Krosfyah
Encyclopedia
'Krosfyah' is a Soca
band from the Caribbean
island of Barbados
.
They are best known for their hits "Road Jam", "Pump Me Up", and "Sak Passe". Formed in 1989 by Edwin Yearwood, Krosfyah is one of the most known and successful Soca bands of the Caribbean.
The team players of Krosfyah are as follows:
1. Edwin Yearwood Lead Vocalist/ Songwriter
2. Anthony Bailey Guitarist/ Vocalist/ Songwriter
3. Khiomal Nurse Vocalist/ Songwriter
4. Mario Burnett Bassist
5. Neil Burnett Drummer
6. Antonio Rudder Keyboardist
7. Corey Jordan Keyboardist
8. Ronald Taylor Sound Engineer
9. Aynsley Greaves Monitor Engineer
10. Paul Reynolds Tour Sales Executive
11. Michael Agard Managing Director
12. Felix Forde Tour & Support Services Manager
13. Ingrid Holder P.R Manager/ Corporate Secretary
Soca has never been so cool! Combat boots, baggy attire, brightly colored bandanas adorning funky dreads and colored 'fros'; krosfyah epitomizes coolness. Combined with infectious melodies, high-energy performances and pulsating rhythms that speak a language only one’s hips comprehend, krosfyah has reinvented Soca as we know it.
For the past fifteen years, krosfyah has been touring the world inducing fans across three continents into a soca frenzy! Yet despite the group’s sophomore CD’s (Ultimate Party – Pump Me Up) sales (totaling over 300,000 units to date without the assistance of a major label), the guys remain humble. As Edwin Yearwood, principal songwriter for krosfyah indicates, “We are just a bunch of island guys who love to play music.” And play music is exactly what they do. Whether entertaining 20 or 20,000, krosfyah always delivers an energized performance!
The evolution of krosfyah from playing covers for tourists on Barbados hotel circuit to touring the world and performing their original music for dignitaries like Nelson Mandela
occurred over a span of seven years. While few critics ever doubted the potential of krosfyah, most never imagined this level of success, in such a short space of time.
In 1994, krosfyah released their debut album, “Ultimate Party”, which propelled the group from obscurity to the most popular soca band on the island of Barbados and won them the coveted ”Band of the Year” title.
In 1995, the group released “Ultimate Party-Pump Me Up”. Not only did this album produce the hit song, “Pump Me Up”, which became the national anthem for the youth of Barbados but it traveled across the seas to Canada
where it achieved the coveted Gold status in January 1997. As you read, it continues to receive excellent sales and reviews throughout the Caribbean, South America
, the USA
and Europe
, while still finding its way into new global markets. The album bestowed unprecedented honors upon its lead vocalist Edwin Yearwood: “Party Monarch”, “Road Monarch Champion” and “Calypso King” in 1995. The triple-crown win by one artiste would mark the first and only time to date, in the history of Barbados’ Annual Crop Over Festival, that such a feat has ever been accomplished.
In 1996, the success of krosfyah’s third album, “Aim High”, led to more awards. The hits Wet Me and Jammin Practice gained even more fans for the already highly successful band. The hit song, “Wet Me”, dominated the music chart in the neighboring island of Trinidad and Tobago
.
1997
Krosfyah's first release in 1997 Fyah Riddums included the mega-hit Road Block, resulting in another "Party Monarch" title for Edwin Yearwood. Edwin's songwriting genius shines brightest in the hit Highway Robbery, a lyrical masterpiece that shows that soca is more than just "wukup" party music and Redemption of Me a powerful song that causes one to reflect. Krosfyah ended 1997 with their Christmas CD Fyahside Christmas with favorites such as “My Sweet Lord”, “No Christmas Without You”, “Jah Son”, “End of the Rope” and “Celebration” great music that you'll want to listen to all year long.
1998
During 1998, krosfyah surfaced from the studio with a new album, “Hot Zone” and a new co-lead vocalist, Ray Armstrong. “Hot Zone”, like all of its predecessors, takes us on a musical cruise with lots of high energy soca mixed with just the right amount of reggae and blues influences to add spice 'Hot Zone' produced hit songs such as “Oil Pumping”, “Calor” & “Appetite” which enabled the band to tour across the United States
and Europe
performing at music showcases and festivals.
