Dominica Tourism Issue 42

TOURISM UPDATE
Bimonthly Newsletter of the Discover Dominica Authority Issue 42, October 2019
1


WELCOME & TABLE OF CONTENTS Dear Partners,
COLIN PIPER
CEO/Director of Tourism
Photo Credit: DDA Image Library
WELCOME ............................................... 1 DEVELOPING THE TOURISM PRODUCT
AHLEI Certification Training ................. 2 New Airport Dispatch Service............... 2 Delivering Quality Service ..................... 3 Trail Hiker’s Logbook & Passport ........ 3
Destination preparedness for Destination Management Companies............................................... 4
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Riverside Hotel Attains Certification.... 5
DESTINATION MARKETING
Press and Familiarization Trips ........... 6
Diaspora Support in New Jersey & London ..................................................... 6
Trade Event Snippets in
Source Markets....................................... 7
TRADE SHOW &
CONFERENCE REPORTS
Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development............................ 8
RutlandBirdFair ....................................9
Carifesta 2019 ......................................... 9
CRUISE
FCCA Poster Competition.................... 10
EVENTS & FESTIVALS
WCMF 2019 Artistes........................11-21
LOOKING AHEAD
Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival 2019 ........................................................ 22
Rize and Whine ..................................... 22 Cadence-Lypso ..................................... 22 DDA CONTACTS & NEWS....................23
Cover:
Riverside Hotel
Photo Credit: Riverside Hotel
On behalf of the destination, I invite you to join in the celebrations of the 41st anniversary of Dominica’s Independence, observed under the theme “Saluting Resilience and Rejuvenation...Two Years On”, the 21st edition of the World Creole Music Festival and the many other activities being organized by private individuals, groups and organizations for this festive season.
We continue to share the undertakings of the Authority. Keeping with our commitment towards human resource development within the industry DDA hosted the “Delivering Quality Service” workshop for Craft and Souvenir Vendors, Hair Braiders, Tour Guides, Taxi Service Providers, Forestry Park Wardens, DASPA Security Officers, Custom Officers and Immigration Officers; and the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certification Training for current and prospective Front Desk Representatives, Guestroom Attendants and Restaurant Servers.
As a means of encouraging visitors to hike the various trails in Dominica, DDA has launched a hiker’s logbook in which hikers will be able to record their hiking experiences and also be rewarded based on the number of hikes completed. We are delighted to share good news of Hilary Lawrence’s first place award in the senior division of the FCCA 2019 Poster Competition.
Additionally, the destination participated in the Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development in St. Vincent, Rutland BirdFair in London and Carifesta 2019 in Trinidad.
Finally, I wish each one of you a splendid time at World Creole Music Festival 2019 and all the other activities during the Independence festivities and invite you to return for Mas Domnik...The Real Mas in February 2020 and Jazz ‘n Creole in May 2020.
Yours in tourism development,
COLIN PIPER
CEO/Director of Tourism - Discover Dominica Authority
1


DEVELOPING THE
TOURISM PRODUCT
AHLEI Certification Training
Odile Jno Baptiste, Quality Assurance Officer, DDA
Recognizing the need to strengthen the skillset of the tourism human resource base, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) in collaboration with the Organization of the American States (OAS) and the Dominica State College hosted a four (4) week American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) certification training in the areas
of Front Desk Operations, Housekeeping and Food and Beverage. The training ran from August 26 - to September 21, 2019.
Seventy-eight (78) individuals undertook the mandatory one-week orientation along with one (1) area of study. Following successful completion, participants will
be certified in the area of study by the AHLEI. The
pool of training participants was selected by the OAS through a strict pre-screening process. The process was undertaken specifically to capture individuals
who possess the necessary educational and work experience to work within the hospitality industry. Participants included employees of establishments such as the Bayport Inn, Fort Young Hotel, Portsmouth Beach Hotel, Riverside Hotel, Guiyave Restaurant
and Ocean’s Edge Restaurant, as well as prospective hospitality employees.
The training was facilitated by Celestine David a Tourism Product Development Specialist and Certified Hospitality Trainer with over thirty-five (35) years of
New Airport Dispatch Service
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA
Discover Dominica Authority has embarked on an airport passenger dispatch initiative at the Douglas - Charles Airport, effective August 15th, 2019. Two (2) dispatch officers have been employed to work on a shift basis to ensure that dispatch service is available
AHLEI Orientation session Photo Credit: DDA Image Library
leadership experience in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry's both in the private and public sectors, performing the functions of administrator, consultant, project manager and trainer.
This partnership with the OAS reinforces DDA’s commitment to the development of the tourism industry's human resource. The inclusion of this AHLEI training series to DDA’s current tourism service providers training plan provided participants with internationally recognized curricula and cutting-edge learning resources.
DDA anticipates that participants will apply the knowledge gained into their respective fields in order to improve the quality of service delivered to guests and patrons. DDA reaffirms its commitment to the development of the tourism industry's human resource as excellent customer service impact positively on guests’ experiences.
from opening to closure of the airport daily. The dispatch system will allow for data collection which will be able to influence important decisions regarding arriving passengers who utilize the various taxi service options; shared taxi (shuttle), private taxi, groups (families) coupled with the destination overall visitor welcome experience.
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DEVELOPING THE
TOURISM PRODUCT
Delivering Quality Service
Odile Jno Baptiste, Quality Assurance Officer, DDA
Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) recently concluded a four (4) part “Delivering Quality Service” training series. The series targeted frontline personnel such as Tour Guides, Craft and Souvenir Vendors, Taxi Service Providers, Immigration Officers, Custom Officers, Forestry Park Wardens and Dominica Air and Seaport Authority Security Officers. The objectives of the training were to:
• understand the importance of their jobs in visitor satisfaction
• improve people relations through the utilization of effective communication
• understand how positive visitor interactions result in satisfied visitors
Trail Hiker’s Logbook & Passport
Cornealia Durand, Product Development Executive, DDA
The scale and diversity of hiking in Dominica makes our island unique to the Caribbean region. As a means of encouraging visitors to hike the various trails, Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) has developed the Official Trail Hiker’s Log Book & Passport which is a fun way to record one’s Dominica hiking experiences. Hikers will qualify for a chance to be rewarded for their achievements, based on the number of trails hikes completed.
