MUSIC in the Caribbean has acted as a catalyst to social transformation, political and religious uprising and integration. Essentially, we turn to music when we desire to reconnect with a supreme power, when we need to be reminded of the rigours of racial discrimination, political upheaval and modern social injustices.
Caribbean music has been associated with the exposure of social ills such as poverty, teenage pregnancy and corruption in government. Calypso, which originated from Trinidad, is the musical commentary stage of the Caribbean. Each year, calypso comes alive prior to carnival celebrations in the “Nature Isle” – much like what obtains in St. Lucia.
When calypso takes its annual rest, we return to the comforting tunes of reggae: Bob Marley recognized as an international reggae sensation and Dominican reggae artist eNasio Fontaine. Zouk, inspired by music from the French, also has a special place in our hearts and music from the Bouyon tradition has even been embraced in times of partying.
To add to this elite group of genres, we welcome the pulsating “jump and wave” rhythms of Soca. Although Soca is mostly heard in the carnival season, it is used in most social gathering dubbed as a “lime” or “break away” time. Who is your favourite Caribbean music sensation? Tell us on Facebook: Island Neighbours.
NeighbourlyGetAways
Guadeloupe displays a very rich culture. It is common to witness Tanbouanlari la: Drumming with song and dance in the streets;GwoKa, Quadrille and others performed on the streets in Pointe A Pitre very often. Balas Bar and Courtyard in Dominica is the place to be every Friday night. Music from local artistes and dancing erupts in the courtyard as people get together to free themselves from the stressful events of the week. If you’re in Guadeloupe or Dominica, join the fun!
Let’s Go Shopping!
Calling all shopaholics! Building a music collection takes time. Often, you must sieve through hundreds of tracks from multiple genres to find the perfect music for the perfect ambiance. You can be one step closer to fulfilling that task with a visit to Acoustic Video and Music Centre in Roseau, Dominica. Find that memorable classic track with the help of our knowledgeable staff in an easy, well– organized setting. A wide range of music genres can be found: Jazz, Latin, Reggae, Rhythm and Blues, Gospel, Classical and Popular Music. Live a little … shop a little!
History
Historical note! Did you know that Nasio Fontaine’s “Born To Be Free” was the biggest selling single in St. Maarten? Get to know your neighbours!
A bit of the French for the Visitor
Un Musicien: Musician
music
la musique
types of music
Les genres des musique
Rock music
La musique rock
Classical music
la musique classique
Romantic music
La musique romantique
A love song
Une chanson d’amour
An old song
Une vielle chanson
Contemporary Music
La musique contemporaine
I listen to music
j’écoute la musique
dance
La soirée dansante
conductor
Chef d’orchestre
drums
batterie
gig
Cachet/petit boulot