Despite the challenges posed by and losses suffered because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it forced many who operate within the creative realm to dig deeper and ultimately get better at their respective crafts.

That’s according to Skinny Fabulous. Responding to questions posed by journalists during a press conference prior to his performance on the Saint Kitts Music Festival stage, the Vincentian songwriter and artiste said in his opinion, the pandemic didn’t hold musicians and other creatives back. Instead, he believes it forced them to delve deeper, tap into their creative reserves and be innovative.

“It’s the irony of it all, it was unfortunate. People lost a lot of things, people lose their lives, but I think for most of us as creatives, it taught us to value everything we do have while we have it. It forced us to be creative and innovative in how we market and how we still get to create and maintain our relevance. And so I think we all came out of the pandemic a little bit stronger, a little bit more creative and a little bit more adaptive to whatever may come in the future. I don\’t really see the pandemic as something that kept us back…”

Skinny was one of several regional Soca artistes to hit the stage during night one of the three-day festival. He was joined by:

Kes The Band

Patrice Roberts,

Ricardo Drue

Preedy

Nailah Blackman

Saint Kitts and Nevis was well represented on the first night with stellar performances by homegrown artistes such as: Mr Bagnall, Nicha B, Stadics, Akaiiusweet, Kollision Band, Small Axe Band, Grand Masters Band and Ny Vybes Band.

Dexta Daps was the lone Jamaican to perform on Thursday night.

Commenting on the 2023 cast, Skinny said SKMF organisers truly outdid themselves this time around.

“It is my second time at the festival and I must say, this time you guys have outdone yourselves. The last time it was a nice cast, but this time the three days that I\’m seeing on the flyer, all three days are going to be epic so I\’m happy to be a part of it…\”

The Saint Kitts Music Festival is ranked among the most diverse and highly anticipated musical events in the Caribbean. In addition to the music, festival-goers can enjoy dozens of fringe events and activities. This includes lunchtime concerts featuring local musicians, Caribbean beach parties, boat rides and other parties.

Plans are already afoot for the 2024 staging of the event. I strongly urge you to join the rest of us in planning for what promises to be, an experience like no other.

See you in Saint Kitts in June 2024!