2012 WCMF Artistes Bios

Colton T

Colton “ColtonT” Thomas was born on December 7, 1991 in Dominica, music was always apart of Colton. However he got introduced to the performing art at age 15. The 5ft 4 simple but unique youngster was raised in a family home in Goodwill.

ColtonT as he is affectionately called, first started to perform at high schools and talent shows in his community and then got his break to perform at one of the country’s most prestigious events “Creole In The Park” where he made a valid contribution to the lineup with Bounty Killer & Kes The Band to name a few. From then on it was forward movements in building his career as an artist that young people can see as their role model.

He has since then made several appearances on stage in Dominica, and neighboring countries like Guadeloupe, Les Saint, Desirade and doing small live performances in club kubuli and purple lounge in Brooklyn Nyc.

The energetic but conscious artist always maintains that music is his life despite his childhood dreams of being a veterinarian. ColtonT describes his music as fun and youthful while at the same time signifying deep meaning. He has a passion for reggae and dancehall and writes his own music which are mainly stories that reflect his life which others can relate to.

The artiste began recording music at the So Sick Studio, with Kiidjay Triggah {producer} and was amazed at how he took to music and placed so much effort completing so many songs without even recognizing the amount of material he have however his explanation for this is “ For The Love Of Music.

While ColtonT has his unique style, artists such as  Jahcure, I’wayne, Damian Marley, Gregory Isaac, Sean Paul, Enrique Iglesias, Celine Dion has provided some level of inspiration to him in his musical career.

He first made a mix tape in 2010 named “ascendance”, with one of his most sentimental tunes being “Why should I”. Colton released several other much talked about tracks like “Can’t Be Friends”, “Everything & More” and I’ll Be There. He recently released a video that has also gained recognition on the local and regional markets. It is being aired on Hype Tv Jamaica, Carib Vision, RE Tv & local tv stations in his country.

ColtonT was once dubbed the “ghetto yute representor” by NewMusicZone because of how the young people responded to his music and how they supported him. However is known as the cutest ting because of his slogan “Ah di cutest ting in a di building yeh” throughout his current songs.

His mentor is his mother. He said her persistence at making ends meet in trying times and her ability to stand firm despite the circumstances is testimony to this fact. Giving him strength to continue this long journey in music and believing in himself at all times.

 

Kenly ‘K-BIGGS’ Franklin

Kenly ‘K-BIGGS’ Franklin is originally from St Thomas, USVI; he was a former member of the popular Virgin Islands band known as Jam Band in which he was a Saxophonist. Kenly has also played many popular artists throughout his career. His musical abilities have also afforded him the opportunity to play with renowned reggae artists Kymani Marley and Leon Cordero. Kenly has aslo performed and backed artists such as David Rudder and Marcia Griffith and Iwer George. Also legends like Sparrow, Shadow, Crazy and Baron.

Music has taken Kenly to all parts of the globe including, Africa, Europe, North and Central America, and not to mention throughout the Caribbean. Now based in South Florida, he also plays with numerous local bands, and has produced songs such as ‘Anything for You’,performed by Noel Browne and CMF female vocalist, Tiffany Thomas. Kenly has written and produced several songs for the group and currently does work from his “Love For music Studios” in Miami.

“ONE LOVE”
KBIGGS

 

Fanatik

In 2007, a unique musical band, Fanatik, was formed under the direction of Cornell “Fingaz” Phillip. Unique, in that the band is, to all intents and purposes, a concert band, presenting a varied musical repertoire including Caribbean popular forms as well as R&B, Jazz, Rock, Country and Pop.

Simply put, Fanatik can and has put together an astounding repertoire that suits any event, from any nationality, any genre of music. From its inaugural performance on 19th December 2007 at a Fund Raising Dinner, the band set the pace of being a dynamic band which captivates audiences with their energy, theatrics and professionalism.

Because of its undoubted versatility and the high standard of its presentations the seven member ensemble, two vocalists, four instrumentalists and sound engineer, is regularly called upon to play at private gatherings, government and school functions as well as public shows, dances and carnival costume bands. They have also accompanied local, regional and international acts such as Jeff Joseph, Ophelia, Nelly Stharre, Mr. Benji N2O, Tanya Stevens, Eric Donaldson, Barrington Levy just to name a few. Fanatik is fast becoming the band of choice to serve as accompanist at various local song contests.

Fanatik released its debut self titled album in early 2011 in time for the Dominica carnival season. The album consists of 13 tracks covering a wide spectrum of regional and international genres. “Music Fever” won Groovy Soca Monarch and “Like a Fanatik” earned 1st runner up in the power segment both performed by lead singer Carlyn.

 

Elon ‘Bolo’ Rodney

Elon ‘Bolo’ Rodney is an original and founder member of the group Gramacks, has played  drums on the very first recording and all hits like’ mi  debar’ etc.has also toured Europe,Africa,North America and the caribbean with Gramacks.now based in Miami has played with many local bands in the south Fla. area…love  Bolo.

 

Wilfredo “Fredo” Michaels

One of the founding and dynamic  members of the famous and Caribbean renowned band“17 Plus” Band of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands,  Mr. Michaels is a versatile composer and musician who plays many instruments and produces music for other island artists and bands.

He is a product of the high school music program in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands and has written many hit songs. He also lends his unique voice to the special sound of his current band Hartatak International formerly of St. Maarten but now based in  Croix, USVirgin Islands.

