Bios 2022 - Carols By Candlelight

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Sabrina Francis

Sabrina Francis’ unique musical journey began in 1994 on the small Caribbean island of Grenada. Born to a large family of artistically driven individuals, but in a country where opportunities and access for creatives are very limited, Sabrina found writing and singing to be a second language and ultimately a stepping stone to the artiste she is today.

Making Afro-Caribbean Pop & R&B professionally since 2014, her songs chronicle and share her coping mechanisms for life while reinforcing her belief that the secret to happiness lies in remaining true to yourself and being grateful for everything in your life. This attitude propels Sabrina in pursuit of her goal of having a global impact through her music. Taking advantage of every possible opportunity, Sabrina’s emotive blend of music is often described as spiritual, uplifting, joyful and effortlessly appealing. The overarching theme throughout her songs speaks to female independence, mental health and the shared experiences of hard working individuals reaching for success whatever the situation they may be in. Although quiet and controlled in demeanour, Sabrina is very adventurous and playful with her music. Pulling from the array of musical influences she’s had growing up, the singer isn’t shy about experimenting and incorporating different styles in her musical creations, which has led to an individual sound that is sure to forge its own distinctive path in the musical arena. She’s released three bodies of work so far, ‘Think In Colour’, ‘I Feel’ her second album and her EP ‘Million Moments’. In 2019, her song ‘I Feel’ earned a finalist prize in the John Lennon Songwriting Competition. In 2020, she launched ‘Sabrina’s Treehouse Concerts’ series which has flourished since the first show in 2020 and in 2021 she toured Europe and the UK. In 2022, she added four new single releases to her discography, including “Call Me”, produced by Nigerian producer extraordinaire ‘Mystro’, played at the prestigious Bush Hall Venue in London and closed the year alongside the grammy award winning Pentatonix and other creatives across the globe on a Disney+ special called ‘Pentatonix: Around the World for the Holidays’. Her pace in 2023 is equally intense. While maintaining monthly performances at her wildly successful Tree House Concerts, Sabrina has in the first half of the year also added another two releases to her discography – “I Feel Amazing” and “Woman”, a UK tour, the return of her Wide Open Concert and made her debut at the Royal Albert Hall as an opening act for Asa – the ‘soul-full’ Nigerian-French singer, songwriter and recording artist. Sabrina continues to blaze a trail in the constant pursuit of her dreams through hard work and constant innovation to overcome hurdles and connect with her audience with no intention of slowing down anytime soon.

Jeverson

Born and reared in Grenada, Soul/Funk/Pop newcomer, Jeverson has been compared to artists ranging from James Brown to Bruno Mars, Anderson Paak to Leon Bridges and Chris Stapleton. Although firmly rooted in Soul/Funk and Pop, Jeverson’s music includes a unique blend of sonic spices… a touch of his Island roots with a pinch of Soca and a dash of Reggae. In the spring of 2020, a chance encounter in Grenada with New York City-based musician/producer, Nick Lotto, resulted in a magical collaboration leading to the releases of “Pray for Your Son,” “Move” and “Let Me Know.” A writing trip to Nashville in May 2021 offered an opportunity for Jeverson to write with Grammy award-winning writers/producers Mike Shimshack, Johnny Black, Bobby Huff and more, and the resulting work has further unlocked musical magic. His influences include artists such as Machel Montano, Patrice Roberts, Bob Marley, and Chronixx as well as mainstream pop artists like The Clark Sisters, Beyonce, Daniel Caesar and Jacob Collier and legends Otis Redding and Frank Sinatra. Known simply as Jeverson, he is based in Nashville where he has been writing and recording in preparation for his current singles “Move” and “Stupid Mad Love” in advance of his EP release in early 2022.

Tiffany

A graduate of Berklee College of Music (Contemporary Writing and Production and Music Business), Tiffany Strachan is a composer, songwriter, record producer and music business consultant. With almost a decade of experience in the music industry, Tiffany started her artist management firm, Ghost Management, the first of its kind, when she was only nineteen years old. Simultaneously, she started her production house, GHOSTWorks Productions, offering many services such as location recording, music arranging and record production. The likes of Tony and Grammy Award winners mentored her. She has extensive experience in stage management and artist liaison, having served as a member of the Berklee Stage Crew, senior sound engineer at multiple plays at Branksome Hall in Canada, and production manager for the 2022 National Carnival Queen Show. She has also worked for charitable causes, managing multiple artists for a fundraising concert, We Are the World, and assisting with production for previous Rotary Carols by Candlelight concerts. She is also Tiffany is based in her home country, Grenada. Tiffany is Managing Director at WWWIP, an intellectual property and corporate services company in Grenada and has been accepted to Loyola Law School in Los Angeles to pursue entertainment law.

