Dominica and the rest of the Creole world are mourning the loss of musical legend Fitzroy Williams, a founding member of Exile One and a pioneer of the Cadence-Lypso genre.

Born in 1950 in Massacre, Williams demonstrated a deep love for music from an early age, crafting makeshift instruments from everyday items. His passion led him to St. Mary’s Academy, where he honed his talent in the school’s glee club and talent shows.

In 1969, alongside Gordon Henderson, he co-founded Exile One, a band that revolutionized Creole music by blending cadence and calypso rhythms. His mastery of the organ and synthesizer shaped the group’s signature sound, earning international recognition and leaving a lasting impact on Caribbean music.

Emonews extends heartfelt condolences to Williams’ family, friends, and the entire music community. His legacy will live on through the timeless rhythms he helped create. May he rest in peace.