The Board of Directors and Staff of the Grenada Cultural Foundation would like to join the rest of the Cultural and Entertainment fraternity in extending sincerest condolences to the family, friends and fans of Don Charles.
The fraternity, and Grenada by extension, has lost a kind soul with
exceptional talent. From Kalypso Kastle to Moss International to the
Grenada Jazz Festival, Don’s contribution and commitment to cultural
development and the development of his country were exemplary.
The 1991 hit tune and Road March winner “Jambalasie”, will forever be a
staple on the local music scene. The song redefined the local and
regional music industry, since it was the first time a conch shell was
used in recorded music. Components of the original 1991 hit were
rehashed to produce another road march in 2004 – “Never Say Never.”
Grenadians were witnesses to Don’s magic when he played keyboards as
part of an all star band during Ajamu’s 25th anniversary celebration
show last August.
Don at the keyboards entertaining the Chinese as Grenada's then Ambassador to China, Joslyn Whiteman looks on
The musical influence of Don Charles has spanned several decades with
the Kalypso Kastle’s impact being felt between 1981 and 1987; and Moss
International as early as the 1970’s.
The story of this immense era of Grenada music will be properly written
and recorded and passed on for generations to come, an effort that
would certainly make Don proud and secure his legacy among the great
citizens of this our dear land.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Dexter Mitchell
CEO
Grenada Cultural Foundation
Images courtesy Siddiqui Sylvester