He was also a former member of Imaginations Brass. To his credit he adds a track “Mary, Mary” from the Sound Track of The Mighty Quinn featuring Denzel Washington.

 

Onyan – Burning Flames

Antigua and Barbuda delivers one of the sweetest purest tenor voices of all time. Toriano Edwards cannot be duplicated! That trembling of the vocals he does is unique to Onyan alone and the clarity, diction, and delivery of this singer has brought crown after Calypso Monarch crown to grace his brow.

Back in the early eighties, this Potters son, picked up a rhythm guitar. In those days, a young Toriano coupled with brothers and some close friends played rallies and moonlight dances, becoming officially the Burning Flames in 1976. Between 1978 and 1982 the young band struggled in their search for fame and fortune, and finally each brother seeking a haven in other islands. Onyan went to Guadeloupe, whilst Foxx and David “Krokus” Edwards who is an amazing bass guitarist, stayed home. Arrow from Montserrat played a significant part in bringing Burning Flames to the world and regional stage.

From the earliest hits Stylie-Tight, Go-Go and Do Anything around mid eighties Burning Flames international success skyrocketed! 1989 – 93 saw Road March hits in succession, pausing for breath in ’94 and picking up the beat from 1995- 99. Piece Ah Iron 1991, Crazy Man, and Fire Under Me foot 1996 penned by Onyan still make the fans feel the heat to this day along with the melodious Island Girl, a song produced by Island Records, and featured in the funny movie, “Weekend at Bernie II”. This year once again winning road march hit ‘Back door’ 2012.

 

Stephane Ravor

Native of the Martinique, Stéphane RAVOR began his musical career as a founding member of the group “Clin D’Oeuil”, they recorded the track entitled “rété cool” which featured Stephane as the lead vocal; “rété cool “quickly became a success. Stephane’s vocal ability was then becoming compared to that of the famous and celebrated Martinique artist Paulo ALBIN.

This instantly caused some debate and ruffled a few feathers in the French Caribbean music scene. However all of that was quickly put to rest when Stephane released his first solo album entitled “Avec beaucoup de the pêche” from which came the huge hit single “lanmou pé ké fini”…forever cementing his rightful place in French Zouk music archives…

 

Luc Leandry

Luc Léandry became known in the late 1980s with his debut album, Fanm bo Kannal, when zouk was booming in the Francophone world. He quickly became one of the leading recording artists of Debs Music productions and was surrounded by artists like Francky Vincent, Eric Brouta, Henri Debs, and Georges Decimus and Jacob Desvarieux. In 1994, he won the Maracas Gold Award with his single “Dans Tes Yeux” ( In Your Eyes ) which topped almost all of the hit parade charts, and went on to be a huge hit on radios and in nightclubs. Based in Paris for a number of years, he is now the owner of his own recording studio and founded his own production company, LikidLikid Productions. He continues his own recording work in zouk and produces several albums each year. Luc is known as the King of Zouk !

 

Tanya St. Val

Throughout her career spanning 25 years, Tanya St Val has joyfully experimented with a wide variety of musical styles. Zouk, of course, has earned her fame, from her African tours with Expérience 7 and Zouk Machine (in the late 80s) to the legendary stages of the Zénith (June 2000) and l’Olympia (December 2002).

But the girl from Basse-Terre has also sung, in her inimitable style, beside the most famous of French rockers, Johnny Halliday (1994); rap artists: Passi, Doc Gynéco, Neg Marrons; the new wave of Guadeloupean music: Akiyo and Dominique Coco; and Compas: Magnum Band and Alan Cavé. Not to mention, Biguine with Malavoi and her two passions, Gospel and Blues, duos with Francis Cabrel, Michael Jones, Paul Person and Patrick Verbaeck on the concept “Autour du Blues.”

With nearly a dozen albums recorded, not including her numerous collaborations with other artists and concerts around the world, Tanya is considered as a Diva in the pantheon of Caribbean music.

 

Zouk Machine

Zouk Machine is one of the most successful female trios in the West Indies. Formed in 1986 by Guy Houllier and Yves Honoré of Experiment 7, the group attracted international attention with their groundbreaking album, Maldòn, in 1990.

Zouk Machine has undergone several personnel changes since its inception. While the original trio featured sisters Christiane Obydol andDominique Zorobabel and Joëlle Ursull, the departure of Ursull after six months was followed by a lengthy period as a vocal duo.

Although the 1998 addition of Jane Fostin cemented the group’s sound, her decision to embark on a solo career seven years later left the future of Zouk Machine in doubt. Christian Obydol took up the mantle and forged on with the Zouk Machine concept that she created and now tours worldwide as Zouk Machine.

 

Ophelia

Ophelia is indeed one of the most successful female singers to emerge from Dominica and the Eastern Caribbean. With 16 albums and 11 awards to her credit, Ophelia is a household name in Dominica and the French Departments of Martinique and Guadeloupe. She began her working life as a teacher and upon graduation from UWI Barbados after pursuing studies in arts, held a number of positions in Dominica including Chief Cultural Officer, Tourism Product Development Officer and Deputy Head of Tourism among others.

