{"id":74792,"date":"2012-09-29T17:52:09","date_gmt":"2012-09-29T21:52:09","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/dominicanewsonline.com\/news\/?p=74792"},"modified":"2012-11-18T17:27:57","modified_gmt":"2012-11-18T21:27:57","slug":"2012-wcmf-artistes-bios","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dominicanewsonline.com\/news\/wcmf\/2012-wcmf-artistes-bios\/","title":{"rendered":"2012 WCMF Artistes Bios"},"content":{"rendered":"

Colton T<\/strong><\/p>\n

Colton \u201cColtonT\u201d 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.<\/p>\n

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\u2019s most prestigious events \u201cCreole In The Park\u201d 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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.\u00a0He 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.<\/p>\n

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 \u201c For The Love Of Music.<\/p>\n

While ColtonT has his unique style, artists such as\u00a0 Jahcure, I\u2019wayne, Damian Marley, Gregory Isaac, Sean Paul, Enrique Iglesias, Celine Dion has provided some level of inspiration to him in his musical career.<\/p>\n

He first made a mix tape in 2010 named \u201cascendance\u201d, with one of his most sentimental tunes being \u201cWhy should I\u201d. Colton released several other much talked about tracks like \u201cCan\u2019t Be Friends\u201d, \u201cEverything & More\u201d and I\u2019ll Be There.\u00a0He 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.<\/p>\n

ColtonT was once dubbed the \u201cghetto yute representor\u201d 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 \u201cAh di cutest ting in a di building yeh\u201d throughout his current songs.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Kenly \u2018K-BIGGS\u2019 Franklin<\/strong><\/p>\n

Kenly \u2018K-BIGGS\u2019 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.<\/p>\n

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 \u2018Anything for You\u2019,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.<\/p>\n

“ONE LOVE”
\nKBIGGS<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Fanatik<\/strong><\/p>\n

In 2007, a unique musical band, Fanatik, was formed under the direction of\u00a0Cornell \u201cFingaz\u201d Phillip. Unique, in that the band is, to all intents and purposes, a concert band, presenting a varied musical repertoire including Caribbean popular\u00a0forms as well as R&B, Jazz, Rock, Country and Pop.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Because of its undoubted versatility and the high standard of its presentations\u00a0the seven member ensemble, two vocalists, four instrumentalists and sound engineer,\u00a0is 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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elon ‘Bolo’ Rodney<\/strong><\/p>\n

Elon ‘Bolo’ Rodney is an original and founder member of the group Gramacks, has played \u00a0drums on the very first recording and all hits like’ mi \u00a0debar’ 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 \u00a0Bolo.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wilfredo \u201cFredo\u201d Michaels<\/strong><\/p>\n

One of the founding and dynamic \u00a0members of the famous and Caribbean renowned band\u201c17 Plus\u201d Band of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands,\u00a0 Mr. Michaels is a versatile composer and musician who plays many instruments and produces music for other island artists and bands.<\/p>\n

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\u00a0 Croix, USVirgin Islands.<\/p>\n

He was also a former member of Imaginations Brass. To his credit he adds a track \u201cMary, Mary\u201d from the Sound Track of The Mighty Quinn featuring Denzel Washington.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Onyan – Burning Flames<\/strong><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

From the earliest hits Stylie-Tight, Go-Go and Do Anything around mid eighties Burning Flames international success skyrocketed! 1989 \u2013 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 \u2018Back door\u2019 2012.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Stephane Ravor<\/strong><\/p>\n

Native of the Martinique, St\u00e9phane RAVOR began his musical career as a founding member of the group \u201cClin D\u2019Oeuil\u201d, they recorded the track entitled “r\u00e9t\u00e9 cool” which featured Stephane as the lead vocal; \u201cr\u00e9t\u00e9 cool \u201cquickly became a success. Stephane\u2019s vocal ability was then becoming compared to that of the famous and celebrated Martinique artist Paulo ALBIN.<\/p>\n

