AJA
A Barbadian poet, musician and photographer, Aja focuses on global issues such as war, poverty, racism and the abuse of women and children. Since the early 80’s, he has produced five albums, performed around the world at music and literary festivals and in 2005, published ane-book anthology of his poems and photographs called “Don’t Let Me Die.”
John King and Jegna
John King burst upon the Barbados calypso scene in 1982. With his versatility and distinctive style, he emerged as one of the Carribean’s most imaginative and proficient artistes.Jegna was hand-picked by John King in 1996. Each member brings immense experience to the band which translates into a high level of energy with every performance. Jegna has shared the stage with many international acts and served as the backup band for The Drifters and Ernie Smith to exceptional reviews.
The Andy Earle Ensemble featuring The Mighty Gabby
Bajan-born vocalist/guitarist Andy Earle is a versatile performer with more than 30 years experience, from subway troubadour to festival stage. Andy’s fiery guitar and baritone drawl is a staple at Barbados On The Water. The Mighty Gabby is a master folklorist whose vocals weave a tapestry depicting the social ills of his beloved Bim. As Barbados’ Cultural Ambassador to the world, he is busy preparing “a new sound with exciting dimensions” for the 21st century.
NEWA With Eyan Allenye
NEWA is a gathering of red-hot jazz musicians playing cool modern jazz, debuting at Barbados On The Water’s stage in 1999. This year, vocalist Eyan Alleyne joins Nicholas Brancker, Eddie Bullen, Wilson Laurencin and Arturo Tappin for yet another set of magical performances at Harbourfront Centre.
Roger Gibbs
Roger Gibbs, a Bajan-born recording artst, has made Canada his home since the mid-80’s. Lead singer, keyboardist, and arranger for the Sandpebbles, a popular 70’s Barbadian dance band, his mature Acoustic Caribbean style reinvents
calypso and folk. His newest CD, ‘Calypso Classics on Guitar’ features classic Sparrow and Kitchener works.
Israel Lovell foundation
The Israel Lovell Foundation is a registered charity founded in 1990, named after working-class Pan Africanist Israel Lovell. It offers
training and education in various practical and cultural disciplines to marginalized Barbadians. The Foundation will showcase traditional Afro-Caribbean Dance, Stiltwalking, Steel Pan, Drumming and Folk Singing in a colourful
and uplifting performance.
The Merrymen Of Barbados
In the early sixties, The Merrymen brought a new sound to Caribbean music and while Beatlemania was taking over the world, Merry-mania was happening in the Caribbean. Together, Merrymen Christopher Gibbs, Stephen Fields, Robin Hunte and Emile Straker have recorded over thirty-five albums, several 45s and eight compact discs and have been on such international labels as RCA, Columbia, Parlophone, EMI, Island Dureco and their own Merrydisc label. Among their two hundred or more compositions are two of the most patriotic songs dedicated to their island home, Beautiful Barbados and God Bless Bim.
Ian, Willie and Carole
Ian, Willie and Carole enjoy making music together and delight in sharing it with their audiences. Together, they bring versatility in their sound and song selection, ranging from bossa nova rhythms, to standards and modern popular music. A few light classics on the pan add a delightful touch.
Andre Woodvine and Band
Andre Woodvine describes his music as “a creative expedition that affects its listeners on both the emotional and intellectual levels.” For his performances in Toronto, he performs with his band – vocalist Betty Griffith-Payne, drummer David Burnett, keyboardist Darien Bailey, and bassist Julian Griffith.
