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Showing posts from October, 2023

Padú del Caribe's Musical Tapestry: A Cultural Treasure of Aruba

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  Tichea Ferguson Central Artist: Juan Chabaya 'Padú' Lampe     In  this playlist, we will delve into the unique melodies and music of the Dutch-speaking Caribbean, more specifically we will focus the discussion on Juan Chabaya 'Padú' Lampe. He was born on April 26th, 1920 and died on November 28th, 2019, both in Oranjestad, Aruba.  His nickname "Padú del Caribe" (which means Father of the Caribbean) after the death of his grandfather who had the same name when he was alive. He taught himself how to hone his skills on the clarinet, violin, mandolin, and cuatro, but his preferred instrument was still the piano. During his five decade long career , he has cemented himself as one of the most revered legacies in Caribbean music.  Lampe's musical history dates back to the late 1960's when his debut record entitled, "Padú del Caribe en Venzuela" was released. It went on to sell 50,000 copies in the initial year of release, making him an instant sen

Mizik Rasin: The Powerful Pulse of Boukman Eksperyans' Revolutionary Sound

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Tichea Ferguson Central Artist: Boukman Eksperyans     This curated compilation of songs by the Haitian, Mizik Rasin band, Bouksman Eksperyans, truly dives into the harmonious world of the French-speaking Caribbean. Mizik Rasin is the "roots music" of Haiti. This talented band has been playing together since being founded in 1978 Port-au-Prince by Theodore Beauburn Jr. (Lolo) and his sister and wife, Marjorie and Mimerose Beauburn respectively.  The rest of the band includes a plethora of percutionists, guitarists, and backup vocalists. The band's name is inspired by a Vodou priest, by the name of 'Dutty Boukman', who in 1791 led a ceremony that some people believe to have catalyzed the Haitian Revolution. The second part of the name 'Eksperyans' is the Haitian Creole way of saying 'Experience'.  The band is renowned for its dynamic and captivating live performances, and when their songs are performed on stage, the audience frequently joins in the