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 \u201cAvec beaucoup de the p\u00eache\u201d from which came the huge hit single “lanmou p\u00e9 k\u00e9 fini\u201d…forever cementing his rightful place in French Zouk music archives\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luc Leandry<\/strong><\/p>\n

Luc L\u00e9andry 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 \u201cDans Tes Yeux\u201d ( 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 !<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tanya St. Val<\/strong><\/p>\n

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 Exp\u00e9rience 7 and Zouk Machine (in the late 80s) to the legendary stages of the Z\u00e9nith (June 2000) and l\u2019Olympia (December 2002).<\/p>\n

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 Gyn\u00e9co, Neg Marrons; the new wave of Guadeloupean music: Akiyo and Dominique Coco; and Compas: Magnum Band and Alan Cav\u00e9. 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 \u201cAutour du Blues.\u201d<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Zouk Machine<\/strong><\/p>\n

Zouk Machine is one of the most successful female trios in the West Indies. Formed in 1986 by Guy Houllier and Yves Honor\u00e9 of Experiment 7, the group attracted international attention with their groundbreaking album, Mald\u00f2n, in 1990.<\/p>\n

Zouk Machine has undergone several personnel changes since its inception. While the original trio featured sisters Christiane Obydol andDominique Zorobabel and Jo\u00eblle Ursull, the departure of Ursull after six months was followed by a lengthy period as a vocal duo.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ophelia<\/strong><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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 \u2018Aie Dominique\u2019 and followed up by \u2018Chanson d\u2019 Amour\u2019 in 1981. The success of these songs in the French Antilles and her subsequent tours earned her the prestigious Maracas d\u2019Or award in France in 1981, the only non-French artiste ever to win this award. She was dubbed \u2018La Grande Dame de Chanson Antillaise\u2019 \u2018La Myriam Makeba de la Caraibe\u2019, \u2018Ambassadrice de Couer de la Dominique\u2019 in France and the French Caribbean.<\/p>\n

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\u2019s second highest honour for her contribution to music and culture. She also received Dominica\u2019s highest cultural award, the Golden Drum award.<\/p>\n

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 Kw\u00e9y\u00f2l (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.<\/p>\n

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 \u2018Chanson d\u2019Amour\u2019 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michele Henderson<\/strong><\/p>\n

Whether it\u2019s 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\u2019s premier female vocal talents. No stranger to the entertainment scene in her native land of Dominica, Michele\u2019s 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 \u201cShe\u201d, \u201cHome Companion\u201d, \u201cMaco\u201d, \u201cCaribbean Beat\u201d & \u201cThe Beat\u201d, on regional television programs such as Caribscope & E-zone and in the international media including BET Jazz.<\/p>\n

In October 2000, Michele released her self-entitled debut album \u201cMichele Henderson\u201d. 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 \u201cMichele Henderson, Creole Special Live at the Arawak House of Culture\u201d, 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, \u201cSound check\u201d, was awarded \u201cAlbum of the Year – 2002\u201d by the Foundation for Artists Musicians and Entertainers (FAME), a foundation established in Dominica. Michele was further honored when \u201cSing for Africa\u201d, a magnificently crafted track from the Sound check album, was awarded \u201cSong of the year-2002\u201d. 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.<\/p>\n

Michele released \u201cMwen Aime\u2019w\u201d in 2004 in which she paid tribute to Kadance greats Gordon Henderson and Ophelia Marie with a medley dubbed \u201cHommage\u201d. The video for the title track received considerable airplay keeping Michele\u2019s talent visible at every turn on French creole television. Video<\/a><\/p>\n

The island of St. Vincent got a taste of Michele\u2019s 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 \u201cZi\u201d 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)<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Michele continues to perform around the Caribbean particularly in the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique. She\u2019s 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\u2026<\/p>\n