1999
As if not to be stopped, krosfyah released yet another album “krosfyah.com” in 1999 with hits like “Agony” (which saw Edwin Yearwood crowned 1999 Party Monarch for the third time)
Krosfyah celebrated their 10th anniversary with the release of Krosfyah.com. The CD features some of Anthony Bailey's best work to date. Ray Armstrong's vocals are top-notch and Edwin is brilliant as usual. With a string of outstanding tracks including One More Time, Raga Beenie, Sexy Body, Forkin, Be-sa-me and Teaser, just to name a few, this is a must have CD.
Krosfyah performed some of the 20th century's best music and the next millennium looks equally promising.
2000
The year 2000 turned out to be no different. Krosfyah marked their return to their homeland’s cultural festival – Crop Over -with another remarkable feat. Lead singer with the band, Mr. Edwin Yearwood, won his fourth Party Monarch title with the track ‘Fiah Fiah’ which is featured on his debut solo album “Influenced: The Good and Badd In Me”. This album was released alongside krosfyah’s own “The Best of krosfyah vol. 1”. This compilation of hits from the past and including two new tracks, continues to demonstrate krosfyah’s musical ingenuity.
2001
The return to Crop Over for krosfyah has indeed proven to be one of their best decisions ever. Following the trend of the past years, krosfyah released yet another pulsating, award winning album. “Kool Under Fire”, the name of the album, is a fitting title for this ever-dynamic band. The success of this album includes the Barbados 2001 Road March tune, 'Sak Pasé', which was sung by Edwin and the effervescent Khiomal Nurse, who also joined the band that same year. "Emancipation" (another skilfully penned and appropriately titled masterpiece which reflects on our freedom, and some spanish flavour in "Plenty Amor". These songs will certainly add to the continuation of the group's success.
2002
One would agree that in everything there will be good and there will be bad. However, the success comes when you realize amidst it all you can have the situation “Lock Down”. krosfyah’s 2002 album is certainly a testimony of will power to rise to the top. The album features the Barbados Tune of the Crop third place song “Road Jam”, along with fast pace hits, the likes of “Fire Man” and “Ride It” and cool titles “Satisfaction” and “Ling Tong”.
Lead guitarist Anthony Bailey, debuted his solo album entitled “Unheard Message” that same year, a 20 track CD that must be heard. This album contains a list of thought provoking and soul searching lyrics to be heard from the first track 'Dear Lord' followed by 'Call Me' a mellow yet groovy song about the meaning of friendship and living a life with integrity. 'Waiting on Love' and 'Guilty' comes later on the CD filled with the essence and message of pure love straight from the heart. 'Cell block 3' a popular hit from Krosfyah album can also be heard on “Unheard Message” .
2003
Krosfyah’s versatility continues to be evident even in their album titles. “Enchanted”, simple but thought-provoking is the title of the 2003 album. The flava is cool, refreshing and totally krosfyah (still down-to-earth and for their fans and supporters). One song “Family” was specifically written for their faithful supporters, especially those who frequent the message board on krosfyah’s website. Other songs include “French Kiss” featuring a French flavored melody and a ragga
-soca number called “Sorry”.
The Bajan band Krosfyah was featured in the Jamaica Gleaner on April 4th 2003 - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
KROSFYAH, THE soca band out of Barbados, made Mas Camp on Oxford Road, St. Andrew the place to be. The group, known for the seamless fusion of reggae and soca, played for an hour and kept the party massive happy and dancing.
At about 12:20 a.m. Krosfyah took the stage with an instrumental medley of their hits. For exactly one hour the band of Edwin Yearwood, Anthony Bailey, Sherwin King, Elvis Edwards, Khiomal Nurse, Sharon Darlington, Morris Cassell and Corey Jordan played their songs and did renditions of other popular soca hits.
The band's first big hit was the now soca staple Pump Me Up, however, they started their set with Sexy Body. They then moved into the new music from Trinidad's 2003 Carnival like Front, Tempted to Touch, Rough Wine and Don't Wanna Know If Ah Getting Horn. They then performed their hits Sak Passe and Pump Me Up.
However, the Jamaican contingent really appreciated them when they started to sing Eric Donaldson's 1978 National Popular Song winner This is the Land of My Birth. The crowd sang along.
Krosfyah closed their set by asking everybody to put the peace sign in the air and they sang the Negro spiritual We Shall Overcome.
2004
“Zero Tolerance”, that’s the 2004 album title, which clearly speaks out against, music piracy, drugs and violence. This was definitely the stance which the band and Mr Edwin Yearwood took all the way to the Party Monarch Finals, of which Edwin won for the 5th time, with a song entitled “Invasion”, one of the many popular tunes off the album. With other hits such as “Strong Back” and “Pressure” by Khiomal, Keep Rolling It” and the sweet melody of “Sugarcane”, which placed 2nd in the People’s Monarch Final. This album is yet another classic example of pure musicianship.