Ophelia first came to national attention as a singer when she won the Dominica Patois Song competition in 1970. She went on to win this contest the following year and then again in 1975. The big breakthrough for Ophelia in the region and particularly in the French Antilles came in 1979 with the release of her hit ‘Aie Dominique’ and followed up by ‘Chanson d’ Amour’ in 1981. The success of these songs in the French Antilles and her subsequent tours earned her the prestigious Maracas d’Or award in France in 1981, the only non-French artiste ever to win this award. She was dubbed ‘La Grande Dame de Chanson Antillaise’ ‘La Myriam Makeba de la Caraibe’, ‘Ambassadrice de Couer de la Dominique’ in France and the French Caribbean.

Ophelia has toured many Caribbean countries, USA, Canada and Europe and performed at many important festivals and events such the World Creole Music Festival in Dominica, the Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta), Feminine Music Festivals and MIDEM in France. In Paris she was the first black artiste to perform at the prestigious Theatre de la Renaissance. A recording of this memorable performance was released as a live album. Ophelia has appeared on the covers of over 15 magazines. A veritable cultural icon, she was named Caribbean Cultural Icon by the Permanent Committee of CARICOM for CARIFESTA 2006. In Dominica, she was awarded the Sisserou Award, the nation’s second highest honour for her contribution to music and culture. She also received Dominica’s highest cultural award, the Golden Drum award.

Ophelia has released 16 albums, one video album, two DVD concert albums and music videos. Much of these were produced by her husband, music producer, song writer and consultant-economist, McCarthy Marie, at the Mark Off productions studios in Dominica. Certified in music theory, Ophelia writes and composes many of her songs, sometimes in collaboration with other songwriters. She sings mainly in Kwéyòl (French Creole) and in the cadence-lypso and zouk genres. Very much on top of the latest developments in the music industry, Ophelia released an album on flash drive and sells her music on-line. The French and French Antillean market is her prime target and she often works with French and French Antillean musicians, dance groups, video and television producers in the production of her music videos, DVDs and concerts. In light of this, Ophelia opted to become a member of the French copyright society SACEM and the neighbouring rights collective management organisation ADAMI.

Ophelia has had great impact on the music industry in the French Antilles and influenced some key developments there. Working full time in the music industry particularly during the eighties and nineties, she was one of the first female professional solo artistes to operate in a male dominated industry. Her hit song ‘Chanson d’Amour’ written by Gordon Henderson paved the way for the development of the zouk love genre and the entry of women into the music scene as front singers. Hitherto, they functioned mainly as backing singers. Her success has inspired many women. Ophelia’s numerous tours and performances contributed tremendously to shift Creole music towards concerts and away from the dance session format which was the main form of live music presentation in the Francophone Caribbean. The SACEM Lifetime Award bestowed on Ophelia in Martinique is testimony to her personal success and the impact of her music and example in the French Antilles.

Nowadays when not performing, Ophelia operates her own hotel Chez Ophelia and does some volunteer work with community groups and choirs, coaching and mentoring. Utilizing the synergies of her popularity in the French Caribbean, Chez Ophelia hosts many groups and associations from the French territories and offers a visitor experience blending ecology and culture. As such, the establishment of the Chez Ophelia is an extension of her music activities similar to the new merchandising craze of pop artists to generate new revenue streams from their popularity. In this respect she has been a leader. She also understands that copyright and related rights are the foundations on which the music industry rests, and she fiercely defends her rights both as a performer and as a songwriter.

 

Michele Henderson

Whether it’s in English, French or Creole; Zouk, R&B, Jazz, Reggae or Retro Soul, the accolades are consistent. Michele Henderson is fast becoming one of the Caribbean’s premier female vocal talents. No stranger to the entertainment scene in her native land of Dominica, Michele’s status as an all rounder – writer, flautist and vocalist, is growing by leaps and bounds throughout the Caribbean and further a field with every performance. She has been featured in Caribbean magazines such as “She”, “Home Companion”, “Maco”, “Caribbean Beat” & “The Beat”, on regional television programs such as Caribscope & E-zone and in the international media including BET Jazz.

In October 2000, Michele released her self-entitled debut album “Michele Henderson”. In October of 2001, this young and ambitious talent took an unprecedented step to perform a Creole Special in the Arawak House of Culture in Dominica, and the CD “Michele Henderson, Creole Special Live at the Arawak House of Culture”, is the result. Michele was included on the 2002 & 2003 line-up for the 6th and 7th annual World Creole Music Festivals. 2003 brought a great sense of achievement to Michele and her band when her third album, “Sound check”, was awarded “Album of the Year – 2002” by the Foundation for Artists Musicians and Entertainers (FAME), a foundation established in Dominica. Michele was further honored when “Sing for Africa”, a magnificently crafted track from the Sound check album, was awarded “Song of the year-2002”. She was again, honored, by being invited for a second consecutive appearance at the St. Lucia Jazz Festival in 2003 after an unforgettable performance there the preceding year.