Passports are free of charge and can be obtained from DDA’s main office, Forestry Division, Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association office and Tourist Information Offices at the Roseau Bayfront, Douglas-Charles Airport and Roseau Ferry Terminal.
Trail Hiker's Log Book & Passport Photo Credit: DDA Image Library
One hundred and eight (108) participants successfully completed the training series. The sessions were facilitated by Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) personnel, Sharon Banfield-Bovell and local Training Facilitator Expert Yvonne Armour. The training created an understanding of the role that each individual
plays in delivering quality service, the importance of first impressions, and the value of each individual’s personal brand, impact and attitude. This initiative is aimed at boosting the quality of service at our various ports of entry, sites and attractions and interaction with guests, visitors and customers.
DDA remains committed to elevating the tourism sector through the development of the human resource.
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DEVELOPING THE
TOURISM PRODUCT
Destination preparedness for Destination Management Companies
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executives, DDA
In September, Discover Dominica Authority hosted Gabriel Stowell, Latin America Regional Director
at Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), to experience and assess the state of the tourism product offerings on island. This was undertaken in order
to determine areas of strength as well as areas for improvement and missed opportunities.
Consequently, a workshop was also held with local service providers to discuss the essentials of quality service in the adventure space and to ultimately assess the destination as a potential host for ATTA’s activities.
It is common knowledge that people travel for a variety of reasons; to escape, explore, understand,
and participate. However, at the core of the experience lies the destination — the place that hands something to the traveller to keep forever and share with others. The information shared by the ATTA representative will help us put in place strategies and programs that will best tell the destination’s unique story and become an inviting host for visitors no matter the purpose of their journey.
Stowell provided some personal observations and understandings which can benefit the country’s
overall tourism sector. Dominica possesses some
key strengths with lots of adventure tourism sites
and experiences of interest - with key elements being well preserved, unique and pristine nature- based assets, strong cultural elements, friendly locals,
safe destination, rural areas with strong potential for tourism activities, not overpopulated, not a lot of big chain and all-inclusive hotels which allows for a more authentic experience, good relations between tourism authority and some private sector stakeholders, some certification and standards in place and known festivals.
Through the knowledge gained local Destination Marketing Companies (DMC) can further position themselves to take advantage of the opportunities to further improve the services offered to their clients. DMCs work with hotels and tour activity operators to sell tourism related products to travelers visiting the destination. When working with a DMC, tour operators needs to ensure they provide enough margin in their pricing to support the DMC’s net rate or commission requirements, since a DMC resells tours on behalf of local providers. Building strong, dynamic networks with stakeholders within the industry is very important to promote the destination and to take advantage of the destination’s strengths and opportunities. A DMC has to be a consultant, knowing all the latest places and people, opening to its clients a range of options available in the destination that an outsider would not be aware of.
In conclusion, the need to develop definitive long-range vision for the destination and deciding what Dominica wants to be globally recognized for in the decades to come is of vital importance. This may mean a shift from product development paradigm to experience development paradigm; branding & thematic development for international markets outside typical client base for Dominica, placing less emphasis
on all-inclusive and cruise tourism; and strategic development that will result in high-visibility exposure to the international community- to tour operators, travel media and travellers.
The overarching objective while being to evaluate the destination was also to establish connections and
how we can establish working relationships with tour operators in the US and service providers in Dominica.
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QUALITY ASSURANCE
Inside guest room of Riverside Hotal Photo Credit: Riverside Hotel
Riverside Hotel Attains Certification
Located in Picard, Riverside Hotel is the newest Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) certified property. The property offers fifteen (15) suites in four categories; Sea View, River View, Mountain View and Village View.
Riverside Hotel is a luxurious escape in the middle
of nature. The state-of-the-art rooms overlook the scenic Picard River and a projected view of the historic Cabrits National park. The breath-taking vistas can
be enjoyed from the comfort of your bed or private balcony. Riverside Hotel ensures an unforgettable experience for both business and leisure stay.
Accommodation properties certified by DDA receive increased exposure in various markets, including representation at regional and international trade shows in which the Authority participates, international coverage through hosting of journalists, travel agents and tour operators, as well as listing on the Authority’s website as a certified property.
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DESTINATION MARKETING Press and Familiarization Trips
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA
US Adventure FAM
Personnel from Frosch, Greenspot Travel and Traverse Journeys undertook an adventure focused familiarization trip, from August 3 - 9. The group enjoyed getting to know the island and all the unique experiences for travelers. The whale watching, snorkeling and canyoning experiences as well as
the authentic local cuisine and drinks were all an absolute hit! While Syndicate Nature Trail and Cabrits National Park visits were super informative and very much enjoyed. Overall, it was a very successful visit to Dominica. The operators gave commitment to continue to work with travel agents; assisting with promoting Dominica among their clientele.
Diaspora Support in London & New Jersey
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA
The Discover Dominica Authority continues to support the diaspora communities as they are both ambassadors and potential visitors. The diaspora communities can build tourism through a role as a cultural or promotional ambassador to the potential travellers in their place of residence. As visitors themselves, they contribute substantially to the visitor arrival figures as well as making a meaningful contribution to the local economy.
DDA sponsored a display banner on the Dominica United Kingdom Association’s (DUKA) Mas Dominik UK Carnival float during London’s Nottinghill Carnival. The banner promoted the Nature Island to over 1.5 million revellers and visitors in Europe’s biggest street carnival.
