Members of the Burning Flames Band at Cabinet on Wednesday. Photo Credit: Wayne Mariette
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to honor the iconic soca band Burning Flames with one of its most prestigious national awards. All four founding members will be nominated for Knighthood during the Independence celebrations this November.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced during this week’s Cabinet session, describing the group as cultural pioneers whose music transformed soca and placed Antigua and Barbuda firmly on the global stage.
Clarence “Oungku” Edwards, Toriano “Onyan” Edwards, David “Bubb-I” Edwards, and Rone “Foxx” Watkins, known affectionately as the “Fantastic Four”, were also honoured at the meeting with diplomatic passports to mark their 40th anniversary in the music industry.
The Prime Minister commended Burning Flames for their unique fusion of calypso, reggae, and modern Caribbean rhythms, noting that their creativity, resilience, and international success have inspired generations.
Cabinet members echoed his remarks, reflecting on the group’s early days of homemade instruments and free community concerts, and highlighting their enduring role in uniting and uplifting the nation.
From homemade instruments to international stages, their journey is incredible. Proud of their recognition!
Burning Flames changed the sound of Caribbean music. This is a celebration not just of them, but of our culture.
They are most deserving of all the recognition, accolades and rewards. Their music is still hot to this day and makes this old woman bus a( now stiff back) whine every time. Congratulations 🎊
Our music icons getting the recognition they deserve. Generations have danced to their music this is history!
They receiving the nomination at Independence or they are being nominated for knighthood ahead of the celebration.
I’m confused