For their 15th Anniversary, December 31, 2004, the band brought out yet another classic masterpiece, “The Best of Krosfyah Vol. 2”, and to add the icing to the cake, Lead Vocalist and Songwriter of the band, Mr Edwin Yearwood, recently signed a 6 Album deal with VP Records - Waistline Music Division, being the first Soca act to be signed to this label. With the increased presence of Soca in the International marketplace and the genre to be entered into the Grammy Awards, the best is yet to come from this music maestro and his band.
2005
The year 2005 brought forth yet another Musical Masterpiece entitled “Timeless”. As the hands of time roll by, the music just gets better with age, with a solid mix of guest artistes such as Bunji Garlin
on the All aboard Remix, Friendz featuring Lil Rick and the 1980s Remake of Rock in Ethiopia featuring Adonijah
, this album is sure to fill your musical pallate for many years to come, signature tunes “Head Gone”, “Yardie Graduate” and “Sweetest Thing” nominated for Best Ragga Soca of the Year 2005 and one of the most requested for the season, and WON, are just a few of the “Timeless” memoirs on this album.
2006
There’s nothing like “Sweet Sixteen”, and that’s where krosfyah’s at for 2006, as they celebrate their 16th Anniversary in grand style, with a 14 track album entitled “Ever Blazing”, and winning “Band of the Year” at the Barbados Music Awards with Mega Hits – “Welcome to the Band”, “We Ready to Go”, the ladies tune – “Agua”, “No Wall Flowers”, “Hot Spot”, “Sinking Sand”, “She’s Got to have It” and “Nothing Sweeter”, which are just a sample of the fyah that will melt your ears, as they once again ignite your soul with a EverBlazing Fyah. You’ve just got to have this Album, because there’s nothing Sweeter. Tony Bailey also won an award Best Ragga Soca Single Male at the first annual Barbados Music Awards for the band with his ragga soca song, “Sweetest Thing.”
2007
A year sure does go by fast, blazing on the heels of a very successful 2006 Album, Barbados’ #1 Band is all “Fire Proofed” for 2007, winning “Band of the Year” & Edwin – “Male Entertainer of the Year”. Soca Soul tunes, such as “It Feels like”, “All my Life”, “It’s taking Over”, “Got this Feeling”, “Higher” and “Jah is your Light” are just a few to be added to the Halls of Soca. Fiery hits tell the tales of “Bashment Bacchanal”, saying Gimme some More, cause I’ve “Got this Feeling” and that’s “Where I Wanna Be”. It’s Soca or Die for this band celebrating 18 years December 31, 2007.
2008
“The Journey” continues as this Extraordinary band nips closer to its 20th Anniversary. Similarly to 1995 when 3 crowns were won, 2008 proved to be no different, with Khiomal winning Party Monarch with Unleash the Beast and that he did, whilst Edwin captured The Road March Tune with “Handle ya Bizniz” & The People’s Monarch with “Nah Missin Me”, which has a signature krosfyah sound of a Pump me Up and was a huge favourite at home and abroad. The Band won “Band of the Year” & Khiomal – “Male Entertainer of the Year”. Speak about a well rounded Album, you will listen to each tune from beginning to end and ask where’s the rest? You may be caught “In a Jam” with a “Good Gal”, “Like So” and “We Chippin” “Till Morning” with “My Best Friend”, so “Start de Madness” and “Handle ya Bizniz”, cause “That’s My Carnival” and it “Nah Missin Me”. Cheenatonah everyone!
2009
“Kings of the Groove” certainly is a fitting title, with another host of Tunes that will go down in history. Edwin took the Road March & People’s Monarch titles once again with the uptempo hit tune “In de Middle ah de Road”, and the Band won “Band of the Year”, “Band of the Decade”, whilst Edwin took “Male Entertainer of the Year” & “Best Uptempo Soca Single - Male” at the 5th Annual Barbados Music Awards 2010. The “Carnival on my Mind”, “Whole night Long”, “Trouble”, “She’s Going down”, among others, allows you to understand why they are called “Kings of the Groove”.
The 20th anniversary celebrations started on December 31, 2009 at the exact time that the band played their first gig 20 years ago. The band presented the "Kings of The Groove" fete at Party Stand with Power by Four where patrons partied to 20yrs of popular hits.
