Aubrey “Lacu” Samuel

Aubrey “Lacu” Samuel’s fascination with pan began at an early age. He grew up on Newgate Street, where the sight and sound of his brothers and cousins playing pan was common.

Twenty-eight years later, Aubrey “Lacu” Samuel is one of the finest panists in Antigua and indeed the Caribbean.  Lacu’s debut was with Supa Stars in I 975. He shifted to Harmonites in 1979 and was a member when the band made its prestigious visit to the Miami Super Bowl. An association with Gemonites lasted from 1980 to 1984.

Wanting to explore the pan horizon and learn more as a player, “Lacu” visited Baltimore, USA. There he spent three years, 1985-1988, playing pan with Trinidad-owned Pace Setters Steel Band. He was also afforded the opportunity to arrange for the band. His distinguished solo career began on return from Baltimore in 1988. As they say, the rest is history.

“Lacu” currently plays with the Roots Steel Band, and is a frequent collaborator, on pan, with keyboardist Rawdon Edwards. His breathtaking performances can be seen at hotels and concerts around the island, as well as, regional music festivals.

“Lacu” scored another first with HAMA Productions decision to spotlight him, performing on pan, in Antigua’s first feature film, The Sweetest Mango; and later to have him write and perform the musical score for its second film, No Seed.

The Cultural Development Division is not only pleased but also honored to have “Lacu” as a Pan Instructor, mainly with the primary schools. He also conducts one-on-one classes within the Division, readying young pan soloists to take their place in the spotlight.

Source:  In Tune With Pan magazine, publication of the Cultural Development Division - Ministry of Education, Human Development & Culture, Antigua & Barbuda, W.I.  2008