MAJOR PERFORMANCES<\/strong>
\n1995 – DOMFESTA SONG CONTEST WINNER (DOMINICA)
\n1997 – DOMINICAN REPRESENTATIVE AT WORLD SCHOLAR ATHLETE GAMES (RHODE ISLAND \u2013 USA)\/
\nDOMINICAN REPRESENTATIVE AT CARIBBEAN BROADCASTING UNION SONG FESTIVAL (BARBADOS)
\n2000 – CARIFESTA (ST. KITTS)
\n2001 – DOMINICAN REPRESENTATIVE AT FRANCOPHONE GAMES (OTTAWA \u2013CANADA)\/
\nGRENADA SPICE JAZZ FESTIVAL
\n2002 – BARBADOS CONGALINE FESTIVAL\/
\nST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL (JAZZ IN THE SQUARE & JAZZ IN THE SOUTH)\/
\nFETE DE BANANE (LORAIN \u2013 MARTINIQUE)\/
\nFETE DE CAPESTERRE ( GUADELOUPE)\/
\nCHANT DE SIREN (GUADELOUPE & MARTINIQUE)\/
\nWORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
\n2003 – ST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL (HEADLINER \u2013 JAZZ IN THE SOUTH)\/
\nFESTIVAL DE TRINITE (MARTINIQUE)\/
\nFESTIVAL DE ST. ESPRIT (MARTINIQUE)\/
\nFESTIVAL DE AJOUPA BAYU (MARTINIQUE)\/
\nWORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
\n2004 – NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL (USA)\/
\nMV FREEWINDS(PRIVATE CRUISE LINER \u2013 BARBADOS, ST.VINCENT ANTIGUA, ST.KITTS) \/
\nCARNAVAL \u2013 ST. FRANCOIS (MARTINIQUE)\/
\nUCLA JAZZ AND REGGAE FESTIVAL (LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA)\/
\nANTIGUA MUSIC FESTIVAL\/
\nANTILLIAANSE FEESTEN HOOGSTRATEN (BELGIUM)\/
\nLEUVEN ROCK FESTIVAL (BELGIUM)
\n2005 \u2013 ST. VINCENT BLUES FESTIVAL\/
\nST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL\/
\nIGUANA CLUB (ST.VINCENT)
\nMV FREEWINDS (PRIVATE CRUISE LINER \u2013 ARUBA, BONAIRE, CURACAO)
\nROSKILDE FESTIVAL (DENMARK)
\nWORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
\n2006 \u2013 MV FREEWINDS(BARBADOS, ST. LUCIA, ST. KITTS, ANTIGUA)\/
\nJAZZ ARTISTS ON THE GREEN (TRINIDAD)\/
\nST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL\/
\nMV FREEWINDS (ARUBA, BONAIRE, CURACAO)\/
\nIMATRA BIG BAND FESTIVAL (FINLAND)
\nCAF\u00c9 AMIGO, VIRU HOTEL (ESTONIA)
\nSAN FERNANDO JAZZ FESTIVAL (TRINIDAD)
\nCARIFESTA (TRINIDAD)
\nCREOLE & ALL THAT JAZZ (DOMINICA)
\n2007- WORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
\nSAINT HILL MANOR (EAST GREENSTEAD ENGLAND)
\nSHRINE AUDITORIUM (HOLLYWOOD CA)
\n2008- ST. LUCIA JAZZ
\nMV FREEWINDS 20TH ANNIVERSARY (CURACAO)
\nFREEWINDS\u2019 WAY TO HAPPINESS CAMPAIGN (CARTAGENA COLUMBIA)
\n2009- SUMMER FESTIVALS (MARTINIQUE)
\nWORLD CREOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL (DOMINICA)
\n2010- ST. LUCIA JAZZ
\nSAINT HILL MANOR CHARITY BALL (EAST GRINSTEAD ENGLAND)
\nMV FREEWINDS (ABC ISLANDS CHRISTMAS TOUR)
\n2011 \u2013 l\u2019ATRIUM \u2013 (MARTINIQUE)
\nDE MO PI KAT NOT \u2013 (TV PROGRAMME, GUADELOUPE)
\nMV FREEWINDS 23RD ANNIVERSARY (ABC ISLANDS)
\nSHRINE AUDITORIUM (HOLLYWOOD CA.)
\nNARCONON DRUG REHAB ANNIVERSARY CONCERT (MILAN ITALY)
\nCARIBBEAN QUEEN CONCERT @ K\u2019ZA (MARTINIQUE)
\nXMAS CONCERTS (BARBADOS\/ST. LUCIA)
\nFETE MARIN (LES SAINTS)
\nGORDON\/MICHELE\/OPHELIA CONCERT TOUR (GRAND CARBET- MARTINIQUE\/ LAMENTIN GUADELOUPE)
\n2012 \u2013 JAZZ ARTISTS ON THE GREEN (TRINIDAD)
\nSWING CLUB (GUADELOUPE)<\/p>\n