Michele released “Mwen Aime’w” in 2004 in which she paid tribute to Kadance greats Gordon Henderson and Ophelia Marie with a medley dubbed “Hommage”. The video for the title track received considerable airplay keeping Michele’s talent visible at every turn on French creole television. Video

The island of St. Vincent got a taste of Michele’s talent when she performed at their acclaimed Blues Festival in January of 2005. Her performance was so well received that she was invited back in April for a sold out concert at the Iguana Club. She went on to perform at St. Lucia Jazz alongside Rob “Zi” Taylor, saxophonist extraordinaire. Michele spent the summer in Europe where she performed at the prestigious Roskilde Festival in Denmark, was featured on the cover of German travel magazine, the Karibik Journal followed by performances in Paris. After a smashing performance at the 9th Annual World Creole Music Festival in 2005, Michele began working on her next project; a DVD of that very WCMF performance. (Included in mail package)

In recognition for her work, the government of Dominica appointed Michele official Goodwill Ambassador to the island in 2004. She is recognized as a diplomat and in fact travels with a diplomatic passport. In 2008, Michele released her 5th album to date, Sa Kai. A tribute to creole music, Sa Kai received great reviews and produced two smash hits; Pani Pawol and Pou Tout ma Vie. Michele toured extensively, having performed in Curacao, Columbia and Martinique among other countries in 2009. She also spent much time during 2009 and 2010 being the proud mama of a gorgeous little girl whom she gave birth to in 2008 along with an older daughter both of whom she adores. Along with her husband of 12 yrs, Roland Delsol Jr, Michele has created a happy home for her kids on the lovely island of Dominica.

Michele continues to perform around the Caribbean particularly in the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique. She’s frequently featured on radio and television programs and has received many awards over the years in recognition of her efforts in music. Here is a list of some of her performances over the years as well as her accolades…

MAJOR PERFORMANCES
1995 – DOMFESTA SONG CONTEST WINNER (DOMINICA)
1997 – DOMINICAN REPRESENTATIVE AT WORLD SCHOLAR ATHLETE GAMES (RHODE ISLAND – USA)/
DOMINICAN REPRESENTATIVE AT CARIBBEAN BROADCASTING UNION SONG FESTIVAL (BARBADOS)
2000 – CARIFESTA (ST. KITTS)
2001 – DOMINICAN REPRESENTATIVE AT FRANCOPHONE GAMES (OTTAWA –CANADA)/
GRENADA SPICE JAZZ FESTIVAL
2002 – BARBADOS CONGALINE FESTIVAL/
ST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL (JAZZ IN THE SQUARE & JAZZ IN THE SOUTH)/
FETE DE BANANE (LORAIN – MARTINIQUE)/
FETE DE CAPESTERRE ( GUADELOUPE)/
CHANT DE SIREN (GUADELOUPE & MARTINIQUE)/
WORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
2003 – ST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL (HEADLINER – JAZZ IN THE SOUTH)/
FESTIVAL DE TRINITE (MARTINIQUE)/
FESTIVAL DE ST. ESPRIT (MARTINIQUE)/
FESTIVAL DE AJOUPA BAYU (MARTINIQUE)/
WORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
2004 – NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL (USA)/
MV FREEWINDS(PRIVATE CRUISE LINER – BARBADOS, ST.VINCENT ANTIGUA, ST.KITTS) /
CARNAVAL – ST. FRANCOIS (MARTINIQUE)/
UCLA JAZZ AND REGGAE FESTIVAL (LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA)/
ANTIGUA MUSIC FESTIVAL/
ANTILLIAANSE FEESTEN HOOGSTRATEN (BELGIUM)/
LEUVEN ROCK FESTIVAL (BELGIUM)
2005 – ST. VINCENT BLUES FESTIVAL/
ST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL/
IGUANA CLUB (ST.VINCENT)
MV FREEWINDS (PRIVATE CRUISE LINER – ARUBA, BONAIRE, CURACAO)
ROSKILDE FESTIVAL (DENMARK)
WORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
2006 – MV FREEWINDS(BARBADOS, ST. LUCIA, ST. KITTS, ANTIGUA)/
JAZZ ARTISTS ON THE GREEN (TRINIDAD)/
ST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL/
MV FREEWINDS (ARUBA, BONAIRE, CURACAO)/
IMATRA BIG BAND FESTIVAL (FINLAND)
CAFÉ AMIGO, VIRU HOTEL (ESTONIA)
SAN FERNANDO JAZZ FESTIVAL (TRINIDAD)
CARIFESTA (TRINIDAD)
CREOLE & ALL THAT JAZZ (DOMINICA)
2007- WORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
SAINT HILL MANOR (EAST GREENSTEAD ENGLAND)
SHRINE AUDITORIUM (HOLLYWOOD CA)
2008- ST. LUCIA JAZZ
MV FREEWINDS 20TH ANNIVERSARY (CURACAO)
FREEWINDS’ WAY TO HAPPINESS CAMPAIGN (CARTAGENA COLUMBIA)
2009- SUMMER FESTIVALS (MARTINIQUE)
WORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
2010- ST. LUCIA JAZZ
SAINT HILL MANOR CHARITY BALL (EAST GRINSTEAD ENGLAND)
MV FREEWINDS (ABC ISLANDS CHRISTMAS TOUR)
2011 – l’ATRIUM – (MARTINIQUE)
DE MO PI KAT NOT – (TV PROGRAMME, GUADELOUPE)
MV FREEWINDS 23RD ANNIVERSARY (ABC ISLANDS)
SHRINE AUDITORIUM (HOLLYWOOD CA.)
NARCONON DRUG REHAB ANNIVERSARY CONCERT (MILAN ITALY)
CARIBBEAN QUEEN CONCERT @ K’ZA (MARTINIQUE)
XMAS CONCERTS (BARBADOS/ST. LUCIA)
FETE MARIN (LES SAINTS)
GORDON/MICHELE/OPHELIA CONCERT TOUR (GRAND CARBET- MARTINIQUE/ LAMENTIN GUADELOUPE)
2012 – JAZZ ARTISTS ON THE GREEN (TRINIDAD)
SWING CLUB (GUADELOUPE)

