WITH?THE?LOCAL music industry showing signs of anaemic growth, the recent financial injection into the Ric hard Stoute Teen Talent contest of a $400 000 trust fund by Government has been lauded by Ronnie Morris, one of Barbados’ younger musical entrepreneurs.
Speaking after a presentation of sponsorship recently by McEnearney Quality Motors Inc. (MQI) and Consolidated Finance to next year’s Barbados Music Awards, Morris said: “It was fantastic that the trust went to Mr Stoute.
“As far as I recall, it is the most major contribution from Government to a private entity in the entertainment arena in history. All of us came through the Teen Talent competition . . . .”
Morris said the trust fund would benefit hundreds of young people going through the contest.
“I know that [Stoute] has expressed interest in expanding. McEnearney has been a sponsor this year; Timeless and Gold Coast Records Inc. have also been sponsors. Every year we have the winners of the Teen Talent competition perform at the Music Awards,” Morris said.
“To have tangible financial support like that was essential. The next step would be to invest in the music business sector with executives, managers, label and studios.”
With the trust established, Morris gave a few ideas as to where he would like to see the contest go.
“I would also love to see the winner tour and it would be good if the Barbados Tourism Authority involves the winner of the competition in its foreign promotions. It would be developmental and something to which young people would aspire.” (JS)