While it is true, that krosfyah are “just a bunch of islanders who love to play music”, krosfyah’s players (Edwin Yearwood, Anthony Bailey, Khiomal Nurse, Corey Jordan, Neil Burnett, Antonio Rudder and Mario Burnett) each add, a unique ingredient to their Magical Music.
Prime Minister of Barbados Commends Krosfyah On Its 20th Anniversary By Cathy Lashley
Published: December 4, 2009
Prime Minister David Thompson with members of Krosfyah, following a press briefing yesterday at Ilaro Court to announce plans to mark the band's 20th anniversary celebrations. The Prime Minister is the group's patron.
One of Barbados' most popular musical groups has been lauded for reaching its 20th anniversary.
In congratulating the band on reaching this milestone, Prime Minister David Thompson, described it "as a tremendous achievement" for these young men and attributed their success to tenacity, determination, a search for excellence and their unique music.
He observed that "they worked their way up in a very tight and difficult market, in the Caribbean and in Barbados," in particular, and, therefore, for all of those reasons they should be congratulated and complimented.
Mr. Thompson pointed out that the band "needed to be held up and supported" by the public and he expressed satisfaction that the anniversary coincided with the launch of Government's Cultural Industries Policy.
The Prime Minister advised the group to remember the persons who had been instrumental in their success over the two decades.
In his response, lead singer, Edwin Yearwood, thanked the Prime Minister for his continued support. He said: "We plan to have a very busy year, and are planning for Krosfyah to grow from strength to strength, as we continue to represent Barbados."
Mr. Yearwood also disclosed that the group would be introducing a new logo called, "Krosfyah, Kings of the Groove" and said it was chosen as a result of their service throughout the Caribbean.
Events to celebrate the band's 20th anniversary include a church service at St. Barnabas Church on December 6, and a 20th anniversary show on December 31.
The group also plans to adopt a school, stage a free concert, launch a revamped website, complete an anniversary CD and a documentary showing the band's history.
2010
'THE Experience' speaks for itself with the title alone. This entire album flooded the airwaves for the crop over season and beyond with hits 'Come up to me', 'Sugarr', 'Neighbor' done with Edwin Yearwood and Patrice Roberts from Trinidad which gained favor with the masses. "No Cheating" by Tony 'Rebel' Bailey was a hit definitely with male and females. 'On this day' also by Bailey can be found on The Experience, a groovy Soca jam that puts you in the mood to chip down the road. The popular up tempo track "Chrissenin" earned Edwin second place at The Soca Royale Party Monarch held at Bushy Park
, St. Philip, second place for Road March on Kadooment day, as well as Video of the Year Male at The Barbados Music Awards 2k11. "Till De Sunrise"/'We Ain't had enough' speaks for itself also with the title, because party goers just couldn't get enough this season. Khiomal Nurse mash up the fetes with 'Doan Tell ne Nuttin" and Tony Bailey stirred things up with 'Bid Old Truck' another up tempo track that is the essence of Krosfyah! The Krosfyah crew is definitely 'Feeling Blessed' and looks forward to continue 'THE Experience' year after year.
'The Experience' of Krosfyah continue to blaze the airwaves, "Chrissening" the fetes "Till the Sunrise" cause we ain't had enough, encouraging the masses to "Come up to me" because the sweet soca makes me want to "Wine on You"and party with "No Cheating" because we are "Not Giving Up"so people "Doan Tell me Nuttin" when the masses "Lose Dem Mind" as we party as "Neighbors' that love "Sugarr" to give us energy to jump behind the "Big Old Truck" "Feeling Blessed" "On this Day" and every day that Krosfyah have a fete!
"The band Krosfyah was honored by the Ministry of Culture and the National Cultural Foundation
on Sunday night, 3 August 2010 08:35 pm at Kensington Oval
for their 20-year contribution to Barbadian music."
In what was, but yet another significant point in a year of celebration, the band headlined this year’s Digicel Red Hot Cohobblopot performing – in 40 minutes – many of the past and present hits. Afterwards, Minister of Community Development and Culture Steve Blackett, flanked by NCF Chairman Kenneth Knight and CEO Dr. Donna Hunte-Cox, presented the band an award as “Musical Icons” for their contribution to the growth of local culture.
Krosfyah founding members Felix Forde and Mike Agard said the gesture was a touching one.
“It was a touching one on the NCF’s behalf; it’s great to see the Ministry of Culture get behind us,” said Agard.
Noting that the band has already performed in St. Vincent, Antigua, St marten, St. Croix and Barbados with celebration concerts, Forde said the band would be performing a major celebratory concert in Toronto
for September. Another is scheduled for England
.
