The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has taken a significant step towards strengthening the nation’s creative economy with the launch of its Music Production & Artist Development Department, a dedicated unit focused on nurturing local talent, elevating Antigua and Barbuda’s musical identity, and creating pathways for artists to thrive regionally and internationally.

The new department represents a long-term investment in the country’s music industry, providing emerging artists with the tools, production, mentorship, music video production and professional development needed to build sustainable careers.

Through structured programmes, participants will receive vocal coaching, songwriting support, performance training, music production and stage development, while gaining direct access to established producers, songwriters, and performers from across the Caribbean.

A key component of the initiative will be a series of songwriting workshops, masterclasses and writers’ camps designed to help artists sharpen their craft, collaborate with fellow creatives, and produce commercially competitive music. While the programme is open to all artists, it will continue to identify and cultivate new talent from communities across Antigua and Barbuda.

ABFC Chairperson Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul described the initiative as a transformational step for the country’s music industry and a key pillar of the Commission’s Orange Economy agenda.

“We believe the time has come to make a serious investment in Antigua and Barbuda’s music industry. Our artists possess immense talent, yet many have not consistently had access to the resources, mentorship, and professional development opportunities needed to reach their full potential. Through the Music Production & Artist Development Department, we are creating a structured pathway that prioritizes talent development, collaboration, and industry readiness. I am particularly encouraged by the strong support we have received from the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda, which recognizes the value of the creative industries as a driver of economic growth, youth empowerment, and national development. Their commitment gives us the confidence to pursue bold initiatives that create real opportunities for our people and position Antigua and Barbuda as a stronger force in the regional and international music landscape. This is about building a solid foundation for the next generation of artists and ensuring they have the support required to succeed locally, regionally, and internationally.” she said

Ambassador Makhoul also announced plans to establish a professional recording and production facility to further strengthen the local music ecosystem.

“The Commission, with support from Cabinet, is committed to developing a professional music studio that will give artists access to experienced producers, engineers, and songwriters. Our vision is to create an environment where Antiguan and Barbudan talent can consistently produce world-class music, refine their craft, and unlock opportunities beyond our shores. This is an investment in the future of our people, the future of our music industry, and the continued growth of Antigua and Barbuda’s Orange Economy.”

The goal is clear: create music that remains unmistakably Antiguan and Barbudan while resonating with audiences beyond the nation’s shores.

According to Devon “ChippyG” Joseph Jr., Lead of Music Production & Artist Development, the department’s mission is centered on preparing artists for long-term success.

“Our priority is the artist. We want to help young Antiguan and Barbudan talent develop their skills, build confidence, and gain the exposure needed to grow professionally. An important part of that process is creating opportunities for them to collaborate with established artists and industry professionals throughout the region. The Sugar Mill Riddim is one example of that vision in action, but it is only the beginning. We have additional collaborations already in development, all aimed at helping our artists expand their reach, build meaningful industry connections, and compete on a global stage.”

Regional collaboration will remain a cornerstone of the department’s strategy, with established projects such as Black Pineapple Riddim marking an important chapter in the ongoing evolution of the Antiguan sound. It is a bold, intentional exploration of the identity, rhythm, and spirit of Antigua and Barbuda through music.

Drawing on legendary Antiguan musical influences such as Burning Flames and blending them with contemporary Caribbean and R&B sonic textures, the riddim captures both tradition and innovation in a single, powerful production.

At its core, the riddim seeks to answer a defining question within the growing Antiguan soca movement: “What is the Antiguan sound?” The result is a dynamic musical experience that fuses the unmistakable “kang-kang” energy, reminiscent of the iconic “Debble Riddim” cowbell, with lush synths, modern grooves, and authentic Caribbean storytelling.

The Sugar Mill Riddim is a collaborative project featuring Antiguan artists Zafema, Tian Winter, and Young Lyrics, produced by Devon “ChippyG” Joseph Jr. in partnership with Trinidadian producer Kitwana Israel of Advokit Productions. The project also features internationally acclaimed soca artist Patrice Roberts, underscoring the type of cross-Caribbean partnerships the Commission intends to foster.

As part of the next phase of the project, the Sugar Mill Riddim will be re-released as part of an expanded regional promotional campaign, supported by new music videos, targeted radio promotion in Trinidad and Tobago, and strategic marketing initiatives to increase visibility for Antiguan and Barbudan artists across the Caribbean market.

The launch of the Music Production & Artist Development Department marks a new chapter for Antigua and Barbuda’s music industry, one centred on cultivating talent, strengthening cultural identity, and creating lasting opportunities for artists to thrive at home and abroad.