Island Wave, co-founded by Trinidadian artist Kalpee and Miss Vivianna of FVP Global, is on a mission to elevate Caribbean culture through music and community engagement. This June, during Caribbean Heritage Month and Windrush Day, their #RootsRhymesResilience campaign showcased the vibrant cultural heritage surrounding both the islands and mainland nations that make this paradise on earth. The initiative provides a platform for Caribbean artists to shine globally, highlighting the resilient and joyful spirit of a region so acquainted with both tragedy and great human warmth.
For Kalpee, whose personal roots are in the mountainous village of Paramin, the project is a personal endeavor of giving back and loving his people and the magical geographic region that’s seen him grow. Island Wave is nothing short of a heartfelt effort aimed at fostering personal and communal growth.
The initiative has received support from the Trinidad and Tobago Music Company Ltd. (MusicTT), and it’s become virtually a mainstay in SXSW, with 2024 becoming its fourth year as the Official Afro-Caribbean Stage in this prestigious event, championing Caribbean narratives to leave a lasting impact on the international artistic landscape.
Photo: Jik-Reuben Pringle
This year, the campaign featured notable performances from artists like Kanis, who is set to release new music this month, and J Perry, who made a heartfelt debut at Island Wave’s SXSW event, emphasizing unity and resilience in the Caribbean community. Trinidadian artist XAV captivated audiences and will release a new EP this Autumn, while Prince Amine, representing both Antigua and Morocco, showcased the rich diversity of Caribbean heritage. Together, these artists exemplify the vibrant culture that Island Wave promotes.
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