ACCOLADES:<\/strong>
\n1995 EMERGENS AWARD FOR OUSTANDING YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT IN THE REGION (MARTINIQUE)
\n1996 FAME AWARD FOR BEST RECORDING FEMALE ARTISTE (DOMINICA)
\n1998 AUGUISTE ETIENNE AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT (DOMINICA)
\n2003 FAME AWARD FOR SONG OF THE YEAR 2002 (DOMINICA)
\n2003 FAME AWARD FOR ALBUM OF THE YEAR 2002 (DOMINICA)
\n2004 APPOINTED OFFICIAL GOODWILL AMBASSADOR TO DOMINICA
\n2004 YOUNG ACHIEVERS AWARD \u2013 YOUTH AMBASSADOR (DOMINICA)
\n2004 \u201cSPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD\u201d FROM THE CULTURAL DIVISION FOR CONTRIBUTION TO CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT. (DOMINICA)
\n2005 DBS FLAMBOTANT AWARD FOR FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR.
\n(DOMINICA)
\n2006 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FROM THE \u201cGRAND BAY REUNION ORGANISING COMMITTEE\u201d (DOMINICA)
\n2011 LIFETIME AWARD FOR CONTRIBUTION TO CULTURE FROM DIGICEL AND THE GRAND BAY ISIDORE ORGANISING COMMITTEE<\/p>\n

MEDIA FEATURES:<\/strong>
\nMagazines:
\n\u201cShe\u201d magazine, \u201cThe Beat\u201d, \u201cCaribbean beat\u201d, \u201cMaco\u201d, \u201cHome companion\u201d, covers: \u201cKaribik journal\u201d, \u201cFrance Antilles\u201d ETC\u2026<\/p>\n

TV:<\/strong>
\nCaribscope, E-zone, Bet Jazz, Zdf tv-GERMANY, Trace tv ETC\u2026<\/p>\n

Michele\u2019s 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!<\/p>\n

NAME: MICHELE HENDERSON
\nDATE OF BIRTH: 31ST MAY 1979
\nADDRESS: 1545 MABOUCHE GRAND BAY
\nCOMMONWEALTH OF DOMINICA
\nTELEPHONE: 767 446 3614, 767 616 0077
\nEMAIL: michelehendersoninc@gmail.com
\nWEBSITE www.michelemuzic.com<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Krosfyah<\/strong><\/p>\n

Soca\u00a0<\/strong>has never been so cool! Combat boots, baggy attire, brightly colored bandanas adorning funky dreads and coloured \u2018fros;\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0epitomizes coolness.\u00a0 Combined with infectious melodies, high-energy performances and pulsating rhythms that speak a language only one\u2019s hips comprehend,\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0has reinvented soca as we know it.<\/p>\n

