Calypsonian Phael “De Healer” Lander has been adjudged winner of the 2017 Nation Building song award.
The De Healer’s rendition “I do believe” for the 2017 Calypso season was chosen from a shortlist of three calypsos.
The other calypsos which were shortlisted by the judges are “Dominica Love” by Stefan Subero and “Country before party” by Chester “Daddy Chess” Letang.
The judges who were all chosen from the public had high praise for the melody of Stefan and also felt that Daddy Chess was a strong contender; though limited on political focus.
However, it was felt that De Healer’s composition was not only strong on nation appeal but had greater depth than the others. De Healer made his appearance in the Dominica Calypso Association competition for the first time this year.
His composition was written by Nicole Laville.
The criteria for the competition are lyrics- 30 points, melody- 30 points, and nation building appeal- 40 points.
The Nation Building calypso award which is coordinated by Duncan Stowe, is also supported by a group of persons who reside outside of Dominica.
This year’s award comprises a trophy and US$2,500.
Congrats sweetie! Well deserved!
Justice!!! The world knows that you were cheated of the opportunity to compete in the calypso finals. Congrats Phael!!!
Duncan is making the money, boy. He probably has a few millions in assets by now, thanks to the sale of our passports. It is regrettable that the wonders that the CBI is creating for some individuals are not happening for the country of Dominica.
Congrats Phael! Continue striving!
Why does every freakin thing has to be political???? Give the young man a god damned break! Congrats Phael.. keep being you. God bless you. Cudos!
Congratulations Phael and songwriter Nicole. Well deserved.
Way to go Phael. So proud of you. Congrats. Keep singing
Congratulations to Phael and Nicole. Congratulations also to those who were shortlisted.
Congratulations young man. I admire you. Young and focused. Keep going the sky is the limit. Do not worry about those who want to distract or derail you. May be the calypso thing was a stepping stone. See it as a trial piece. That may not be your calling. Venture out my dear friend. Young but impactful. Remember God is in control of every detail of our lives. So get ready . The best is yet to come.
If this is such a strong song, why then did he not even make it to the finals?
Another way to spend the CBI money he making to try and fool us into thinking he care
U TOO SIKO
It’s a string song when it comes to Nation building, bearing in mind that the criteria for this is different than what was used for the Calypso Finals.
Lots of other factors go into determining who makes it to the final. Being a first timer, it could be that his performance/stage presence was not the strongest. I am sure he will come better next year from just having had that experience.