Rosemond Clery, ‘The Senator’, triumphed at the national Chante Kweyol song competition on Saturday night with his song dubbed: “Bon Dieu se a Sent Lisien.”
The event, which took place at the National Cultural Centre, saw ten participants vying for the top spot, showcasing the vibrant Creole culture through music.
Founded in 2012, the competition has become a cornerstone of Saint Lucia’s cultural identity.
This year’s lineup included a diverse range of performances from artistes Sherlan (Mwen paka jwenn koné), Siah (Dé Kouche), DaGreat (Zafé moun), Mig (Fig an lanmowi),Gregory Sinaise (I ja lè), Prospere (Tring pa Tizing), Afwéchi (Tonbé a tè-a), Blaze (LasVeyé), Slot (Baguy pou baguy), The Senator (Bon Dieu se an Sent Lisien) and J Movay (Twavay pou li).
Siah (Chrisiah Gilbert) was in third place, while Gregory Sinaise came in second.
It was The Senator’s third time participating, but his first win. The prizes won were $3,000, $1,500 and $1000 respectively.
Gregory Sinaise won twice in previous competitions, and it was Siah’s second time participating.
Each artiste brought unique flair, contributing to an evening rich in talent and creativity.
In an emotional acceptance speech, The Senator shared his journey to victory, stating, “I left home with one intention: to be successful tonight. I prayed and asked God to give it my best.”
He emphasised the personal significance of his song, which celebrates Saint Lucian Olympic medallist Julian Alfred. “This song lifts up the great achievements she has accomplished for us,” he explained to St. Lucia Times, highlighting the importance of recognising local heroes.
The Senator also spoke candidly about the challenges the Creole language and culture face, expressing disappointment at the lack of public support for events like Saturday’s Chante Kweyol Song Competition . “We need to build and encourage our Creole. If not, we risk losing it,” he warned,
Throughout his speech, he acknowledged the support he received from friends, family, and fellow musicians. “I want to thank my wife and everyone who stood by me during this journey,” he said, recognising the collective effort that goes into creating and promoting Creole music.
In addition, The Senator called for increased government involvement in promoting the competition and other cultural initiatives. “This is a Saint Lucia thing. Let’s promote it together,” he urged.
His message to the public is to preserve the Kweyol language, adding that culture is a collective responsibility requiring all Saint Lucians’ active participation.
Well done Rosemund “Frazer” Clery! He was always an achiever. Back in his youth days he was a St Lucian, OECS and Caribbean amateur light-welterweight boxing champion. Keep going champ!