Local bush rum sampling at Islet View Restaurant and Bar Photo Credit: MMGY Myriad
DDA secured three (3) hotel stays from Cabrits
Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica, Picard Beach Cottages and Portsmouth Beach Hotel in support
of the Association of Dominicans in the Northeast USA’s (ADNExUS) annual gala held in New Jersey on September 21, 2019. The hotel stays were auctioned off as part of the fundraising activities which supports ADNExUS’s overall objectives of identifying and supporting programs that promote the island of Dominica in the areas of health, education, community outreach and tourism.
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DESTINATION MARKETING
Sarah-Lynne Rand of Brighter Group selling the destination Photo Credit: Finn Partners
Trade Event Snippets in Source Markets
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA
UK
September is celebrated as Caribbean Month in the UK Market. Dominica participated in the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Caribbean Roadshows in Nottingham on September 17, Leeds on the 11
and London on the 18. Presentations were made to approximately 80 travel agents, who were keen to learn more about Dominica through the OTT training course. There was opportunity to connect and network with key decision makers in the Caribbean tourism industry on September 17 at the CTO UK Chapter Social. A social media promotion using hashtags #CaribbeanMonth, #CaribbeanCalling and #LoveCaribbean supported social media awareness during the month.
The UK team also attended Association of Touring & Adventure Suppliers (ATAS) Conference in Manchester from September 18 - 19. Around 300 agents attended the event where Dominica had a table.
Germany
Team Germany, Tropical Consult, participated in Tour Natur in Düsseldorf; Germany's biggest outdoor
fair, from September 6 – 8. The fair attracted over 45,000 visitors and 275 exhibitors. Several contacts were established during and after the fair. The booth, as partner of the German Hiking Association in the “Hiking Village”, was again very successful since it is exactly the audience Dominica targets.
Local hotelier and dive operator, Tamarind Tree Hotel & East Carib Dive, participated in the Interdive in Friedrichshafen/Germany from September 26 - 29. Destination branding and brochures were displayed and shared at the fair.
Canada
On September 24, Team Canada visited the inaugural Etobicoke Travel and Wedding Show, a small wedding show with 100 attendeees. Destination material was left for people to review. The team has confirmed participation with the show's organizer for next year, as it intends to further promote the wedding and honeymoon niche in the Canadian market.
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TRADE SHOW &
CONFERENCE REPORTS
Caribbean Conference on Sustainable
Tourism Development
Cornealia Durand, Product Development Executive, DDA
The annual Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development is part of the information dissemination and regional awareness component of Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Strategy for Sustainable Tourism. It looks at how member states can design and implement sustainable tourism policies and programmes, offering a regional forum for information exchange on the successes and pitfalls of national, regional and international initiatives.
“Keeping the Right Balance” has been the overall theme of the sustainable tourism conferences, acknowledging that the sustainability of tourism in the Caribbean requires proper co-ordination and the co-operation of all stakeholders, and recognizing the need to maintain the balance between economic, environmental and socio- cultural development. This year’s conference themed: “Keeping the Right Balance: Tourism Development in an Era of Diversification”, comes amidst an intensified thrust to develop the Caribbean more sustainably.
As part of this conference, The Caribbean Tourism Organization in partnership with Compete Caribbean hosted a Community- Based Tourism Master Class where participants were introduced to the Community Tourism Enterprise Handbook. The Caribbean Community-based Tourism Enterprise Handbook is one component of a Community Tourism Toolkit developed by the Compete Caribbean Partnership Facility and the Caribbean Tourism
Organization, as part of the innovation for Tourism Expansion and Diversification Project. The handbook was designed to build the capacity of the Caribbean tourism sector to enhance and promote community -based tourism experiences and product offerings. It provides information on business planning processes, provides guidance on systematic product development and offers tools and resources for financial management.
The primary objective of this handbook is to equip CTO member countries with the know-how to create and deliver successful community-based tourism experiences and to adopt and utilize the handbook while defining and developing a national community-based tourism strategy.
In recognition of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal # 11 of making cities, inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable, Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) saw it fit to attend this conference in order to acquire a better understanding of how communities
in Dominica can be better able to develop successful community- based tourism experiences and employ
the handbook to better establish their businesses. In accordance with the Dominica Tourism Master Plan 2020 – 2030, the Government is committed to strengthening partnerships and offering a greater role to communities in tourism development, thus DDA’s commitment to provide an enabling environment, supporting community- based tourism in terms of development and encouraging sustainable community-based tourism initiatives.
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TRADE SHOW &
CONFERENCE REPORTS
Rutland BirdFair
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA
Destination Dominica was promoted at Rutland Birdfair (Birdfair) as a desirable location for nature and wildlife travelers, in Rutland Waters from August 16 -18. The British birdwatching fair is jointly organized by the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and is the largest exhibition of its kind in Europe. Birdfair reaches all parts of the birdwatching and conservation industry and is the embodiment of the ‘think globally, act locally’ ethos.
Dominica wows at CARIFESTA 2019
Samantha Letang, Marketing Executive, DDA
A forty-one (41) member delegation inclusive of members of Karina Cultural Group, Sibouli Massacre Cultural Group, Waitukubuli Dance Theatre Company, drummers from Petit Savanne, Mahaut, Paix Bouche and Ti Bwa groups, Ophelia Marie and Signal Band showcased Dominica at CARIFESTA XIV, held in Trinidad and Tobago from August 16 – 25, 2019.
A cultural showcase entitled “Evolusyon” highlighted aspects of Dominica culture during the Dominica night, to a much-appreciated audience.
Dominica also had a display booth in the Country District, promoting the destination along with educating persons on items manufactured in Dominica to include herbal teas, soaps, rums and rum punches. In addition, there were 3 craft booths with Kalinago craft, leather goods
and other hand-made artifacts for sale. Dominica also participated in art exhibitions as well as featuring two (2) films at the Carifesta Film Festival; one from Alwin Bully - Oseyi and the Masqueraders and the second from Michael Lees - Uncivilized.
