments creates an atmosphere that is distinctly Saint Lucian, unparalleled anywhere else in the world. However, the question arises: should these unique sounds be confined to just one day or month of celebration? Is there potential to expand the influence of Creole music beyond the annual Jounen Kwéyòl festivities? These were the central questions posed to two renowned music practitioners, Ronald ‘Boo’ Hinkson and Sly, during a recent interview with St. Lucia Times. Hinkson, a leading jazz musician in Saint Lucia, advocates for integrating Kwéyòl sounds into more sophisticated and globally appealing formats. He has personally embraced this approach by infusing Creole rhythms and melodies into his jazz compositions, resulting in a sound that is both unique and distinctly Saint Lucian. Hinkson emphasized the importance of maintaining this cultural identity, stating, ‘It’s not just important in today’s age, it’s always been important because it’s our identity. It is what makes us unique, is what is indigenous to us, it is what makes us who we are and for that reason, I believe we must never disconnect from it.’ He further highlighted the need for deliberate efforts to incorporate indigenous rhythms into contemporary music, suggesting that this could elevate Saint Lucian music to international acclaim, much like Reggae has for Jamaica or Bouyon for Dominica. Hinkson also pointed out that Saint Lucian rhythms are already influencing other cultures, citing the hit soca single ‘The Greatest Bend Over’ by Yung Bredda as an example. Sly, another prominent musician, underscored the profound impact of Creole musical instruments on Saint Lucian culture, particularly the tambo, which he described as ‘second to none.’ He called for greater creativity in integrating traditional instruments like the banjo into modern music, suggesting that this could bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary sounds. As Saint Lucia continues to export its culture on the global stage, music remains a dynamic and essential part of its national identity, transcending the island’s 238 square miles and resonating with audiences worldwide.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) unveiled the Lucian Carnival 2026 on the global stage during Miami’s Carnival celebrations last week. Held in Miami, Florida, the event marked a strategic effort to elevate the Lucian Carnival brand by showcasing the vibrant Dennery Segment, a musical genre deeply rooted in Saint Lucian culture. The genre, characterized by its fusion of English and Kwéyòl lyrics, has become synonymous with the island’s Carnival energy and cultural identity.

Three renowned Dennery Segment artists—DJ Sir Lancealot, Umpa, Blackboy, and Mighty—delivered electrifying performances that captivated the audience. Lancealot, credited with coining the term Dennery Segment, alongside Umpa, Blackboy, and Mighty, brought the infectious rhythms of Saint Lucia to life. Their performances not only thrilled the crowd but also highlighted the genre’s growing influence on regional and international Carnival scenes.

Geraine Georges, SLTA’s public relations manager, emphasized the strategic shift in promoting Lucian Carnival through its authentic music. “We recognize how the music has grown and how it excites regional and international carnivals,” Georges told St. Lucia Times. “What better way to showcase Lucian Carnival, which has grown tremendously, than through music that is authentically Saint Lucian?”

The event, attended by travel partners, media, and influencers, also featured Saint Lucian dancers demonstrating signature moves to the pulsating beats. The celebration continued at No Borders, an event showcasing Caribbean Soca artists, further amplifying the island’s cultural presence.

The culmination of Saint Lucia’s Miami Carnival participation was the Parade of Bands and mega concert on October 12 at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds. Umpa, Mighty, and Blackboy, backed by Lancealot and supported by Barry Hype, set the stage ablaze, with Saint Lucians in the crowd cheering passionately. Saint Lucia’s 2024 Groovy Monarch Nerdy and Arthur Allain, both veterans of past Lucian Carnival launches, also performed, adding to the event’s grandeur.

Brand Saint Lucia and Lucian Carnival were prominently featured on Revel Nation’s truck during the parade, further solidifying the island’s presence. The SLTA team, including Consul General Darrel Montrope and Director of Global Marketing Dexter Percil, fielded numerous inquiries about Saint Lucia and its Carnival, which were met with widespread recognition and enthusiasm.

Carnival enthusiasts from around the world expressed their admiration for Lucian Carnival, with many pledging to attend or return in the future. The event not only celebrated Saint Lucian culture but also positioned Lucian Carnival as a must-experience global phenomenon.

A new jewellery collection honoring Olympic gold medallist Julien Alfred has been unveiled, with proceeds set to support her charitable foundation. The Julien Alfred Legacy Collection, created by Eleanor Prospere, founder of Fearless Jewellery, was officially launched on October 11 during a fundraising event at BodyHoliday’s Firefly Villa. The collection, inspired by Alfred’s historic 100m victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics, features unisex macramé bracelets, earrings, and gold-plated necklaces and bracelets. Each piece incorporates elements of Saint Lucian identity, including the national flag, the map outline, and the marguerite flower. Prospere, a French-Saint Lucian designer, emphasized the collection’s dual purpose: celebrating Alfred’s achievements and promoting national pride. The project began after Prospere’s father tracked down Alfred and her manager, Henry Rolle, to secure their approval. Following a three-year collaboration agreement, Prospere meticulously designed and financed the collection, which includes 400 pieces. The designer also plans to expand the collection with Cuban link necklaces for men and matching pieces for women. Prospere, who shares a Saint Lucian heritage with Alfred, expressed her lifelong passion for jewellery design, which she has pursued for over 14 years.