ACCOLADES:
1995 EMERGENS AWARD FOR OUSTANDING YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT IN THE REGION (MARTINIQUE)
1996 FAME AWARD FOR BEST RECORDING FEMALE ARTISTE (DOMINICA)
1998 AUGUISTE ETIENNE AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT (DOMINICA)
2003 FAME AWARD FOR SONG OF THE YEAR 2002 (DOMINICA)
2003 FAME AWARD FOR ALBUM OF THE YEAR 2002 (DOMINICA)
2004 APPOINTED OFFICIAL GOODWILL AMBASSADOR TO DOMINICA
2004 YOUNG ACHIEVERS AWARD – YOUTH AMBASSADOR (DOMINICA)
2004 “SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD” FROM THE CULTURAL DIVISION FOR CONTRIBUTION TO CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT. (DOMINICA)
2005 DBS FLAMBOTANT AWARD FOR FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR.
(DOMINICA)
2006 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FROM THE “GRAND BAY REUNION ORGANISING COMMITTEE” (DOMINICA)
2011 LIFETIME AWARD FOR CONTRIBUTION TO CULTURE FROM DIGICEL AND THE GRAND BAY ISIDORE ORGANISING COMMITTEE

MEDIA FEATURES:
Magazines:
“She” magazine, “The Beat”, “Caribbean beat”, “Maco”, “Home companion”, covers: “Karibik journal”, “France Antilles” ETC…

TV:
Caribscope, E-zone, Bet Jazz, Zdf tv-GERMANY, Trace tv ETC…

Michele’s love for music has fueled her passion for trying different genres. She does equally well with jazz, R&B, reggae and the various Caribbean genres with which she composes her music. Michele has been innovative by combining the different genres on some of her songs, creating a unique blend that appeals to wider audiences. She has the gifts of poetry and story- telling, as well a vocal ability that has to be experienced to be believed. Spectators are often blown away by the voice coming out of her slight frame. This beautiful, talented, young woman has much to offer the world and will soon make her mark. Look out for this Caribbean Superstar!

NAME: MICHELE HENDERSON
DATE OF BIRTH: 31ST MAY 1979
ADDRESS: 1545 MABOUCHE GRAND BAY
COMMONWEALTH OF DOMINICA
TELEPHONE: 767 446 3614, 767 616 0077
EMAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE www.michelemuzic.com

 

Krosfyah

Soca has never been so cool! Combat boots, baggy attire, brightly colored bandanas adorning funky dreads and coloured ‘fros; krosfyah epitomizes coolness.  Combined with infectious melodies, high-energy performances and pulsating rhythms that speak a language only one’s hips comprehend, krosfyah has reinvented soca as we know it.

For the past fifteen years, krosfyah has been touring the world inducing fans across three continents into a soca frenzy!  Yet despite the group’s sophomore CD’s (Ultimate Party – Pump Me Up) sales (totaling over 300,000 units to date without the assistance of a major label), the guys remain humble.  As Edwin Yearwood, principal songwriter for krosfyah indicates, “We are just a bunch of island guys who love to play music.”  And play music is exactly what they do. Whether entertaining 20 or 20,000, krosfyah always delivers an energized performance!

The evolution of krosfyah from playing covers for tourists on Barbados hotel circuit to touring the world and performing their original music for dignitaries like Nelson Mandela occurred over a span of seven years. While few critics ever doubted the potential of krosfyah most never imagined this level of success in such a short space of time.

In 1994krosfyah released their debut album, Ultimate Party”, which propelled the group from obscurity to the most popular soca band on the island of Barbados and won them the coveted ”Band of the Year” title.

In 1995, the group released Ultimate Party-Pump Me Up”.  Not only did this album produce the hit song, “Pump Me Up”, which became the national anthem for the youth of Barbados but it travelled across the seas to Canada where it achieved the coveted Gold status in January of 1997.  As you read, it continues to receive excellent sales and reviews throughout the Caribbean, South America, the USA and Europe, while still finding its way into new global markets.  The album bestowed unprecedented honors upon its lead vocalist Edwin Yearwood“Party Monarch”, “Road Monarch Champion” and “Calypso King” in 1995.  The triple-crown win by one artiste would mark the first and only time to date, in the history ofBarbados’ Annual Crop Over Festival, that such a feat has ever been accomplished.

In 1996, the success of krosfyah’s third album, Aim High”, led to more awards.  The album also produced the hit song, “Wet Me”, which dominated the music chart in the neighboringisland ofTrinidad and Tobago.

1997 brought forth a six track cd, entitled Fyah Riddims”, 3 tunes from that Album had a good run, those being “Road Block”“Highway Robbery” & “Redemption of Me”. Christmas of that year was a 6 track album entitled Fyahside Christmas”, with favourites such as “My Sweet Lord”, “No Christmas Without You”, “Jah Son”, “End of the Rope” and “Celebration”.

During 1998krosfyah surfaced from the studio with a new album, Hot Zone” and a new co-lead vocalist, Ray Armstrong.  Hot Zone”, like all of its predecessors, produced hit songs such as “Oil Pumping”, “Calor” & “Appetite” which enabled the band to tour across the United States and Europe performing at music showcases and festivals.