Birdfair has shown itself to be the ideal platform to appeal to nature lovers and to showcase destinations that are eco-friendly and nature focused. Dominica was first represented at Birdfair in August 2017, and therefore
a repeat appearance continued to raise awareness of Dominica as a birding and nature adventure paradise,
in this key UK market. As it has done in previous years, Birdfair saw an excellent turnout of UK and overseas nature, wildlife and birding enthusiasts celebrating conservation and the natural world. The audience was largely 50+ years olds, however, there were also a number of younger nature lovers and families in attendance. Visitor numbers exceeded 25,000.
Carifesta - Traditional Dance Photo Credit: DDA Image Library
From all accounts Dominica represented well at CARIFESTA 2019, with our artistes performing on a regional stage giving way to greater prominence and regional visibility. Plans are underway for CARIFESTA 2021 to be held in Antigua.
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CRUISE
Hilary N Lawrence and his Winning poster Photo Credit: Hilary N Lawrence
Dominica emerges 1st in 2019 FCCA Environmental Poster Competition
Deslyn Simon, Quality Assurance Assistant, DDA
Saint Mary’s Academy student, Hilary N. Lawrence, secured first place in the senior division of the
2019 Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Environmental Poster Competition. He will be awarded cash prize of USD$ 3,000. In addition, a special luncheon will be held in his honor aboard a cruise ship during the 2019/2020 cruise season. This year’s competition was held under the theme” Solutions For Ocean Pollution”.
Lawrence’s win also afforded the Saint Mary’s Academy to be awarded USD $3,000. Samuel J. Fontaine
from Warner Primary School who also participated
in this year’s competition, will be receiving a check
for USD$200 for reaching the final round of the competition.
Held annually, the FCCA Environmental Poster Competition seeks to promote and stimulate environmental awareness among Caribbean students, while effectively educating our younger generation on the importance of environmental protection.
Participation in the 2019 FCCA Environmental Poster Competition came from the Warner Primary School, Dominica Grammar School, St. Luke’s Primary, Orion Academy and Saint Mary’s Primary. The annual FCCA Environmental Poster Competition is locally coordinated by the Ministry of Tourism & Culture through the Discover Dominica Authority. The selection of the posters for submission to FCCA was judged by local artists of the Waitukubuli Artist Association.
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
NIGHT ONE
Asa Banton
Asa Bantan, whose given
name is Asa Edwards, has
amassed a huge following
since breaking onto the
music scene in Dominica
and across the region
almost a decade ago. The
undisputed bouyon boss
has many hits such as “Wet
Fete”, “Strictly Local”, “I
Know People/Last Name”,
“Do Something Crazy”, “I Sing Di Truth”, “Task Force”, “Take It Anywhere”, and so much more. He is known locally for his affiliation with several notable business houses and his philanthropic events.
Throughout its existence, Nu Look has provided fans with several mega hits including, “Loving You”, “Why Do You Say You Love Me” and “Notre Histoire”. Since the 2002 release of Nu Look’s debut album, “Big Mistake”, fans began declaring their allegiance to the band they regard as one of the HMI’s living legends of Compas.
Under the leadership of maestro Arly Lariviere, Nu Look has become a household name for Compas music lovers across the globe. Having played in numerous venues throughout the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe, Nu Look is known for pleasing every crowd, every time. Taking over the world of Compas has not been a simple task, but it is each musician’s love for the craft that keeps him motivated to continue bringing fans the music they demand.
At present, Nu Look is preparing for more performances across the globe. The band just released “No Stress”, its seventh studio album.
ColtonT
Born and raised in Goodwill, Dominica, ColtonT is labeled one of the most popular young talents on the island. The rising star was first introduced to
the music industry at the
age of 15 when he had the
opportunity to learn the art
of lyrical composition and
music recording from a
local producer. The experience sparked a keen passion and in 2010 ColtonT produced his first mixtape titled “Ascendance”. The release sold over 2000 copies in one night and established him as ‘one to watch’ in the dancehall & reggae scene.
Continued on page 12
Nu Look
Since Nu Look hit the Compas music scene on December 1, 2000 it has quickly become one of the Haitian music industry’s (HMI) leading bands. After 15 years and six studio albums, Nu Look has revolutionized the new generation of live Compas, or “Konpa Direk,” while also becoming the foremost composer of the HMI’s favorite Compas love songs. With its unique sound and charismatic performances, it is no wonder why Nu Look continues to dominate the industry.
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
ColtonT’s popularity within Dominica and the Caribbean grew as he became the first successful Dancehall/ Reggae artiste from the country. He quickly blew up
the local circuit, performing at almost every local event on island then scoring his first hit in 2013 with a single dubbed “Icecream Man”. The video reached number one on the Cross Caribbean Countdown on Tempo Networks within the first week of its release. The melodious single is a classic with its popular catch line, ‘All Girls Wanna Have a Cup, But She Want My Ice Cream Truck’. Demand for ColtonT continues to gain momentum after an electrifying live performance on home soil at his “Bomb In The City” concert. ColtonT has shared the stage with Damian Marley, Kerwin Dubois, Beenie Man, I-Octane and Konshens to name a few.
Davido
David Adeleke better
known by his stage name
Davido, is a Nigerian
singer, songwriter, and
record producer. Born
in Atlanta and raised
in Lagos, Davido made
his music debut as a
member of the music
group KB International.
He studied Business
Administration at
Oakwood University before dropping out to make music. Davido rose to fame in 2011 with the release of “Dami Duro”, the second single from his debut studio album “Omo Baba Olowo” (2012).