Thamara 'Songbird'

Known as the ‘Songbird’ of Grenada. Thamara has been singing the age of 5 and is known for her signature voice blended with Soul, Smooth and R&B. Thamara has been singing at bars, restaurants, concerts and Music Festivals, travelling to Kazakhstan and Moscow to represent her country. With her latest EP ‘The Conversation ‘ debuting and shaking the airwaves, she is always excited to share her relatable experiences of life struggles and love lessons with the world.

Thamara has topped the Reggae charts in her country with her hit song ‘Gots To Burn’ produced by Costa Rebel from Costa Rica and captured the hearts of many with another hit song ‘Jah Battle’ which speaks on depression. She has opened for artists such as Chronix, Morgan Heritage, Ashanti, Christopher Martin, Jah Rule, Sizzla and this is just a small mentioned of the many times she has opened for some big names.

Many people who hear the Songbird describe her as passionate and exceptional writer and a vocal range that is to die for. She was also spoken highly of, by David Rodigan of BBC Radio and Many local media houses went crazy as their Songbird continued to make strides.

The Songbird knows that her purpose on this earth is to bless, uplift  inspire and rekindle hope to every listener and so she stands by these words that depict exactly how important music is to her ” Singing is like breathing and music is air”. When asked how she would describe herself, she says chosen and blessed!

Sonkia

Bio coming soon…

Khole Baldeo

Not your average Island Girl … One of Grenada’s leading female artists, Khole Bladeo, is making her mark and not letting up any time soon. Her unique fusion of pop, dancehall and soul has anyone who encounters her perform instantly captivated.

Born in Grenada to West Indian parents, music has been at the heart of Khole’s life since childhood. Passionate, mysterious, fierce and real to the core, her music teases the emotional experience of life, love and worldly encounters that we all live through and can relate to.

On the rise achieving her childhood dreams of being an international star, her mission is to continue to empower herself and inspire generations to come as she evolves and grows on this unique journey from a small island to international success.

Khloe’s musical influences span across a wide array of artiste and sounds from Lauryn Hill to Celine Dion, an eclectic mix which is definitely reflected in her sound. Being a 90s baby she was a huge fan of 990s pop music and loved all the classic girl groups like Spice Girls, TLC, Destiny’s Child and so many more.

Being from the Caribbean, Khloe draws a lot of inspiration and influence from nature, her culture and community all of which are extremely important to her.

Jay mcdonald

Jay was a past member of Spice Island Youthquake and the SGU Chorale and a current member of Crescendo Choir. He is also a member of the RKD Theatre company where he played roles in “The Nutmeg Princess”, “Ay Yai Yai Ivan,” and ” Kidnap Love.” He has gone to represent Grenada at Carifesta on two occasions to St. Kitts and Trinidad and toured with SIY to the USA, UK, Ireland and Trinidad and just last year he appeared in a Heritage Theatre Production of ” Julien Fedon”
In 2010 while living in Tobago he competed in the Bi- annual Trinidad and Tobago Music Festival where he won the Operatic Aria and Mixed Duet classes held in Trinidad. And was voted Most Outstanding Tenor of 2010.
His vocal range goes from Tenor to Baritone giving him the ability to take on pieces from opera, negro spirituals, R&B to even Reggae.
He has performed at Carols by Candlelight in 2015, 2021 and 2022. And has sang at the reception held for FIFA when the trophy passed through Grenada and at many Government functions.
He has been singing for events such as weddings, funerals and mostly private functions.

Emily Rapier

Emily Rapier is a remarkable talent in the world of music and entertainment, known for her electrifying presence on stage and her versatile skills in singing, dancing, and acting. With a captivating blend of Neo-soul, Funk & Jazz, she leaves a lasting impression wherever she performs.

Emily’s journey into the world of performance began with her love for dance at a tender age. She explored the intricacies of movement. As she perfected her dance skills, she discovered a newfound love for the harmonious world of music. Her passion for soulful melodies and infectious grooves quickly became apparent and soon she had the privilege of sharing the stage with both regional and international artists. Her velvety, soul-stirring vocals have the power to move anyone who has the pleasure of listening.

