Barbados today
Alternative music offerings are unfolding and steel pan music is on a growth path. It is more accessible and the change is led by technological and individual creativity.
Not so long ago, a band consisted of a rhythm section, guitars with vocals and a horn section was the first choice of entertainment for most social affairs in the Barbadian and Caribbean Diaspora community. At times, during the carnival season, or for specific cultural events, the steel pan was added as part of the band. The DJ was the second or most economical choice.
Today, steel pan music – played by individuals – has become increasingly popular and economically attractive. Specifically, for some Barbadian affairs, patrons are now welcomed by solo pan players [with] electronically wired pans and computerised soundtracks.
Ronald Headley, formerly of Payne’s Bay, St James, is part of that growth and provides music for a variety of events with his steel pan outfit called Caribbean Pan.
Speaking after a recent event, Headley explained that his new direction came unexpectedly when he sought to solve a problem. Headley – a guitarist – involved in the music industry for about forty years, was a member of the Triple X, Hi – Tek and Technic Band. During his career, those bands backed famous Barbadian artistes like Tony Grazette, Tony Thompson and Joseph Niles, among others. As part owner of the Hi – Tek band, he also organized and assisted with gigs.
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