In 2012, Davido won The Headies Award for Next Rated. Between 2013 and 2015, he released the hit singles “Gobe”, “Skelewu”, “Aye”, “Tchelete (Goodlife)” featuring Mafikizolo, “Naughty” featuring DJ Arafat, “Owo Ni Koko”, “The Sound” and “The Money” featuring Olamide.
In January 2016, Davido announced on Twitter that he signed a record deal with Sony Music. Few months after signing with Sony, Davido founded the Davido Music
Worldwide (DMW) record label. It was in April 2017 that he renegotiated his contract with Sony due to creative control issues and released five singles in 2017 after restructuring his contract, including “If” and “Fall”. The former generated worldwide social media activity, while the latter became the longest-charting Nigerian pop song in Billboard history.
WCK
WCK is a Dominican musical force formed in 1988 to fill a void left by several of Dominica’s most internationally recognized bands such as Exile One, Grammacks and others. The group heralded a resurgence of live music and created a new wave in Dominican musical evolution. WCK dominated the musical landscape for more than two decades with a string of hit songs and a legion of fans who grooved to their music throughout the region as well as in the UK, Canada, USA and everywhere
their music was played. Affectionately known as CK, the band’s sound is a Dominican and Caribbean cultural and musical highlight of the last and present century.
The band which brought us “Culture Shock”, “Balance Batty”, “Original Hold Them”, “Bouyon Connection”, “Pride and Joy”, “Riddim Like Rain”, “Mete Veye” and so much more is a relatively new outfit led by the venerable bassman Keith Goddard of the original WCK and comprised of other talented Dominican musicians who continue to keep the Bouyon sound playing.
Continued on page 13
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS
WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
Patrice Roberts
Trinidadian soca diva
Patrice Roberts has one
of the most impressive
and diverse catalogs of
any soca artiste, male
or female. Roberts' first
international recognition
came from the song
"The Islands" recorded
with her cousin Bunji
Garlin. Shortly after,
Patrice joined Machel
Montano's HD Band and
was featured on several of their recordings and live performances.
In 2006, Patrice Roberts became the youngest female artiste to win a road march title with the song "Band of D Year” which also featured Montano. She consistently released hits in the years to follow building an impressive catalog with classics such as "Sugar Boy", "Mo Wuk" and "Wukking Up".
After taking a break to become a mother, she returned with "Big Girl Now" now widely considered as her signature song. Some of her other recent hits include "A Little Wine", "Old and Grey" and "Sweet Fuh Days". Patrice is a seasoned stage performer who has opened for Beyonce.
NIGHT TWO
Buju Banton
“Be strong,” sang Buju Banton the
last time he set foot onstage before a live audience. “Hold a firm meditation. One day things must get better.” The date was
January 16, 2011. The occasion was a concert in Miami’s Bayfront Park called “Before the Dawn.” After eleven months in captivity, the legendary reggae artiste had been granted the opportunity to perform for one night to help fund his legal defense against an extremely problematic case which had already resulted in one mistrial and allegations of juror misconduct.
Buju was joined by a star-studded lineup of fellow musicians and staunch supporters, from DJ Khaled
and Sean Paul to Stephen “Ragga” Marley and Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley—to name a few. Buju opened his emotional set with “Close One Yesterday,” a song about surviving against all odds. “Don’t you go down,” he sang. “Keep your head above the water. One day things must get better.” His final selection of the night was a prayerful rendition of “Psalms 23” alongside Gramps Morgan: “Goodness and mercy all my life shall surely follow me / And in Jah’s house forevermore my dwelling place must be.” A few weeks later, Buju’s album “Before the Dawn” won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album—the artiste’s first win after four previous nominations. But it would prove to be a bittersweet victory.
Buju Banton came into the game like a champion. His voice was a lionesque roar that instantly electrified listeners, sounding impossibly powerful coming from a youth with such a skinny frame.
Even after Buju managed to elevate himself to become an internationally renowned recording artiste, Buju never forgot the poverty of his childhood years. He has used his music to serve as a voice for the voiceless, and he recently established the Lend a Hand Foundation to make a difference in the lives of at-risk children, both in Jamaica and all around the world.
In years to come, Buju Banton would elevate his stature within the world music community, collaborating with American rap stars like Fat Joe as well as the rock band
Continued on page 14
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS
WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
Rancid, not to mention his close working relationship with the Marley family. He toured the world, spreading consciousness-raising music to the four corners of the earth. He also built up his own studio on Red Hills Road in Kingston Jamaica, establishing his own Gargamel Music imprint to release his own work and give aspiring youths a chance to be heard. He continued releasing timeless albums like Inna Heights, Unchained Spirit, and Friends for Life.
“There is a big void without Buju Banton in the music,” veteran reggae singer Cocoa Tea told Billboard. “He was always touring, always working. He started that work
as a teenager, and he worked until he was decades into his career,” said Pat McKay, director of programming for reggae at Sirius XM. “In that time he built a world community fanbase. They still miss him and they still want to hear from him. His work still has value, it’s still quotable and the aspirations of that work will always ring true.”
It has been a long time coming, but the dawn Buju sang about in his Grammy-winning album is almost here. And just as the artiste promised, “Joy cometh in the morning.”
Bunji Garlin and
Fay-Ann Lyons
A true Caribbean artiste
Bunji Garlin bridges
the gap between the
Caribbean's most well-
known musical genres
of reggae and soca. A
consummate performer
known for his fiery lyrics,
and fearless freestyles
Bunji first rose to
prominence in his native
Trinidad and Tobago as the
Ragga Soca Monarch, before capturing multiple Soca Monarch titles. “Differentology” took Bunji's sound beyond the Caribbean. He continued to expand his sound collaborating with EDM powerhouses such as
Major Lazer on tracks such as “Its a Carnival”. Bunji Garlin is available as a solo performer, in combination with Fay-Ann Lyons and/or the Asylum Band.