For the past fifteen years,\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0has been touring the world inducing fans across three continents into a soca frenzy!\u00a0 Yet despite the group\u2019s sophomore CD\u2019s (Ultimate Party \u2013 Pump Me Up) sales (totaling over 300,000 units to date without the assistance of a major label), the guys remain humble.\u00a0 As Edwin Yearwood, principal songwriter for\u00a0krosfyah<\/em>\u00a0<\/strong>indicates, \u201cWe are just a bunch of island guys who love to play music.\u201d\u00a0 And play music is exactly what they do. Whether entertaining 20 or 20,000,\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0always delivers an\u00a0energized\u00a0<\/strong>performance!<\/p>\n

The evolution of\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0<\/em>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\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0most never imagined this level of success in such a short space of time.<\/p>\n

In\u00a01994<\/strong>,\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0released their debut album,\u00a0\u201cUltimate Party\u201d<\/em>,<\/strong>\u00a0which propelled the group from obscurity to the most popular soca band on the island of Barbados and won them the coveted\u00a0\u201dBand of the Year\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0title.<\/p>\n

In\u00a01995<\/strong>,\u00a0the group released\u00a0\u201cUltimate Party-Pump Me Up\u201d<\/em><\/strong>.\u00a0 Not only did this album produce the hit song,\u00a0\u201cPump Me Up\u201d<\/strong>, which became the national anthem for the youth of Barbados but it travelled across the seas to Canada where it achieved the coveted\u00a0Gold<\/em>\u00a0<\/strong>status in January of 1997.\u00a0 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.\u00a0 The album bestowed unprecedented honors upon its lead vocalist\u00a0Edwin Yearwood<\/strong>:\u00a0\u201cParty Monarch\u201d, \u201cRoad Monarch Champion<\/strong>\u201d and\u00a0\u201cCalypso King\u201d\u00a0<\/strong>in\u00a01995<\/strong>.\u00a0 The triple-crown win by one artiste would mark the first and only time to date, in the history ofBarbados\u2019 Annual Crop Over Festival, that such a feat has ever been accomplished.<\/p>\n

In\u00a01996<\/strong>, the success of\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u2019s third album,\u00a0\u201cAim High\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, led to more awards.\u00a0 The album also produced the hit song,\u00a0\u201cWet Me\u201d<\/strong>, which dominated the music chart in the neighboringisland ofTrinidad and Tobago.<\/p>\n

1997<\/strong>\u00a0brought forth a six track cd, entitled\u00a0\u201cFyah Riddims\u201d,\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>3 tunes from that Album had a good run, those being\u00a0\u201cRoad Block\u201d<\/strong>,\u00a0\u201cHighway Robbery\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0&\u00a0\u201cRedemption of Me\u201d.<\/strong>\u00a0Christmas of that year was a 6 track album entitled\u00a0\u201cFyahside Christmas\u201d,\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>with favourites such as\u00a0\u201cMy Sweet Lord\u201d,<\/strong>\u00a0\u201cNo Christmas Without You\u201d, \u201cJah Son\u201d, \u201cEnd of the Rope\u201d\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0\u201cCelebration\u201d.<\/strong><\/p>\n

During\u00a01998<\/strong>,\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0surfaced from the studio with a new album,\u00a0\u201cHot Zone\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and a new co-lead vocalist, Ray Armstrong.\u00a0\u00a0\u201cHot Zone\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, like all of its predecessors, produced hit songs such as \u201cOil Pumping\u201d, \u201cCalor\u201d & \u201cAppetite\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0which enabled the band to tour across the United States and Europe performing at music showcases and festivals.<\/p>\n

1999<\/strong><\/p>\n

As if not to be stopped,\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0released yet another album\u00a0\u201ckrosfyah.com\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0in 1999 with hits like \u201cAgony\u201d\u00a0<\/strong>(which saw Edwin Yearwood crowned 1999 Party Monarch for the third time), \u201cRagga Beenie\u201d, \u201cForkin\u201d, \u201cBe-sa-me\u201d and \u201cSexy Body\u201d<\/strong>, to name a few.<\/p>\n

