A Vincentian living in New York made a memorable debut at Bliss Love Fest singing in Garifuna on Oct. 13, where she was introduced by legendary Vincentian-born artiste Judy Boucher.
Boucher, the highlight of the night, warmly welcomed Ganigi to the stage, proudly announcing, “Ganigi will be performing one of my songs in Garifuna.”
Ganigi, whose given name is Evelyn Hoyte, was born in Fancy, a Garifuna village on the northern top of St. Vincent.
A passionate singer, Ganigi is dedicated to preserving and promoting the endangered Garifuna culture through her music.
While deeply connected to her Garifuna roots, Ganigi’s music transcends language barriers as she performs in both Garifuna and English.
Through her songs, Ganigi bridges cultures and inspires listeners to connect with her rich heritage.
Ganigi’s mission is to use her voice to entertain, educate and uplift.
At the show in New York, Ganigi performed the Garifuna version of Boucher’s hit song, “Can’t Be With You Tonight”.
The song’s Garifuna title, “Gufurandabana”, means “Please Understand Me”.
It was translated into Garifuna by James Lovell, a Garifuna artist, from the original version by the late Felix Lawrence Da Silva.
Ganigi’s performance was a tribute to Boucher and a bold step in her mission to preserve the endangered Garifuna language.
Her connection to her ancestral heritage was clear as she has dedicated her music to reviving the Garifuna language, which is at risk of extinction.
With Boucher’s support, Ganigi hopes to share this unique part of her culture with the world.
Ganigi’s performance captivated the audience, bridging the rich legacy of Garifuna music and reggae, and spreading awareness of the importance of preserving her ancestral language.
What a great voice! A Garifuna song-bird in on of the tradition of the Great Judy Boucher.
Vinci Vin — a Garifuna brother