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.
标签： Dominica
多米尼克
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STATEMENT: Update on the safety of Dominican students in Jamaica and Cuba
In response to the imminent threat posed by Hurricane Melissa, the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence of Dominica has been actively engaged in safeguarding its students abroad. Since Thursday, October 23rd, officials have maintained close contact with Dominican students in Jamaica, who have confirmed they are well-prepared, residing in secure accommodations, and equipped with sufficient supplies. The Ministry is also coordinating with the Students’ Association to address any needs highlighted in their assessment report. Additionally, the Dominican embassy in Cuba has been in communication with local authorities, who have implemented a special protection protocol for foreign students. Dominican students in Cuba have also initiated their own preparatory measures. The Government of Dominica remains vigilant, continuously monitoring the situation and maintaining open lines of communication with students and relevant authorities to ensure their safety and well-being.
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Silent mental health issues growing concern in younger Caribbean population, says regional study
A groundbreaking study has unveiled a concerning mental health crisis among children and teenagers across the Caribbean. The 2025 Caribbean Child and Youth Mental Health Research Study Report, a collaborative effort between the CARICOM Secretariat and UNICEF, reveals that a significant portion of young individuals are grappling with heightened symptoms of depression and anxiety. Conducted in 2024, the survey engaged over 1,500 participants from 17 countries and territories, shedding light on the mental health challenges faced by Caribbean youth. Key findings indicate that 58% of respondents feel a lack of hope about the future, 56% experience persistent worry, and 54% report feelings of sadness, depression, and hopelessness. The study’s results were presented during a virtual event on October 22, where Guyana’s Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Frank Anthony, emphasized the importance of these findings in addressing regional mental health issues. He highlighted Guyana’s ongoing efforts to tackle youth mental health and called for continued research and intervention. Hon. Steven Jacobs, Guyana’s Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, pointed to academic stress, unemployment, pandemic aftermath, and social media pressures as key contributors to the crisis. He urged collaborative efforts to implement preventive measures and early responses. Michele Small-Bartley, Programme Manager for Youth Development at CARICOM, outlined actionable recommendations, including improving access to mental health services, strengthening referral systems, and equipping parents and educators with tools to recognize mental distress. UNICEF’s Bertrand Moses shared resources developed in partnership with Caribbean youth, such as the Directory of Governmental Health Services on the Young Caribbean Minds website, offering country-specific mental health support. The full report and resources are available for download, providing a foundation for targeted interventions to support Caribbean youth.
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Trilla-G bets on himself with debut album ‘Take Me as I Am: The Album’
Dominican Bouyon artist Trilla-G has officially launched his debut album, *Take Me as I Am: The Album*, marking a pivotal moment in his musical journey. Released on October 22, 2025, the 13-track project showcases Trilla-G’s artistic versatility, depth, and innovative approach to the Bouyon genre. The album, which follows the success of his lead single “Take Me as I Am (Remix)4,” has already garnered over one million views on YouTube since its September 2024 debut. Trilla-G describes the album as a deliberate effort to reveal his multifaceted artistic identity while pushing the boundaries of Bouyon music. Recorded at Th3rdHouse Studios in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the album features collaborations with prominent regional artists, including Grenadian Cultural Ambassador V’ghn, Jamaican sensation Stalk Ashley, and Dominica’s Ridge. Production credits span across the Caribbean and beyond, with contributions from Dominica’s Mask Man, Canada’s Hxnter, and St. Maarten’s Xavvo. Trilla-G’s performances at major Caribbean festivals, such as Miami Carnival and the World Creole Music Festival, have solidified his reputation as a dynamic entertainer. With *Take Me as I Am*, Trilla-G aims to elevate his career and contribute to the global recognition of Bouyon music. The album is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, and YouTube.
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Acting Superintendent lays out alternate routes for WCMF25
In preparation for the 25th Edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), Acting Superintendent of Police Delvin Jno Lewis has unveiled comprehensive traffic and vending arrangements to ensure a smooth and safe event. The festival, scheduled from October 24 to October 26, will see significant changes in parking and access across key areas in the city.
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Venue Operations Center part of police coordination for WCMF25
In preparation for the 25th Edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Alleyne Maximea has unveiled comprehensive security and operational plans to ensure a safe and seamless experience for attendees. A Venue Operation Center will be established at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium, staffed by senior officials from various institutions, including the Discover Dominica Authority. Additionally, a police command center will be set up at the Volcanoes’ office on the ground floor of the Clem John and Kelleb Laurent stand to provide immediate assistance to patrons. The festival venue has been divided into three zones: Zone 1 for entry and exit gates, Zone 2 for the media center, party area, stage area, and backstage, and Zone 3 for the front stage and players’ pavilion. Access to these zones will be restricted to individuals with the appropriate passes. Four pre-screening areas will be set up at Hillsborough Street, Bath Road, Cork Street, Kennedy Avenue, and River Street, where officers will verify tickets and accreditation before allowing entry. ACP Maximea emphasized the importance of patrons arriving at the correct gate to expedite processing. He also issued a stern warning against bringing prohibited items, including firearms, ammunition, illegal drugs, knives, and other offensive weapons, urging attendees to leave such items at home to avoid embarrassment or legal issues. Furthermore, a significant police presence will be deployed to secure entrances and exits, manage traffic in Roseau, and conduct island-wide patrols during the festivities. The police have reported no serious incidents during this year’s independence celebrations, underscoring their commitment to maintaining safety.
