Patrice Gets Candid In First Performance Since Ricardo Drue’s Death
“When something is not for you God does take it away totally…”
This from Soca diva Patrice Roberts during her set at Soka In Moka, on Monday night. This was her first performance since the passing of her fiancé Ricardo Drue, who died suddenly in December.
Patrice hit the stage in what one patron described as her “Renaissance outfit” and delivered an energetic performance from start to finish.
The exuberant crowd was treated to a mix of Patrice’ new and old hits. Everyone was pleasantly surprised when Aaron “Voice” St Louis joined her on stage to perform their 2024 collab, Carnival Day.
Despite the energy created by her vast catalogue of music, it was her utterings on stage that stood out for many.
Patrice has been very open about her struggles with mental health through the 2024 release, Anxiety. In the lead up to one of her performances of that song, she showed even more vulnerability by commenting on what seemed to be her relationship with Ricardo Drue.
“I’m a person, whatever I want to do in this lifetime I go hard for it,” Patrice said.
“Once something is not for you God does take it away totally. Sometimes we question things in life, we question, it hurt but God know best. I believe that God has something greater for me. You see my heart, it sincere and you guys see right through me. I love you guys and I thank you for supporting me because Jah knows I was suffering in silence…”
The “Look Meh Friend” singer commented further on her relationship with the Antiguan singer, saying she gave him everything.
“I’m ok, its tough. I lost my loved one but that nothing that Father God aint going to put, I lost one, I’m going to get one. Father knows whats best, right now I just want to say rest in peace to the person that I loved. Allyuh, I give this man everything that I have, everything in me, but Father God have a next plan. You see today 2024, I’m going to live, live the happiest life I’m going to live…” she said.
Despite the anguish of losing her fiancé, Patrice declared “I’m single and ready to mingle…”
The crowd erupted when she said “I’m single and my name is Sweet P.”
Her comments stunned those present. While many could be seen with obvious reactions of shock, some appeared to be rendered speechless while many others could be heard shouting support for their “Queen of Soca.”
Now that the dust has settled on the brow-raising performance, reactions appear to be split. Scores of fans and well wishers have taken to social media to praise Patrice for “reclaiming her power” and “finding her voice.”
“What a testimony! Her truth is her truth! Let donkeys bray, only she knows her pain,” Risanne posted.
Theresa commented “Who feels it knows it Ms Patsy Stay Strong for you are strength of a woman. Blessings to you and your princess Lily. HAPPY PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR… LOVE IN THE HOUSE!”
Several others encouraged the artiste to dust herself and keep going, saying that “God has something better in store.”
“Patrice, almighty God got you. Your God removed your obstacles you fly high to achieve your goals,” one woman posted.
Meanwhile, many others are questioning the timing of Patrice’ claims and are criticizing the perceived lack of respect.
“The man ain’t even buried yet and she here saying she single and ready to mingle. Ent she was going to marry him? Live your life but you have to respect the dead same time,” one man told YCG. “You could imagine how he mother and children will feel to hear that?”
One woman accused the artiste of mixed messaging.
“The day he died she was on radio talking about how amazing he was and how in love she was so to hear her now hinting that the relationship wasn’t what they led us to believe it was, is just crazy to me. I wish Patrice nothing but the best but for me personally, she didn’t have to say some of those things. I am not saying she should’ve not spoken about it but maybe with a therapist? Talking your business like that in a fete just screams bitter woman to me and to think all this is the same day they announce the man funeral details too. I’m all for women upliftment but I don’t get this. Then again, maybe it’s not for me to get.”
On Tuesday, Patrice posted a picture of her and Drue with a caption that stated that she drew strength to perform from his presence which she felt on stage.
“Hey babe, last night was so difficult but I pushed through for you, for our little girl. I felt your presence on stage with me and that gave me courage. You’d always remind me I’m a big girl now, right? Lol… so I’ll keep performing and finding joy and solace on stage. We miss you so much, but I find comfort in knowing that God knows best and I will one day see you again. Love you always and forever…”
On Monday, Drue’s mother, Nicola Barriteau issued a statement announcing funeral details.
“There are no words at this time to express the overwhelming love and support given as the family continues to process and come to terms with the passing of our beloved son Ricardo Robert Barriteau Drue. We are thankful for the respect shown during this extremely difficult time.
Whilst we all wish the hands of time could be rewound, the harshest reality of life is unfortunately death and as much as the family would give anything to have him with us in the physical, the ultimate acknowledgement is the Almighty is in full control.”
A service will be held in celebration of the life of Ricardo Drue at the Holy Family Cathedral, Michael’s Mount in St John’s, Antigua on January 9.
It’s scheduled to begin at 1pm.
Sktrini
Still in shock 🫢