1999

As if not to be stopped, krosfyah released yet another album krosfyah.com” in 1999 with hits like “Agony” (which saw Edwin Yearwood crowned 1999 Party Monarch for the third time), “Ragga Beenie”, “Forkin”, “Be-sa-me” and “Sexy Body”, to name a few.

2000

The year 2000 turned out to be no different.  Krosfyah marked their return to their homeland’s cultural festival – Crop Over -with another remarkable feat.  Lead singer with the band, Mr. Edwin Yearwood, won his fourth Party Monarch title with the track ‘Fiah Fiah’ which is featured on his debut solo album Influenced: The Good and Badd In Me”.  This album was released alongside krosfyah’s own The Best of krosfyah vol. 1”. This compilation of hits from the past and including two new tracks, continues to demonstrate krosfyah’s musical ingenuity.

2001

The return to Crop Over for krosfyah has indeed proven to be one of their best decisions ever.  Following the trend of the past years, krosfyah released yet another pulsating, award winning album. “Kool Under Fire”, the name of the album, is a fitting title for this ever-dynamic band.  The success of this album includes the Barbados 2001 Road March tune, ‘Sak Pasé’, which was sung by Edwin and the effervescent Khiomal Nurse, who also joined the band that same year. “Emancipation” (another skilfully penned and appropriately titled masterpiece which reflects on our freedom, and some spanish flavour in “Plenty Amor”. These songs will certainly add to the continuation of the group’s success.

2002

One would agree that in everything there will be good and there will be bad.  However, the success comes when you realize amidst it all you can have the situation “Lock Down”.  krosfyah’s 2002 album is certainly a testimony of will power to rise to the top.  The album features the Barbados Tune of the Crop third place song “Road Jam”, along with fast pace hits, the likes of “Fire Man” and “Ride It” and cool titles “Satisfaction” and “Ling Tong”. Lead guitarist Anthony Bailey, debuted his solo album entitled “Unheard Message” that same year, a 20 track cd that must be heard.

2003

Krosfyah’s versatility continues to be evident even in their album titles.  “Enchanted”, simple but thought-provoking is the title of the 2003 album. The flava is cool, refreshing and totally krosfyah (still down-to-earth and for their fans and supporters).  One song “Family” was specifically written for their faithful supporters, especially those who frequent the message board on krosfyah’s website. Other songs include “French Kiss” featuring a French flavoured melody and a ragga-soca number called “Sorry”.

2004

“Zero Tolerance”, that’s the 2004 album title, which clearly speaks out against, music piracy, drugs and violence. This was definitely the stance which the band and Mr Edwin Yearwood took all the way to the Party Monarch Finals, of which Edwin won for the 5th time, with a song entitled “Invasion”, one of the many popular tunes off the album. With other hits such as “Strong Back and “Pressure by Khiomal, Keep Rolling It and the sweet melody of “Sugarcane”, which placed 2nd in the People’s Monarch Final. This album is yet another classic example of pure musicianship.

For their 15th Anniversary, December 31st, 2004, the band brought out yet another classic masterpiece, The Best of Krosfyah Vol. 2”, and to add the icing to the cake, Lead Vocalist and Songwriter of the band, Mr Edwin Yearwood, recently signed a 6 Album deal with VP Records – Waistline Music Division, being the first Soca act to be signed to this label. With the increased presence of Soca in the International marketplace and the genre to be entered into the Grammy Awards, the best is yet to come from this music maestro and his band.

2005

2005 brought forth yet another Musical Masterpiece entitled “Timeless”. As the hands of time roll by, the music just gets better with age, with a solid mix of guest artistes such as Bunji Garlin on the All aboard Remix, Friendz featuring Lil Rick and the 1980’s Remake of Rock in Ethiopia featuring Adonijah, this album is sure to fill your musical pallate for many years to come, signature tunes “Head Gone”, “Yardie Graduate” and “Sweetest Thing” nominated for Best Ragga Soca of the Year 2005 and one of the most requested for the season, and WON, are just a few of the “Timeless” memoirs on this album.

2006

There’s nothing like “Sweet Sixteen”, and that’s where krosfyah’s at for 2006, as they celebrate their 16th Anniversary in grand style, with a 14 track album entitled “Ever Blazing”, and winning “Band of the Year” at the Barbados Music Awards with Mega Hits – “Welcome to the Band”, “We Ready to Go”, the ladies tune – “Agua”, “No Wall Flowers”, “Hot Spot”, “Sinking Sand”, “She’s Got to have It” and “Nothing Sweeter”, which are just a sample of the fyah that will melt your ears, as they once again ignite your soul with a EverBlazing Fyah. You’ve just got to have this Album, because there’s nothing Sweeter.

2007

A year sure does go by fast, blazing on the heels of a very successful 2006 Album, Barbados’ #1 Band is all Fire Proofed” for 2007, winning “Band of the Year” Edwin – “Male Entertainer of the Year”. Soca Soul tunes, such as “It Feels like”, “All my Life”, “It’s taking Over”, “Got this Feeling”, “Higher” and “Jah is your Light” are just a few to be added to the Halls of Soca. Fiery hits tell the tales of “Bashment Bacchanal”, saying Gimme some More, cause I’ve Got this Feeling” and that’s “Where I Wanna Be”It’s Soca or Die for this band celebrating 18 years December 31, 2007.

