The entertainment fraternity has given a thumbs-up to news that a 100 per cent Bajan music radio station was being planned, saying that it could generate much-needed royalties for artistes.
Entertainer and promoter Richard Stoute also said it would be a forum for artistes in various genres while musician Roger Gibbs described such a station as a “fundamental right”.
“Bajans, especially young Barbadians, should have the choice on their radio dial to hear Bajan music . . . this should be understood as a fundamental right and a cultural development must-have,” Gibbs told the DAILY NATION.
“If you know the music of your country, you are able to arrive at a better understanding and appreciation of your culture.”
Gibbs, who is also a record producer and one of the architects behind Bajan Radio International, added that it was not just about the local indigenous beat, spouge, but about royalties and returns for local artistes.
“It’s about 40 years of repertoire, much of which is rarely heard,”?he added.
“There is significant economic return to the struggling local music industry via royalties, promotional value locally and abroad to our music brand, added value to tourists seeking unique cultural experiences, and most of all significant educational value by raising Bajans’ awareness of the whole story of their musical contribution to the world.”