Fay-Ann Lyons has
been turning heads with
her tantalizing stage
performances and high
energy soca songs
including “Display” and “This is Carnival”. In 2008 Faye- Ann won her second road march title with the infectious “Get On”. She followed up in 2009 with yet another road march title while making history as the first female to win the Soca Monarch title with her "Meet Superblue". She also won the Groovy Soca Monarch with "Heavy
T Bumper". She is available as a package with Bunji Garlin, on tracks or with the Asylum Band.
Cadence All Stars
Cadence will be represented by an all-star cast from Dominica made up by Gordon Henderson, Ophelia Marie and Linford John.
Gordon Henderson
Gordon Henderson
who was raised in the
town of Portsmouth
on Dominica’s north-
west coast, was a child
prodigy who wrote
and sang his own
compositions from an
early age. A calypso
performer at his alma-
mater, the Saint Mary’s
Academy, Gordon would go on to play with a number of outstanding local bands during the early period of the 1970’s. In 1971, he would travel to Guadeloupe and join
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
up with the then popular Vikings Guadeloupe, penning the highly popular soul track, “Love”, which would propel him to instant stardom in the French West Indies. He would use his success with Vikings to attract a group of young exciting Dominican musicians, including Fitzroy Williams, Julie Mourillon, Vivian Wallace, Oliver Cruickshank and Kremlin Fingal with Guadelopean Pierre Labor, to form what became the creators of a new music genre, Cadence-lypso.
Ophelia Marie
Ophelia who burst onto
the music scene in the late
1970’s with her mega hit,
“Aie Dominique”, which has
sold in excess of 100,000
copies, is a Dominican
institution, who has
transcended the musical
landscape of her native
Dominica and has become
a major force on the music
scene throughout the Creole- speaking world and
in many parts of the wider Caribbean. She is widely credited for inspiring a new generation of singers and performers from Dominica and the Creole world to world-class super-stardom.
The award-winning singer has won many awards in Dominica and in other parts of the world for her music, her community activism and pioneering spirit in several areas of social and cultural development. Among the many awards she has received include The Sisserou medal of honour in 1989 and the Caribbean Cultural Icon award from the CARIFESTA committee - the only person to be awarded in the musical field. Of all the awards she has received Ophelia cherishes her Lifetime Achievement Award received from Sacem in Martinique the most. She is also very appreciative of her first one, the Maracas d’Or in Paris in 1981, as well as the Golden Drum Award in Dominica in 1986.
Ophelia is a university-trained social worker. Her social action reaches several chorales, cultural enthusiasts, senior citizen groups and the youth
Linford John
Linford John who is the
former front-man for Bill-
O-Men, a 1970’s Cadence
band, and is considered one
of Dominica’s best vocalist,
will bring to the stage his
powerful vocals, smooth
stage presence and dynamic
personality. Together with
other Dominican musicians
such as Fred Nicholas,
George “Zyro” St. Hillaire, Roger Aaron and Andrew “ Bird” Bellony, they teamed up with the late Bill Thomas, to create the highly versatile Bill-O-Men, one of the greatest ever Cadence bands which unfortunately only stayed together for just about two years. Linford’s vocal prowess in the French Antilles, having also played with 70’s popular Martiniquan band, Simon Girard, made him an early choice to lead the legendary Kassav. The Salisbury native, who is now based in the USA and still plays music, is from a generation of musicians who gave Dominican music its distinctive sound and world- class character. Known for his vocals on such hits as “Voisine”, “Marie Claude”, “Mon Dieu”, “Ma Famille
et Moi”, and “Greve General” with his Bill-O-Men bandmates, he promises festival patrons more magic and more nostalgic moments to savour and take back with them long after the festival is over.
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
Triple Kay International
To date, Triple Kay is one of the most popular bands
in the region with numerous music videos and live shows broadcasted on various international television networks and social media sites and the name has become synonymous with excitement, hype, showmanship and energy. The band has performed at many festivals locally and abroad and has proven to be proud ambassadors of Dominica.
Zouk All Stars
Zouk will be represented by artistes from Dominica, Martinique and St, Martin. The Zouk All Stars will be made up of Mel, Princess Lover, Eric Virgal and Oswald.
Mel
She has been referred
to as the Rihanna of the
French world, The little
Dominican Pearl and The
Nature Isle’s Flower (all
references to her island of
birth, Dominica). Beautiful,
young and very talented,
Mel is quickly becoming a
household name, and face.
Her voice is smooth and soothing, and makes listeners not want to leave. Even more extraordinary is her mixture of English, French, Creole and even Spanish in her original compositions. With over sixteen million (16M) combined Youtube views, this little island gem is quickly rising to stardom with hits such “No Money No Lovo”, “En Fwa” and “Touch Me”.
Princess Lover
Princess Lover, whose real name is Nicole Neret, is a zouk singer, who combines with ease her other musical influences such as reggae, French and international variety, soul and even
“Journeying to take Dominica and its music throughout the world” is the motto that governs the efforts of the group and fosters the environment for its eminence during its reign.
The name of the band stems from the three founding members (hence the word Triple) from the scenic village of Laudat whose main goal was Kulture And Youth.
Over the years, this three-member group has grown
into a full eleven-member band of dedicated, talented hardworking members who have collectively contributed tremendously to its continuance and growth.
To date, the band has produced over 9 albums. Their latest being “Bubblin” in 2012. The main goal of the band is to please its fans all over the world. In addition to the Bouyon Music, which is a musical genre coming from the homeland Dominica a beautiful island in
the Caribbean, they also play zouk, compass, reggae, cadence, and dancehall. The mastering of these different types of music created significant growth, taking the band to a whole new level. In this new technological
era, the production of complete cd’s / albums may not be a prudent business decision therefore the band has concentrated on producing a number of singles and music videos throughout the year keeping current with the times and also allowing the fans to catch what’s new almost instantaneously.