2008

“The Journey” continues as this Extraodinary band nips closer to its 20th Anniversary. Similarly to 1995 when 3 crowns were won, 2008 proved to be no different, with Khiomal winning Party Monarch with Unleash the Beast and that he did, whilst Edwin captured The Road March Tune with “Handle ya Bizniz” & The People’s Monarch with “Nah Missin Me”, which has a signature krosfyah sound of a Pump me Up and was a huge favourite at home and abroad. The Band won “Band of the Year” & Khiomal – “Male Entertainer of the Year”. Speak about a well rounded Album, you will listen to each tune from beginning to end and ask where’s the rest? You may be caught “In a Jam” with a Good Gal”, “Like So” and “We Chippin” “Till Morning” with “My Best Friend”, so “Start de Madness” and “Handle ya Bizniz”, cause “That’s My Carnival” and it “Nah Missin Me”. Cheenatonah everyone!

2009

“Kings of the Groove” certainly is a fitting title, with another host of Tunes that will go down in history. Edwin took the Road March & People’s Monarch titles once again with the uptempo hit tune “In de Middle ah de Road”, and the Band won “Band of the Year”, “Band of the Decade”, whilst Edwin took “Male Entertainer of the Year” & “Best Uptempo Soca Single – Male” at the 5th Annual Barbados Music Awards 2010. The “Carnival on my Mind”, “Whole night Long”, “Trouble”, “She’s Going down”, among others, allows you to understand why they are called “Kings of the Groove”.

2010

“The Experience” says it all, after 20 years in the business, which can be considered a significant milestone for a Band, who has emulated and continues to represent the genre that is “Soca”. krosfyah have been through many experiences, which is reflected in their 13 track offering featuring mega tunes such as “We Ain’t had enough, No Cheating, Neighbour, Sugah, Wine on You, Come up to me, and Chrissening” just to mention a few.

“20th Anniversary Special Edition” – Best of krosfyah Vol. 3” – Edwin Yearwood & krosfyah offers you a 3 Box CD set with over 50 of their greatest hits, to celebrate this auspicious occasion. A hint of “Calor, All aboard, Yardie, Dushi, Something Greater,  Doing dis Again, Oba, Ultimate Party, Voice in my head, Sorry, Sweetest Thing, ForkingFrench KissCell Block 3, Strong Back, Jocking ya waist, the lifelong anthem Pump Me Up amongst numerous others. A definite must have. A Special Edition – Collector’s item.

2011

“One on One” – “Back Again” to have a “Good Time” because “Dis Vibe” will “Never” die. These and many more such as the 2011 Road March “Cova de Road” can be found on yet another great Volume of hits from the krosfyah crew.

 While it is true, that krosfyah are “just a bunch of islanders who love to play music”, krosfyah’s players (Edwin Yearwood, Anthony Bailey, Khiomal Nurse, Corey Jordan, Antonio Rudder, Neil Burnett, and Mario Burnett) each add, a unique ingredient to their Magical Music.

                     The team players of krosfyah are as follows:

  • Edwin Yearwood           Lead Vocalist/ Songwriter
  • Anthony Bailey              Guitarist/ Vocalist/ Songwriter
  • Khiomal Nurse               Vocalist/ Songwriter
  • Felix Forde                     Bassist
  • Neil Burnett                    Drummer
  • Antonio Rudder             Keyboardist
  • Corey Jordan                 Keyboardist
  • Ronald Taylor                Sound Engineer
  • Aynsley Greaves          Monitor Engineer
  • Paul Reynolds               Tour Sales Executive
  • Michael Agard               Managing Director
  • Ingrid Holder                 P.R Manager/ Corporate Secretary

 

Krosfyah Achievements and Awards

1993     The Nation Entertainment Awards          Most Improved Act

1994     The Nation Entertainment Awards          Band of the Year

1994     Arts SupportAlliance                      Band of the Year 1994

1995     The Nation Entertainment Awards          Band of the Year

1995     Barbados RoadMarch                                       Third Place “Crank It”

1995     National Cultural Foundation            Best Community Band 1995

1996     Caribbean Music Awards                 Album of the Year ’95 – “Pump Me Up”

1996     Boston Caribbean Music Awards           Best International Group Award

People’s Choice Award   (Edging out Shaggy, Buju Banton and SuperBlue)

1996     Edwin received the keys to the City ofBostonfrom the Mayor’s Office

1996     Barbados Malibu Congaline Festival      RoadMarch “Yardie”

1996     Barbados Crop Over Festival                      Band of the Year

1996     K103 Radio,Montreal,Canada              Champion “Battle of the Bands”

‘Street Sounds” R&B program               (Pump Me Up, the first Soca song to have ever

entered the competition, beating Prince’s new                                                                       release 30 – 4.)

1996     Reggae Soca Awards – Miami               Best Soca Group 1996

1997        The Ultimate Party CD turns GOLD. (January)

1997     Music Manufacturing Services        Certified Gold Record -Canada

1997     Trinidad Music Awards                                      Best Song” All Aboard” written by Edwin

Yearwood for the band Atlantik.

1997     Boston Caribbean Music Awards           Best International Group 1997

1997     Caribbean Music Awards                 Best Group 1997

Best recording of the year “Ultimate Party – Pump Me Up”.