Emily’s warm and energetic stage presence, combined with her soulful voice, captivates audiences, leaving them wanting more.

Jonathan Francis

Jonathan Francis also known as ‘Jonny’ is a 18 year old Grenadian singer/songwriter who lives at Mt.Parnassus.

He has been singing for 14 years and music is definitely his absolute passion beyond all passions. Jonathan has also made it to the stages of competitions and concerts such as Grenada’s Best Talent, Gospel Challenge and Pure Grenada Music Festival 2016-2018. He also has a keen interest in theatre arts and in a great deal of musical genres including R&B, soul, pop, folk, reggae and gospel; Music has definitely been something that has been around through his many pitfalls and triumphs and has inspired him to tell a story while singing. He aspires to make his own music that inspire others not only in his country but worldwide.

Shishonna Mc Meo Photo

Bio coming soon…

Laura Lisa

Born and raised in Grenada, West Indies, LAURA LISA is a calypso singer-songwriter whose songs send powerful messages of hope, strength and self-confidence. Laura Lisa has had both live performing and recording experience. The singer performed at multiple national concerts like opening for Buju Banton and competing in numerous Calypso, Groovy and Soca (Power) Monarch competitions in Grenada. Laura Lisa has also made her way through the local reggae circuit, being the lead singer of the local reggae band, D-Unit. With them, she has opened multiple “Best of the Best” reggae shows held each year locally. Laura Lisa has released records “Hero”, which was included on Xpert Productions’ recent album “Strange Powers”, and others such as “Better Days”, “Judge Me”, “Ramajay” and “Awaken”, with more songs in the works. Laura Lisa, in her own right, is considered a musical gem and a symbol of feminine power in Grenada, and her music and message will do wonders to the world of music and her island.Visit www.rotarygrenada.org/bios to read more about CBC performing artists Laura Lisa Richardson

Kahmala Stephens

Bio coming soon…

Richardo Keens-Douglas

Richardo Keens-Douglas MBE is an International Award Winning Author, Playwright, Director and Producer. He has worked with leading Theatre directors from around the world and performed on some of the major stages in North America including the Apollo theatre in New York and was a member of the prestigious Stratford Shakespearean Company in Canada, working with Academy award winner Maggie Smith. He received national recognition in Canada in 1991 -94 as Host of CBC Radio’s talk show, Cloud 9.

He was also Host of the CBC TV show, Sunday Arts Entertainment for which he received a 1996 Gemini Award Nomination for Best Host in an Arts Programme. He was the Choreographer for The Children’s Theatre of Montreal for five years. He is an Award Winning Children’s Author with 13 books which has been translated into five languages. He has also composed over forty songs for the theatre. His very famous story, The Nutmeg Princess, Grenada’s first fairy-tale, was adapted into a musical for the stage and won The DORA Award, Canada’s Highest Theatre Award, for Most Outstanding Musical in 1999. In 2016, The Nutmeg Princess made the top 100 books of all time for children in Canada by parents of Canada.

In 1993 he was invited to a private dinner aboard the Royal Britannia Yacht with the late Princess Diana and Prince Charles where he did an impromptu performance of his popular story, Mama God. In 2002, he made history as the TV Host of the Caribbean version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire. In 2003, Mr. Keens-Douglas was inducted into the Caribbean Hall of Fame for Excellence in Theatre. In 2005 he won the Prestigious Golden Oak Award in Canada for his book, Tales from the Isle of Spice.

In 2007 His Book Freedom Child of the Sea was chosen the official book for children in celebrating 200 years of the Abolition of slavery. That same year he was honoured by the Queen with an MBE for Arts and Culture. He was responsible for reviving and reintroducing the Moko Jumbie Character into Grenada when he displayed them in his band in 2007 winning Band of the year. He was also Honoured with the Title of Cultural Ambassador by the Government of Grenada. In 2014 he created “Mango” a Grenadian TV series for children.

