Written by Christine “Chrycee” Charlemagne from Saint Lucia
It all but consumed him. Day and night, sweet melodies replayed in his head. Over and over. Everything he saw, touched, felt and heard, evoked within him the need to craft his thoughts and feelings into beautiful lyrical masterpieces. His fingers twitched to get it all out on paper. His lips buzzed to sing out loud the songs which radiated from his heart. As his need to create sweet music grew—to a point where it seemed to become even more important than the job he then held, and everything else in his life for that matter!—it became undoubtedly clear to Bomani that music was his true calling.
The Saint Vincent & the Grenadines born songwriter, performer and recording artiste describes himself an optimist and an adventurer who loves life and music to no end. He recalls this his love-affair with music began during his secondary school days, songwriting and singing. Upon his graduation he made a concerted effort to become aligned with musicians, composers and other songwriters in his home island.
Bomani describes his music and sound as “an eclectic Afro Caribbean Calypso/Ragga Soca blend with hints of broader music styles” which have influenced him on his journey. Truly his music reflects the essence of what it’s like to be a Caribbean native.
He draws his inspiration from the wonderful world around him—the universe, God, his environment, friends, family, the stranger he unexpectedly runs into, and even his dreams. Through his music he seeks to share a message of love and happiness for and among people.
Among his numerous music experiences to date, the Vincentian artiste says one of his most amazing moments centered around the release of his very first Album, “Deep” and the subsequent international tour. “Deep,” featured several of his earlier hits which led him to perform the world over. He adds his capturing of the St Vincent & the Grenadines 2004 Road March title and the OECS Soca Monarch title in St Lucia in 2005 as highly memorable accomplishments. A number of Bomani’s songs have also been signed to giant Caribbean music label, VP Records.
He credits his successes to date to his dedication and willingness to work hard, a formidable team and support system and an ability to remain focused on music creation and promotion even in difficult times. And there certainly have been difficult times. As a professional artiste, Bomani notes that one of his biggest challenges in establishing his music career has been a struggle for adequate radio airplay throughout the year in St Vincent. This shortfall, he says, makes it difficult for the general public to become familiar with new material. Related to his challenge is lack of performance platforms for sustainable growth and development.
Yet Bomani and his team refuse to be limited by those challenges; so they are constantly seeking alternative means of music promotion and networking, while exploring performance opportunities regionally and internationally.
With his determined spirit, soulful voice and infectious melodies we have absolutely no doubt that Bomani will achieve his ultimate goal; his music transcending time and generations, touching people across the world; inspiring aspiring artistes as those before him inspired him.
In fact if you listen to his music releases from over the years it’ll become evident to you that he’s already achieving his mission.
BOMANI Bites
ECCO: When you’re not doing music, what are you doing?
Bomani: When I’m not doing music you can find me chillin’ with friends and family at home, watching movies, or at the beach, or at any of several of the hangout spots in SVG having a few drinks and eating great food.
ECCO: What are your passions besides music?
Bomani: Visual arts, helping with the development of young people and cricket.
ECCO: What makes you laugh?
Bomani: Great stand-up comedy and political and social satire make me laugh and good jokes generally.
ECCO: Name one thing about yourself that most people won’t know
Bomani: Most people probably won’t know that I’m a picky eater.
ECCO: Who are you music mentors? Music influences?
Bomani: There have been several individuals who have mentored me over the years here in SVG, Mr Lennox Bowman, Mr Franklyn Edwards who is also my manager. I’ve had great conversations with legendary Vincentian calypsonians like Winston Soso and Becket that I consider as great council. My musical influences over the years have been wide enough to include artistes from several genres such as Peter Tosh, Berres Hammond, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Gladys Knights, Whitney Houston, Luthor Vandross, Seal, David Rudder, the original Burning Flames, Krossfyah, Winston Soso and Becket.
Stay connected with Bomani on his Musical Journey! Follow him on Social Media
Facebook ………………. Bomani Charles (www.facebook.com/bomani.charles)
YouTube ……………….. BOMANI SONGS (www.youtube.com/channel/UCT-Fvd0kvluKyVMBi8v0lAg)
Soundcloud …………… BomaniMusic (www.soundcloud.com/BomaniMusic)
Instagram ………………. @bomani_live
Twitter ………………….. @bomani300
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