The Belle Vue Jounen Kwéyòl Committee has announced that this year’s Creole Heritage Month celebrations will kick off in grand style with a cultural tribute to one of Saint Lucia’s most beloved musical icons, Gregory Sinaise. The free, open-air tribute concert will take place on September 28, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on the grounds of the Belle Vue Combined School in Vieux Fort.
Committee spokesperson Kendall Elva told St. Lucia Times the event is both timely and heartfelt.
“The objective is to highlight and celebrate the rich and proud contribution that Gregory Sinaise has made to the cultural landscape of Belle Vue and Saint Lucia by extension,” Elva said.
Sinaise, a 60-year-old resident of Belle Vue, is known for his dynamic stage presence and socially conscious lyrics. He has served as lead vocalist in several well-known musical groups including David Roots, African Roots, Solutions, and Mistè Lokal. Over the years, Sinaise has become a staple at cultural events such as Jounen Kwéyòl, Jazz, and Oktoberfest en Kwéyòl. Among his most popular songs are Lakouyonte, Souko, and Ti Kesyon. He is also a two time winner of the National Creole Singing Competition in 2014 and 2015.
Elva described Sinaise as not only a talented composer and performer, but also a selfless community advocate.
“Whenever you call on Gaggary to perform at a show in Belle Vue — even when there is no money, he is always willing to perform,” Elva explained.
“He gives off his talent for the betterment of the community of Belle Vue.”
The September 28 tribute will feature a lineup of some of Saint Lucia’s finest folk and contemporary performers, including Avot Sevis, Escape Band, Asiswatin, and Inventions Band. Traditional quadrille performances and folk dances from the Belle Talent Dancers, Vieux North La Rose Group and Belle Vue Children’s Dance Group will also be featured.
The Belle Vue Jounen Kwéyòl Committee is known for honouring cultural icons during their lifetime, a tradition Elva says is a core part of the community’s values. Elva says the upcoming tribute is an opportunity to show Sinaise how truly appreciated he is.
“We are known for not having a dead hero society. We are known for recognising and saying thank you to all of our cultural icons who have made a contribution,” Elva stated.
“Gregory, we love you, and we appreciate all that you have done for us as the people of Belle Vue and Saint Lucia by extension.”