2000<\/strong><\/p>\n

The year\u00a02000\u00a0<\/strong>turned out to be no different.\u00a0\u00a0Krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0<\/em>marked their return to their homeland\u2019s cultural festival \u2013\u00a0Crop Over<\/strong>\u00a0-with another remarkable feat.\u00a0 Lead singer with the band,\u00a0Mr. Edwin Yearwood<\/strong>, won his fourth Party Monarch title with the track\u00a0\u2018Fiah Fiah\u2019<\/strong>\u00a0which is featured on his debut solo album\u00a0\u201cInfluenced:<\/em>\u00a0The Good and Badd In Me\u201d<\/em><\/strong>.\u00a0 This album was released alongside\u00a0krosfyah\u2019s<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0own\u00a0\u201cThe Best of krosfyah vol. 1\u201d<\/em><\/strong>. This compilation of hits from the past and including two new tracks, continues to demonstrate\u00a0krosfyah\u2019s<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0musical ingenuity.<\/p>\n

2001<\/strong><\/p>\n

The return to Crop Over for\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0has indeed proven to be one of their best decisions ever.\u00a0 Following the trend of the past years,\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0released yet another pulsating, award winning album.\u00a0\u201cKool Under Fire\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, the name of the album, is a fitting title for this ever-dynamic band.\u00a0 The success of this album includes the Barbados\u00a02001\u00a0<\/strong>Road March tune,\u00a0‘Sak Pas\u00e9’<\/strong>, which was sung by\u00a0Edwin<\/strong>\u00a0and the effervescent\u00a0Khiomal Nurse<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

2002<\/strong><\/p>\n

One would agree that in everything there will be good and there will be bad.\u00a0 However, the success comes when you realize amidst it all you can have the situation\u00a0\u201cLock Down\u201d.<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0krosfyah\u2019s<\/em><\/strong>\u00a02002\u00a0<\/strong>album is certainly a testimony of will power to rise to the top.\u00a0 The album features the Barbados Tune of the Crop third place song\u00a0\u201cRoad Jam\u201d,<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0along with fast pace hits, the likes of\u00a0\u201cFire Man\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0\u201cRide It\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and cool titles\u00a0\u201cSatisfaction\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0\u201cLing Tong\u201d.\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Lead guitarist Anthony Bailey, debuted his solo album entitled\u00a0\u201cUnheard Message\u201d<\/em>\u00a0<\/strong>that same year, a 20 track cd that must be heard.<\/p>\n

2003<\/strong><\/p>\n

Krosfyah\u2019s<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0versatility continues to be evident even in their album titles.\u00a0\u00a0\u201cEnchanted\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, simple but thought-provoking is the title of the\u00a02003<\/strong>\u00a0album. The flava is cool, refreshing and totally\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0(still down-to-earth and for their fans and supporters).\u00a0 One song\u00a0\u201cFamily\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0was specifically written for their faithful supporters, especially those who frequent the message board on\u00a0krosfyah\u2019s<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0website. Other songs include\u00a0\u201cFrench Kiss\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0featuring a French flavoured melody and a ragga-soca number called\u00a0\u201cSorry\u201d<\/em><\/strong>.<\/em><\/p>\n

2004<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cZero Tolerance\u201d<\/em><\/strong>,<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0that\u2019s the\u00a02004\u00a0<\/strong>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<\/sup>\u00a0time, with a song entitled\u00a0\u201cInvasion\u201d,<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0one of the many popular tunes off the album. With other hits such as\u00a0\u201cStrong Back<\/em><\/strong>\u201d<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0\u201cPressure<\/em>\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0by Khiomal,\u00a0Keep Rolling It<\/em><\/strong>\u201d<\/em>\u00a0and the sweet melody of\u00a0\u201cSugarcane\u201d<\/em><\/strong>,<\/em>\u00a0which placed 2nd<\/sup>\u00a0in the People\u2019s Monarch Final. This album is yet another classic example of pure musicianship.<\/p>\n