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
R&B, her interpretations and her musical color. This lovely Martiniquan is an exceptional songwriter and performer who even lends herself to the production game on certain occasions, and makes us travel with her writings, her melodies, her emotions and her wide enchanting vocal performances.
In 2003, Princess Lover began her solo career with the album entitled JUSTE MOI Part1 at PL records / Section Zouk. The album immediately invaded the world of Afro- Caribbean music with its diverse rhythms, mesmerizing voice, piercing melodies and the many featurings like those of Sonia Dersion, Jocelyne Labylle, Ali Angel, Frederick Wurtz, and his brother Master MX. The album was certified album of the year and sold more than 70,000 copies.
“Mon Soleil” the first single from the album, became
a world-wide phenomenal success, rewarded by an Afro-Caribbean Arts Trophy that bestowed on her
best female performer of the year 2006. This song is definitely a Caribbean classic. Today, everyone knows her hit “Mon Soleil”, she sells thousands of copies of her albums and has more than 130,000 fans on Facebook who she calls “Mes Soleils”.
Eric Virgal
Eric Virgal, born in Fort-
de-France in Martinique,
is an author, composer,
performer of zouk and
French producer. He also
produces events and TV
shows for Martinique,
Canadian and American
television. His hit songs
have seen him touring
the French West Indies,
Haiti, French Guyana, Africa, France, etc. He has made many duets with the singer Orlane. On his 2002 album “ZikZag”, he composed the song “Aimé Césaire” in homage to the poet.
Oswald
Born Oswald Clerveus,
in French St. Martin this
zouk, RnB, Compa singer,
songwriter and producer
goes by the stage name
“Oswald”. Oswald, who
became an orphan at
age 13, when he lost
his parents, has been
channeling his emotions
into his songs, making him
a passionate musician with deep sincerity in his lyrics.
In 2007, he won the fifth edition of the “Defi Lyceen” in Guadeloupe, where he faced sixteen other Caribbean participants. He has performed alongside noted musicians such as Ralph Tamar, Tania Saint-Val, Dominique Coco, and Martine Sylvestre.
His first maxi single “My life” recorded in Yard Studio in Saint Martin has become a favourite amongst his fans. In 2010, Oswald released singles “Nan Lanmou laj pa ekziste” and “Ton absence” a duo, which featured the talented Misty Jean. In 2011, he released “I Need Your Body” which instantly became a hit worldwide.
He released his first studio album on April 15, 2011. Oswald’s songwriting, composing and singing skills coupled with his ability to sing in English, Creole and French makes him a versatile musician able to perform, entertain and thrill audiences in any environment.
Extasy Band
Founded in 2009, Extasy is a 9 member Dominican band known for their Caribbean fusion style that is heavily influenced by their Creole culture. The band’s music has a strong Haitian Compas foundation with elements of other genres to include Dominica’s Bouyon and Cadence, Reggae from Jamaica, Soca from Trinidad, and sounds from Latin Caribbean which combine to form their unique hybrid sound.
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
Continued on page 18
To date Extasy has
released eight (8)
singles, “Moutwe Yo”,
“All of Me”’ (a Compas
cover of the popular
John Legend’s song),
“Doudou Pa Kite”,
“System Bande”,
“Pouvwa Lamou”,
“Fanatic Compas”,
“My Love” and “If you
Don’t Know Me” which have all been fan favourites and its latest single “Away”, which is a crossover love song sung in English and Creole.
Extasy’s extensive and diverse repertoire, combined with steady performances around the island, has earned them a huge grassroots following. They are no stranger to the bar circuit where they developed their following and perform at a number of private events each year.
NIGHT THREE
Romain Virgo
Romain Virgo is a young Jamaican singer- songwriter equal parts lover and freedom-fighter with themes of love and social-commentary being prominent subjects of
his songs such as “Caan
Sleep” and “Who Feels
It Knows It”. Virgo is also
well-known for reggae-
got-soul-remakes of popular songs such as Michael Bolton's “Soul Provider”. Virgo’s ascent to prominence began with the television choir contest All Together Sing in 2006. The following year he became the youngest contestant at the age of 17 to win the Digicel Rising
Stars competition, Jamaica's most popular talent search competition.
Romain Virgo has since evolved into one of reggae music's most promising stars with his uplifting and entertaining music and performances. His positive contribution to the musical landscape has been widely recognized; UK crooner Sam Smith approved Virgo's cover of Smith's “Stay With Me” via twitter while Jamaica's Prime Minister presented Virgo with The Youth Award for his outstanding contribution to the field of Arts and Culture. He also earned a standing ovation from country music's elite in 2011 as the first Jamaican artiste to perform at the Academy of Country Music Awards in Nashville, Tennessee.
The charismatic yet humble entertainer is in constant demand, performing annually on festivals worldwide including Germany's Summerjam and Jamaica's Reggae Sumfest.
Etana
Etana is a Grammy
nominated reggae soul
singer/songwriter who
focuses on uplifting
messages and
inspirational music. Etana,
whose name means "the
strong one" in Swahili is
widely considered as the
leading female voice in
contemporary reggae music. She rose to prominence in 2006 with her breakthrough track “Wrong Address”, an emotive lament reflecting the lack of employment prospects for Jamaicans living in violence-plagued communities. The fusion of acoustic folk with roots reggae cadences and strains of neo soul influences heard in “Wrong Address” would become her signature sound. “Wrong Address” reached number 1 on several Jamaican charts.
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
Etana's critically lauded debut album “The Strong One” included the duet with Italian reggae artiste Alborosie “Blessings” and her unwavering declaration of self- assurance “I Am Not Afraid”.
She has since amassed an impressive catalog with a diverse range of releases including “Roots”, “Reggae (Your'e the One)” and “Better Tomorrow”. The Strong Army, her intensely loyal fan-base have helped in making Etana one of the most in-demand reggae artistes. In 2018 Etana made history by becoming the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy award in the category of Best Reggae Album.
