A new chapter is unfolding for musicians in St. Kitts and Nevis with the official launch of the St. Kitts Band Association — a collaborative initiative aimed at strengthening the local music industry, amplifying local talent, and preserving the Federation’s unique band culture.
Bringing together a diverse mix of bands and musicians from across genres, the association was formed with seven founding members: Small Axe Band, Grand Masters, Upset Squad, New Vibes International, Kollision Band, ASAP Band, and Xcess Band. The association is open to other groups meeting the minimum requirement of at least two years of recording activity.
Keithley Guishard of Xcess Band confirmed the association’s open-door policy, noting the aim is to create a unified space where bands can collaborate and represent their collective interests. “You can’t just come today, record today, and decide to be a member. It’s about commitment and longevity,” he said.
The idea to form the association stemmed from a longstanding need for structure and mutual support. Grand Masters manager Wingrove Hicks explained that over the years, representatives of various bands often discussed ideas and challenges, but without a common forum, many initiatives failed to take root. The formation of the St. Kitts Band Association is a response to this gap, offering a shared platform to move ideas forward and advocate for musicians’ interests.
Gregory Warner of Small Axe Band highlighted the broader cultural mission of the group, noting that St. Kitts and Nevis is among the few Caribbean territories still actively supporting a vibrant live band scene — a cultural tradition now diminishing elsewhere. “We have something here that many other islands are losing — a rich band culture. This association helps us preserve that,” he said.
Shervin White of Kollision Band echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of cultural identity. “Live bands are still central to our Carnival and national events, and now other countries are turning to St. Kitts for bands to enrich their own celebrations. We must protect what we have,” he said.
The association’s objectives are ambitious: expanding live performance opportunities, improving access to training and equipment, and promoting local talent regionally and internationally. Brandon Cranstoun of ASAP Band outlined plans for community outreach, youth education programmes, fundraising, and skills development for emerging musicians. “We’re starting from the grassroots. We want the community to understand the passion behind band culture,” he said.
Membership benefits will include professional development, networking, mentorship, partnerships, and increased visibility through structured events. Gregory “Mr. Mention” Hobson of New Vibes Band International reported ongoing efforts to secure government support, particularly from the Ministry of the Creative Economy. While a formal meeting is still pending, he expressed hope for future collaboration, especially in securing funding and helping bands craft a recognisable cultural sound and brand.
The association is also calling for support from public and private entities to help fuel its vision and ensure sustainability. As it takes shape, the association’s leaders are committed to inclusivity, ensuring that all bands — established or emerging — have a voice in shaping the future of the industry.
“The inception of a band association is something long overdue,” said Gavin Charles of Upset Squad. “Too many decisions have been made without the input of bands. We need a structure that represents all of us.”
With the formation of the St. Kitts Band Association, the rhythm of collaboration and cultural pride continues to beat stronger — with a shared promise that the sound of progress keeps playing.
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