For their 15th<\/sup>\u00a0Anniversary, December 31st<\/sup>, 2004, the band brought out yet another classic masterpiece,\u00a0\u201cThe Best of<\/strong>\u00a0Krosfyah Vol. 2\u201d,<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0<\/strong>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\u00a0VP Records<\/strong>\u00a0–\u00a0Waistline Music Division<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

2005<\/strong><\/p>\n

2005<\/strong>\u00a0brought forth yet another Musical Masterpiece entitled\u00a0\u201cT<\/em><\/strong>imeless\u201d.<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0As 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\u2019s Remake of Rock in Ethiopia featuring Adonijah, this album is sure to fill your musical pallate for many years to come, signature tunes \u201cHead Gone\u201d, \u201cYardie Graduate\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and \u201cSweetest Thing\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>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 \u201cTimeless\u201d memoirs on this album.<\/p>\n

2006<\/strong><\/p>\n

There\u2019s nothing like\u00a0\u201cSweet Sixteen\u201d,<\/strong>\u00a0and that\u2019s where\u00a0krosfyah\u2019s\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>at for\u00a02006,<\/strong>\u00a0as they celebrate their 16th<\/sup>\u00a0Anniversary in grand style, with a 14 track album entitled\u00a0\u201cEver Blazing\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, and winning \u201cBand of the Year<\/strong>\u201d at the Barbados Music Awards with Mega Hits \u2013 \u201cWelcome to the Band\u201d, \u201cWe Ready to Go\u201d,<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0the ladies tune \u2013 \u201cAgua\u201d, \u201cNo Wall Flowers\u201d, \u201cHot Spot\u201d, \u201cSinking Sand\u201d, \u201cShe\u2019s Got to have It\u201d and \u201cNothing Sweeter\u201d,<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0which are just a sample of the\u00a0fyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0that will melt your ears, as they once again ignite your soul with a EverBlazing Fyah. You\u2019ve just got to have this Album, because there\u2019s nothing Sweeter.<\/p>\n

2007<\/strong><\/p>\n

A year sure does go by fast, blazing on the heels of a very successful 2006 Album, Barbados\u2019 #1 Band is all\u00a0\u201cFire Proofed\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0for\u00a02007,\u00a0<\/strong>winning\u00a0\u201cBand of the Year\u201d\u00a0<\/em>&\u00a0Edwin \u2013 \u201cMale Entertainer of the Year\u201d<\/em><\/strong>.<\/em>\u00a0Soca Soul tunes, such as \u201cIt Feels like\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, \u201cAll my Life\u201d, \u201cIt\u2019s taking Over\u201d, \u201cGot this Feeling\u201d, \u201cHigher\u201d and \u201cJah is your Light\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0<\/em>are just a few to be added to the Halls of Soca. Fiery hits tell the tales of \u201cBashment Bacchanal\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, saying\u00a0Gimme some More<\/em><\/strong>, cause I\u2019ve\u00a0\u201cGot this Feeling\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and that\u2019s \u201cWhere I Wanna Be\u201d<\/em>.\u00a0<\/strong>It\u2019s Soca or Die for this band celebrating 18 years December 31, 2007.<\/p>\n