He has written numerous plays, from musicals to comedy to drama – including the popular Ay Ya Yai Ivan telling the story of Hurricane Ivan, which Toured London, New York and Toronto and the drama UNCLE, the story of Sir Eric Matthew Gairy, which also toured Canada. He has written plays for the stage, radio and TV dealing with social issues such as physical abuse on women, Aids/HIV, Teenage rape and incest. He has directed and produced the Carriacou Maroon Festival, Tourism Expo, National Carnival Queens shows, Panorama shows, Di Manche Gras Shows, Kiddies Carnival, The Cultural Fiesta for independence in Grenville to name a few. His show Reflections for The 25th Anniversary of Independence is still talked about and has been showing on TV every independence for the last 15 years. He has been a major creator of Carnival, bringing theatre to the streets with his creative Mas Band and costume designs for the past 10 years, winning major prizes throughout the years.

As a proud son of the soil he has been keeping the culture and heritage alive with his gift and love of the arts with an impressive body of work both locally, regionally and internationally. When Richardo puts his stamp on something you know you are going to get a top notch, professional, classy, first rate experience.

Richard Strachan

Richard has been playing the piano since the age of four. Alongside the likes of keyboardist Eddie Bullen, he studied music and the piano for five years at Louis School of Music, with Louis Massanto, GTCL, LTCL, the composer of the National Anthem of Grenada. At the age of 12 he appeared on Barbados radio in a piano-duo with childhood friend arranger, now Dr. Nicholas Brancker. He was school pianist at the GBSS for five years, accompanying the likes of singer Harold Pysadee, and played with the school band. In the 1980s had leading roles in the Music Society’s productions of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Guys & Dolls and Oklahoma and has been the President of that Society. During his active performance period, he has been an accompanist and guest solo artiste at several charity and other performances, and has appeared on all major stages in Grenada including on the 12-ft. concert Grand at Government House from where his debut television special Ten fingers on Ivory was staged in 1982. He has been pianist at four major hotels in Grenada and in 1999 retired as chief resident pianist at the Calabash Hotel. Inspired by Valerie Steele and trained by Mary Fletcher, Richard also enjoys playing the organ and has performed on all four pipe organs in Grenada, including the Great Organ at the Scots Kirk where he is chief organist. He is the recipient of the St. Andrew’s Award for his music contribution to the Presbyterian Church. At the request of Lauren Ramdhanny MBE, GTCL, LTCL, he composed the harmonic arrangement to the folksong, I love Grenada, on the occasion of a special national performance. In recent years Richard has turned his hand to concert production for charities, and has co-produced (with Ray Smith, OBE) and directed Cultural Callaloo© featuring Paul Keens-Douglas. At the request of Swedish Honorary Consul Hugh Dolland, OBE he has also produced a recital of the Swedish Master Chorale, and co-produced (with Lauren Ramdhanny), a recital featuring internationally-acclaimed concert and recording pianist Janice Millington. He made a guest appearance on keyboards with Rumours, a Grenadian-based band that opened for Virginia Mahew at the 2001 Grenada Spice-Jazz Festival. He formed Opera Grenada and produced annually until 2011, “A Night at the Opera” to raise funds for a theatre. Through his company, Netherlands Insurance, he has been instrumental in the support of the performing arts in Grenada from big drum to ballet, from calypso to classics, from soca to opera. He served on a committee for the production of a Grenada Music Festival in 2016, and is the current executive producer of the concert for Carols by Candlelight. He is the recipient of numerous plaques and awards presented by promoters, schools and other institutions, as recognition for his contribution to the performing arts in Grenada.

Conception Dance Theatre

The Conception Dance Theatre is a dance school and performance group specialising in Acro, Ballet, Modern, and Grenadian/Caribbean Folk

In October 2007, Artistic Director , Cecilia Griffith opened Conception Dance Theatre and has worked conscientiously not only to develop herself, but also her students by creating opportunities for them to grow technically, artistically and in their personal development through performances, workshops, the inclusion of international tutors and providing teaching opportunities to its members.

Conception Dance Theatre, now celebrating its 10th year has grown to over 270 students, operating with a dance manager and a number of skilled, trained dance teachers who all share a passion for the arts. Conception provides an environment that fosters positive attitudes; discipline, respect, diligence, and self motivation in its membership. Conception’s recent achievements include, the Shashamane Rhythm and Motion Festival in Trinidad 2016, as well as performances for the National Independence Celebrations 2015,2016 &2017, The Grenada Invitational 2017, Pure Grenada Music Festival in 2016 & 2017, the 2017 Carriacou Maroon Festival and Carifesta xiii in Barbados