The inaugural Bouyon Festival in New York was a tremendous success, selling out to an eager crowd at Amadeus Nightclub in Queens on Saturday, August 25. The event celebrated Caribbean unity with a vibrant display of flags from various nations, creating an atmosphere of love and togetherness.
Organized by renowned St. Lucian event producer Jay Upscale, based in New York, and Olivier Choisi of KaruKera One Love Music Festival, based in France, the festival introduced Bouyon music to a global audience, promoting unity among Caribbean nationals in the United States. Bouyon, a genre rooted in Dominica, is a dynamic fusion of traditional Caribbean rhythms and contemporary beats. This unique sound seamlessly blends elements of Bele, Quadrille, Jing Ping, Mazouk, Kadans, and goat-skin drums with modern digital influences, creating an electrifying experience that resonates across cultures.
Pioneered by the legendary Windward Caribbean Kulture (WCK Band), Bouyon music merges Cadence-Lypso with Jing Ping sounds, enhanced by pulsating drums and digital beats. The genre has evolved into a global musical phenomenon, captivating audiences worldwide.
This year’s Bouyon Festival lineup was nothing short of spectacular. It featured performances from a diverse range of renowned artists, including Triple Kay, Asa Bantan, Ridge, Pudaz, Burning Flames, Riddle, DJ MJ, Sal Infrared, Luchshiy, 507, Dankers, ByFarMega, and more. Each artist brought a unique style and energy to the stage, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees. The festival celebrates Caribbean culture, representing almost every Caribbean country through a shared love of music.
Shanita Scotland, a vital member of the event’s marketing team, highlighted the significance of Bouyon music, describing it as a flavorful “soup” that blends various musical styles into one energetic and fun experience. She emphasized the festival’s role in elevating Bouyon globally, particularly its inclusion as a prestigious category at the Caribbean Music Awards. “The success of the Bouyon Festival in New York marks a significant milestone for the genre…Bouyon has been celebrated at smaller Dominican parties, but this is the first time it has been showcased on such a grand scale. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, many of whom preferred future outdoor events, motivates us to continue spreading the infectious energy of Bouyon music,” Scotland stated.
Beyond the music, the festival celebrated Caribbean culture and unity, bringing together people from various islands to share in the joy and vibrancy of Bouyon music. As the genre grows in recognition, the Bouyon Festival in New York has set a new standard for how Caribbean music can unite people, transcending borders and creating a true melting pot of sounds and cultures.
