When Steel Talks hooks Grammy Superstar up with Steel Orchestra
Super Star Captures Scenes for Upcoming Release
The Carnival II: Memoirs of an Immigrant
New York - Internationally-renowned recording superstar Wyclef Jean returned to his Brooklyn roots as he broke bread, sang, danced, counseled, hung out and worked with New York music powerhouse Pantonic Steel Orchestra.
Wyclef Jean in
Pantonic’s yard with their president Glenda
Gamory in front of portrait of late master arranger
and music Clive Bradley
Pantonic Steel Orchestra, in the middle of feverishly preparing for the achievement of winning another coveted New York steelband music panorama title, opened their home/panyard to the always progressive and socially-conscious world personality, Wyclef Jean. The Grammy award-winning artist/producer who is in the midst of preparing for his latest soon-to-be-released musical venture, utilized Pantonic’s musical and visual aura, charisma and global magnetism to capture scenes for the promotion of his project labeled The Carnival II: Memoirs of an Immigrant.
Pantonic, a group accustomed to seeing “stars” in their midst and unphased by their presence, was clearly appreciative of Wyclef’s earthiness, genuine respect and interest in Pantonic Steel Orchestra, their music, the steelpan instrument, their struggle for survival and maintenance of musical excellence. Mr. Jean showed a keen knowledge and sensitivity as he discussed the commitment, genius and attitude these Brooklyn young people bring to the steelband music arena, while a video crew present at the shoot documented the proceedings.
Wyclef Jean doing his thing for the cameras to the beat of Pantonic
Indeed, it was interesting to watch many of the Pantonic musicians stroll into the yard directly from a hard day of work or a full day of classes - unaware of or initially oblivious to Mr. Jean’s presence - to begin another five to six hours of practice on their 2007 tune of choice “Band From Space” - arranged by Keith Roberts. Pantonic is legendary for their intense and somewhat spirited/spiritual practice sessions during panorama season, that will go into the early hours of the morning - giving musicians just enough time to rest for a few hours, change and head out to work or class - only to being the process all over again come sundown.
Wyclef Jean rapping
with Pantonic
members
Wyclef particularly took time to encourage, recognize and talk to some members of this orchestra, which is always 100-players strong by the week before panorama. No subject was too trivial, or member too small, as he interacted and conversed with players on varied subjects from recordings to life issues.
Ironically, it was surely not lost on Wyclef and his crew that Pantonic is a band of ‘immigrants’ whose members and their children hail from all over the world, who have successfully come together with a goal and purpose. Atop the walls and gate of the Pantonic panyard, are various flags representing a kind of mini ‘United Nations.’ Many different countries are represented, among them - St. Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica and the US. Pantonic, who celebrates their tenth anniversary this year has won five championships in the last seven years.
Wyclef Jean playing pan
There is no doubt that Wyclef Jean, already a steelband music lover, is now a ‘Pantonic for Life.’
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