VAYB
The landscape of Haitian music has changed and enriched by the colors and sounds of VAYB. A new generation of Compas has emerged. The group’s styling infuses diverse genres of music that transcends cultures and sounds, bringing a fresh and innovative blend to Haitian culture.
VAYB compromises 8 talented members. Their musical careers began separately but today they have joined forces and strive to keep their music fresh, animated, yet imprinted with the Compas rhythms. With musical icons like Mickael Guirand from Carimi and Shedly Abraham, one of the most talented drummers and producers in the industry, VAYB with only a year and a half under their belt will take no time to conquer the all so demanding Compas fans.
VAYB is currently based in New York and has performed throughout the world, most notably in US cities Miami, Boston, Chicago, Atlanta, Orlando, and many more. Throughout their most recent tours in Martinique, Guadeloupe, France, Canada, the band has participated in the promotion of Haitian Compas and strengthened its footprint.
The group has defined a versatility that enables them to deliver a debut album “Game Over” filled with melodies that will captivate audiences and also reveal their talent, their originality in each track and bring about a renaissance.
Signal Band
Formed August 2010, Signal Band has introduced to Bouyon Music a distinct attention to lyrical craft, infectious melodies and rhythms.
The youthful group has adopted a style which it dubs as Bouyon Love with two successful projects of that kind; “Baby Come Back” and “Ani Ba Yo Love.” In 2018, Signal Band released its debut Bouyon album “Signature”, with domestic and regional features, allowing it to top Dominican and Caribbean streaming charts. Other successful projects of the band include “Riddim Drop”, “Land of D Bouyon” and “10:1”. The group of young Bouyon Ambassadors has travelled to perform these singles and many more in countries such as Anguilla, Bequia (St. Vincent & Grenadines), and Trinidad &
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EVENTS & FESTIVALS WCMF 2019 ARTISTS
Tobago for Carifesta XIV. They have showcased their versatility through accompaniment of QTS Talent Search, DBS Christmas Song Contest, Junior Calypso Monarch, Farmer Nappy, Kerwin Du Bois, Preedy, Marzville, Dominica’s Lady of Song Ophelia Marie, and participation in the NCCU Cadence-Lypso Competition.
In its capacity as promoter, the group has successfully hosted several events; with the highest in magnitude being Lumi-Nation Jouvert Band, 2-peat Best Jouvert Band awardees.
Signal continues to support numerous events and pageant contestants in the capacity of sponsor. The group has donated to non-profit organizations while being the host of two anti-violence campaigns, thus being awarded at the National Youth Rally 2013 for Music and Community Development.
Soca Stars
Soca Stars will be well represented by Mr. Killa from Grenada, Tasha P from Dominica and Motto from St. Lucia.
Mr. Killa
The winner of the International Power Soca Monarch title in 2019, Mr. Killa made history as the first non-Trinidadian to win the competition with his undeniable hit “Run Wid It”.
Born Hollice Mapp in
Grenada, Mr. Killa is a
versatile soca singer
and an exceptional entertainer. His unique sound incorporates elements of EDM, dancehall and other genres while remaining authentic soca. His electrifying stage presence defies explanation; it must be experienced to be truly understood.
A favorite in his native Grenada for many years, Mr. Killa won his country's first ever National Teen Talent Search Competition at the age of 15. He would go on to win his first National Soca Monarch title in 2004 with “Thunder Rags”. This earned him a place in Trinidad and Tobago's International Soca Monarch competition in 2005 where he finished in the top 5.
In 2006 Mr. Killa won Grenada's Groovy and Soca Monarch titles. He pulled another double-win three years later by winning the Soca Monarch and Road March titles in 2009.
While other regional hits and titles followed “Rolly Polly”, Mr. Killa's tribute to plus-plus-sized women went viral in 2014 making him a household name throughout the Caribbean. The popularity of the song and its accompanying music video led to performances throughout the diaspora and by the end of the 2014 season Mr. Killa was widely considered the best stage- performer in the Caribbean. 2018's “Oil It” also became an internet sensation with dancers and dance crews from as far away as Korea, Russia, Chile and Norway posting their choreographed videos. In 2019 Mr. Killa went viral again with the song “Run Wid It” a call to action which had fans at his performances picking up anything they could get their hands on including other fans and running with it. His first release after the title “Advantage” quickly became a crowd favorite.
Mr. Killa’s international appeal has led to performances in China, Europe, Latin America and beyond.
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Tasha P
Tasha P, well known for
her soulful and melodious
musical chords, began her
musical career when she
was only 5 years old and
joined her school choir. She
would later compete in the
Junior Calypso Monarch
before moving on to the
big stage to compete in the
National Calypso Finals
which she won in 2011,
making history as the first
female to win that title in Dominica. Tasha P participated in singing competitions locally such as the Digicel Rising Stars in 2006, 2007 and 2008. She is also an active member of the Sixth Form Sisserou Singers, a chorale music group. Tasha P is best known for her performances with the Swingin Stars band which she joined in 2009 and more recently for her collaboration with Machel Montano in the last 5 years. She has also participated in other regional calypso competitions where she performed creditably even winning the WIW Calypso Monarch competition in 2014.
Motto
Lashely 'Motto' Winter is a soca artist from Saint Lucia who is one of the leading artists in the Dennery-Soca genre. A native of Grace, Vieux Fort Motto migrated to the US in 2012 where
he currently resides in
Brooklyn, New York. A self-
taught musician/producer,
Motto explains that “I was
not following music, I was
just doing it for leisure, I was
studying school.” Motto earned a Bachelors in
Mass Communication with a concentration in video production from Barton College in North Carolina. Motto first gained attention with riddims he produced including the Pim Pim Riddim, which featured soca powerhouses such as Machel Montano and “Party Lit” by Motto and Lyrikal.
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