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Latest Creole HeartBeat issue released just in time for World Creole Music Festival 2025
In a momentous celebration of cultural heritage, Creole HeartBeat has launched its 25th Anniversary Special Edition Magazine, coinciding with the opening night of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF25). This commemorative publication is a heartfelt tribute to the festival’s rich history, which has played a pivotal role in shaping Dominica’s cultural identity and fostering unity within the Creole community over the past quarter-century. The magazine serves as a bridge, connecting the past, present, and future of the Creole world, emphasizing that the festival is more than an event—it is a shared vision celebrating Creole heritage. Leroy “Wadix” Charles, the Creole Ambassador, remarked, “This publication reminds us that the World Creole Music Festival was not just an event, but a vision that celebrated who we are as Creole people.” The issue takes readers on a journey through the festival’s evolution, honoring its founders, artists, and cultural icons who have infused it with its unique spirit. It also chronicles the festival’s resilience through global challenges and its role in strengthening regional unity and Dominica’s tourism and creative economy. As WCMF25 kicks off, Creole HeartBeat urges all participants to reflect on the festival’s deeper significance, highlighting its role as a celebration of the Creole spirit. The 25th Anniversary Special Edition is available online, with limited printed copies offered during the festival weekend for those seeking a tangible keepsake of this historic milestone.
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COMMENTARY: World Creole Music Festival – Celebrating culture, heritage, and community
The World Creole Music Festival, a cornerstone of Dominica’s cultural identity, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the island’s cultural evolution. This premier event has solidified Dominica’s reputation as the Caribbean’s hub for Creole music and heritage, blending rhythm, language, and identity into a vibrant celebration that resonates both locally and globally.
The festival’s origins trace back to 1995, when the United Workers’ Party (UWP) government revitalized the vision for a cultural festival. The National Development Corporation (NDC) board, under the leadership of Chairman Oliver J. Seraphin, played a pivotal role in establishing the Cadence Festival, later known as the Cadence-Zouk Festival. Key contributors included prominent figures such as McCarthy Marie, Stanley Georges, and Sobers Esprit, who worked tirelessly to bring the festival to life. The establishment of the Dominica Festivals Commission in 1996 further institutionalized the event, ensuring its long-term success.
Over the years, the World Creole Music Festival has grown into a cultural phenomenon, attracting thousands of visitors annually and significantly boosting Dominica’s hospitality sector. Beyond its economic impact, the festival serves as a platform for preserving and promoting Creole music genres like Cadence-Lypso, Zouk, and Bouyon. It also fosters unity among Dominica’s diaspora and strengthens regional cultural ties.
As the festival looks to the future, there is a renewed focus on expanding its global vision. Proposals include incorporating Creole crafts, culinary showcases, and artisan markets to deepen its cultural reach. The event stands as a testament to collaboration, creativity, and community spirit, celebrating the shared identity of Creole communities worldwide.
Oliver J. Seraphin, a key architect of the festival, reflects on its legacy: ‘The World Creole Festival was born from a shared vision — to honor the richness of Creole culture and position Dominica as its global stage. Its legacy belongs to the people, artists, and visionaries who continue to nurture its spirit.’
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STATEMENT: Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) on the passing of Mr. Julius Timothy
The Commonwealth of Dominica is in mourning following the passing of Julius Timothy, a revered public servant, on October 19, 2025. Timothy, a multifaceted leader, dedicated his life to the betterment of Dominica through his contributions in business, politics, and governance. As the Managing Director of AC Shillingford and Company Limited, a prominent Roseau-based business, Timothy played a pivotal role in the island’s economic landscape. His political career was equally distinguished, serving as the Parliamentary Representative for the Roseau North Constituency from 1995 to 2014. During this period, he held the position of Minister of Finance, Industry, and Planning under the United Workers Party (UWP) administration from 1995 to 2000. In 2005, Timothy joined the Dominica Labour Party and was appointed as a Minister in the Roosevelt Skerrit-led administration, a role he held until 2014. Beyond politics, Timothy was a staunch advocate for industry and commerce, serving as President of the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC) and contributing to various statutory boards and committees, including the Credit Union Movement. A passionate sportsman, Timothy also made significant contributions to the development of sports on the island. The Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) has expressed its deepest condolences to Timothy’s family, friends, the staff of AC Shillingford and Company Limited, the people of the Roseau North Constituency, and the entire nation of Dominica. The DFP remembers Timothy as a selfless leader whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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Acting chief on this weekend’s festivities: No nonsense, no cannabis in public spaces
Acting Police Chief Lincoln Corbette has issued a stern warning to attendees of the 25th Edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) in Dominica, emphasizing that public smoking of cannabis will not be tolerated. The festival, known for its vibrant rhythms and cultural celebrations, is set to take place from October 24 to October 26 at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium, starting at 8:00 PM each night.
Corbette, in a recent press release, highlighted the police force’s annual mandate to ensure the safety and order of all festival activities. He assured the public of an increased police presence throughout the city, particularly around the event venue. ‘You will see more officers throughout the city,’ he stated. ‘We won’t tolerate any nonsense at the festival. If you break the law, it’s very likely you’ll find yourself arrested and detained until the end of the events.’
The acting chief also reminded attendees that while individuals are permitted to carry up to 28 grams of cannabis, smoking it in public remains illegal. ‘In Dominica, you have the privilege to smoke in the privacy of your home, but not in public spaces,’ he explained. ‘Officers will approach you and deal with you according to the law if you insist on smoking in public.’
Additionally, Corbette called for public cooperation, especially given the expected traffic congestion during the festival. He urged attendees to enjoy the event in a ‘clean, peaceful atmosphere,’ emphasizing the importance of maintaining order and safety for all participants.