1997     Sunshine Music Awards – N.Y.              Best Recording By a Group

1999     World Beat Music Awards                                 For Their Contribution to Soca Music

2001     Barbados Crop Over Festival                Road March “Sak Pasé”

2002     Barbados Crop Over Festival                3rd Place Road March Song “Road Jam”

2003    TrinidadCarnival                            Hottest Overall Soca Brass Band

2006     Barbados Music Awards                    Band of the Year – January

2006     13th Reggae Soca Music Awards       Best Soca Group & Album of the Year – May

2006     Barbados Music Awards                 Band of the Year

2007     Barbados Music Awards                    Band of the Year

2008     Barbados Music Awards                    Band of the Year & Best Soca Single

2008     Rd March, Party & People’s Monarch Handle ya Bizniz, Unleash & Nah Missin Me

2009     Barbados Music Awards                                         Band of the Year

2009     Rd March & People’s Monarch          In de Middle ah de Road

2010     Barbados Music Awards                    Band of the Year

2010     Carib Fest Awards                              Lifetime Achievement Award

 

Some krosfyah Notable Performances

1995    St.Kitts Music Festival

1996     Cartegena Music Festival – Columbia(Hailed as one of the best bands of entire festival)

1996     Cohobblopot -Barbados

1996     Stadtgarten at POPKOM Music Festival -Germany

1996     Museumsuferfest -Frankfurt,Germany

1996    MiamiCarnival

1996        AirJamaicaU.S.Promotional Tour

1997       TrinidadCarnival

1997    SurinameTour

1997    RadioCityMusic Hall

1997    BahamasMusik Festival

1997     BTAUKTour

1997     Curacao / Aruba /SurinameTour

1997     Reggae Riddums Festival -New Orleans

1997     Central Park Summerstage -New York

1997        The Onyx – MIDEM Latin America & Caribbean Music Market –Miami

1997    Montserrat  – free Christmas Concert

1998       TrinidadCarnival

1999        Sinbad Music Festival – Aruba

1998    BermudaTour

1998        Germany & Amsterdam Tour

1998        Bonaire Tour

1998     Caricom Heads of State Concert –  St. Lucia

1999         Trinidad Carnival

1999     Colleges across the USA

1999        New  Orleans Jazz Festival

1999     Montreal Jazz Festival

1999    WashingtonCarnival

1999    African Festival,Washington,DC

1999        Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, VA

1999     Afrobean,San Francisco,CA

1999         Afrikadey Festival (Dundey), Calgary

1999         World Beat Music Festival, Trinidad

1999         Pirates Week Festival

1999      Spirit of Unity Tour

1999      WOMEX Trade Fair, Berlin, Germany

  1. Trinidad Carnival

2000        Trinidad Hilton

2000     University of Central Florida

2000     Clayton State College

2000     International Sunfest

2000        Boat Ride, New York

2000     Crop Over 2000, Barbados

2000     Carifesta

2000        Fascination Cruise Ship

2001        Trinidad Carnival

2001        St. Vincent  Pre-Election Celebration

2001        Jamaica Bacchanal Village

2001        Congaline Festival, Barbados

2001        Island In the Park with Air Jamaica

2001        Belgium & Netherlands

2001        Crop Over 2001, Barbados

2001        Miami Carnival

2001        World Creole Music Festival, Dominica

2001        Montreal, Quebec

2001        St. Philip’sCarnival,Barbados

2002        Trinidad Carnival

2002        Jamaica Carnival

2002        Spectakula Barbados

2002        Crop Over 2002, Barbados

2003        Trinidad Carnival

2003        Cayman Is Quincentennial Celebrations

2003        Crop Over 2003

2003        Brooklyn Museum

2003        St. Lucia Wet Fete

2003     St. Croix

2003     Tortola

2003      St. Thomas

2004      Bonaire

2004      Trinidad Carnival

2004      Labour Day

2004        Tortola/ Bonaire/ St. Croix/St. Thomas

2004     Guadelope/ St. Vincent/ Antigua/ Dominica

2005        England/ Holland/ UK

2005      Barbados – Crop Over Festival

2006      Unite the Nations – Toronto

2006      Barbados – Crop Over Festival

2006      N.Y –  Labour Day Weekend

2006      Hartford – Sept. 8

2006      Guyana – Oct. 28

2006      Suriname – Nov. 4

2007      Bonaire/ Curacao Carnival- Jan

2007      Calgary – March 3

2007      London/Holland June 16/17

2008      Crop Over Festival – Barbados

2009       St. Martin Carniva

2009       Crop Over Festival – Barbados

2009       Virginia Festival

2010       Virgin Gorda Easter Festival

2010       St. Maarten Carnival

2010       St. Thomas Carnival

2010       Dominica Marigot Festival

2010       Suriname

2010       Crop Over Festival – Barbados

2010       Nottinghill Carnival

2010       Dominica Creole Festival

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Crossfire Ventures Ltd.

Opposite 3rd Avenue

Long Gap, Spooners Hill

ST. MICHAEL BB12004

BARBADOS, W. I

Tel-No:       (246) 438 -1618

Fax-No:      (246) 438 -1607

Email:     [email protected]

Website: www.krosfyah.net

 

For Management & Bookings:

Office: Ms Ingrid Holder – P R Manager

(246) 438 -1618 or (246) 245 -8686 – cell

Michael Agard – Managing Director

(246) 243-2305 – cell

Email: [email protected]

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1 Comment

  1. Anonymous
    October 17, 2012

    Nice look into the various artist life’s and career…

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