2008<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Journey\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0continues as this Extraodinary band nips closer to its 20th<\/sup>\u00a0Anniversary. Similarly to 1995 when 3 crowns were won, 2008 proved to be no different, with Khiomal winning Party Monarch with\u00a0Unleash the Beast<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and that he did, whilst Edwin captured\u00a0The Road March Tune\u00a0<\/strong>with\u00a0\u201cHandle ya Bizniz\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0&\u00a0The People\u2019s Monarch<\/strong>\u00a0with\u00a0\u201cNah Missin Me\u201d,<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0which has a signature\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0sound of a Pump me Up and was a huge favourite at home and abroad. The Band won \u201cBand of the Year\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0&\u00a0Khiomal \u2013 \u201cMale Entertainer of the Year\u201d.<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0Speak about a well rounded Album, you will listen to each tune from beginning to end and ask where\u2019s the rest? You may be caught \u201cIn a Jam\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0with a\u00a0\u201cGood Gal\u201d,<\/em>\u00a0\u201cLike So\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>and\u00a0\u201cWe Chippin\u201d<\/em>\u00a0\u201cTill Morning\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0with\u00a0\u201cMy Best Friend\u201d,<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0so\u00a0\u201cStart de Madness\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0\u201cHandle ya Bizniz\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, cause\u00a0\u201cThat\u2019s My Carnival\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0and it\u00a0\u201cNah Missin Me\u201d. Cheenatonah everyone!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

2009<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cKings of the Groove\u201d<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0certainly is a fitting title, with another host of Tunes that will go down in history. Edwin took the\u00a0Road March & People\u2019s Monarch<\/strong>\u00a0titles once again with the uptempo hit tune\u00a0\u201cIn de Middle ah de Road\u201d,\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>and the Band won\u00a0\u201cBand of the Year\u201d, \u201cBand of the Decade\u201d,\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>whilst\u00a0Edwin\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>took\u00a0\u201cMale Entertainer of the Year\u201d & \u201cBest Uptempo Soca Single – Male\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>at the\u00a05th<\/sup>\u00a0Annual Barbados Music Awards 2010.\u00a0<\/strong><\/em>The\u00a0\u201c<\/em>Carnival on my Mind\u201d, \u201cWhole night Long\u201d,\u00a0\u201cTrouble\u201d, \u201cShe\u2019s Going down<\/em><\/strong>\u201d,\u00a0<\/em>among others, allows you\u00a0<\/strong>to\u00a0<\/strong>understand why they are called\u00a0<\/strong>\u201cKings of the Groove\u201d.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

2010<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Experience\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>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 \u201cSoca\u201d.\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0have been through many experiences, which is reflected in their 13 track offering featuring mega tunes such as\u00a0\u201cWe Ain\u2019t had enough, No Cheating, Neighbour, Sugah, Wine on You, Come up to me, and Chrissening\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0just to mention a few.<\/p>\n

\u201c20th<\/sup>\u00a0Anniversary Special Edition\u201d \u2013 Best of krosfyah Vol. 3\u201d \u2013\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Edwin Yearwood & krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>offers you a 3 Box CD set with over 50 of their greatest hits, to celebrate this auspicious occasion. A hint of\u00a0\u201cCalor, All aboard, Yardie, Dushi, Something Greater, \u00a0Doing dis Again, Oba, Ultimate Party, Voice in my head, Sorry, Sweetest Thing, Forking<\/strong>,\u00a0French Kiss<\/strong>,\u00a0Cell Block 3, Strong Back, Jocking ya waist,\u00a0<\/strong>the lifelong anthem\u00a0Pump Me Up<\/strong>\u00a0amongst numerous others. A definite must have. A Special Edition – Collector\u2019s item.<\/p>\n

2011<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cOne on One\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 \u201cBack Again\u201d to have a \u201cGood Time\u201d because \u201cDis Vibe\u201d will \u201cNever\u201d die. These and many more such as the 2011 Road March \u201cCova de Road\u201d can be found on yet another great Volume of hits from the krosfyah crew.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong>While it is true, that\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0are \u201cjust a bunch of islanders who love to play music\u201d,\u00a0krosfyah<\/em>\u2019s<\/strong>\u00a0players\u00a0(Edwin Yearwood, Anthony Bailey, Khiomal Nurse, Corey Jordan, Antonio Rudder, Neil Burnett, and Mario Burnett)<\/strong>\u00a0each add, a unique ingredient to their\u00a0Magical Music<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 The team players of\u00a0krosfyah<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0are as follows:<\/p>\n