“The performances have been going well and tonight was another celebration.”
'Krosfyah 20th Anniversary Special Edition' is available for purchase on http://www.iribbeantunes.com : This three (3) Disc Album contains a vast number of brilliant Soca hits done over the years by the band. Tracks such as 'Head Gone', Haunting Melody' along with 'Redemption of me' and 'Voice in my Head' are available on Disc 1. Many still remember 'Bend over Gal', 'Sweetest Thing' and 'Facts of Life' done by Tony 'Rebel' Bailey, Disc 2 is the one for you to reminisce on those vibes. 'Dushi' and 'Oil Pumping' is also available giving you that desire to get to the next Krosfyah fete. Disc 3 brings 'Weekend', Nah missin Me', 'Strong Back' and 'Jockin ya Waist' a popular track that displays the unique song and beautiful harmonies of Edwin Yearwood and Tony 'Rebel' Bailey.
Michael Agard stated that the band is looking forward to speeding their sound as far afield as possible.
Other plans for Krosfyah’s 20th anniversary have seen them adopting local primary school Half Moon Fort Primary School.
Krosfyah celebrated twenty-one years on Dec 31 2010 at The Party Stand with Power by Four and presented "4 Ever 21" to a vast crowd who had a great time celebrating with old and new hits. The band rendered different genres of music including Bruno Mars
- The Way you are which was done by Khiomal Nurse and Jah Cure
's popular hit Unconditional Love done by Tony 'Rebel' Bailey. To show appreciation to the fans and patrons, a draw was done for a new fully loaded Chevy Spark valued at $50,000.00.
Founding member of leading local band Krosfyah, Tony Rebel Bailey says that because of the global economic crisis the group have had to put measures in place to survive. Speaking to Starcom Network
while promoting "4 Ever 21" to celebrate 21years of existence, Mr. Bailey says that being smart business people have helped them to stay afloat.
Krosfyah featured in the Nation News By ANESTA HENRY | Fri, December 31, 2010
THE CLOCK STOPS at twelve tonight.
When the world ushers in another year, krosfyah will be standing still. Standing still on 21.
The popular band will be throwing its 4ever21 Old Year’s Night party tonight, marking 21 years of making music. The band’s manager Michael Agard told WE Magazine about the big bash, which he promises will rock and transform the Party Stand.
When asked how and why the name was chosen for the concert, which krosfyah will be presenting with PowerX4, Agard simply stated that the band that had delivered a number of popular and successful hits was “now ready to grow and party”.
“At 21 years you are now ready to do a lot of things because you are now ready to enjoy life. Some people feel that at 21 you can leave home, you can drink as you please, you can party how and when you feel like. But we are telling those young people out there that even though you are now ready to party, do it in a careful and positive way,” he said.
Though the band has held its annual Old Year’s Night concert at the Party Stand for the past three years, with last year having the largest turnout, this year will be one with a big difference.
“We wanted to do something different but still keep something from the past two years. This year we decided to give away a brand new car worth $50 000. But we are still keeping our balloon drop where people can win prizes.
“We are also going to be extending to accommodate the large number of people we are expecting, and we are also decorating it . . . . We are looking to transform the Party Stand. I want to invite everybody out to come and have a good time,” Agard said.
Now a eight-member band, krosfyah has sung its way through the ups and down, resignations and additions. But according to Agard, “we have survived them all while continuing to press on and looking up”.
“We started out as a five-member band on stage. We still have four of those members but the band has still continued to keep pressing on. What we have is a beautiful relationship, where even though we have our differences we are still together.
“David [Burnett] left and Phil [Phillips] left but the band is still here. Phil did his part; he took us from the hotel stages to the club stages and into a touring band. When Phil left ten years ago we decided to keep pressing on and that made us a tighter unit. But he felt that there was a need for him to resign and that was history.”
The manager said that the band, which has always looked for different markets to tour, has given a taste of its soca music to the countries in the Caribbean, North America and South America.
He revealed that the band, which intends to be 4ever21, was currently working with officials in Africa, Las Vegas and Dubai to get the opportunity to give the people in those countries a bit of what 21-year-old krosfyah is made of.
2011
Krosfyah started their 21st year celebrating with fans in the Caribbean countries of Guyana, Trinidad and St. Lucia before the anticipated One on One Krosfyah Album started to blaze for Crop Over 2011. Once the party started, the band performed at a number of Crop Over events and ventured out to Texas to show some love and a "Good Time" to the masses there! Upon their return to Barbados, the climax began!
D General stayed true to his name as he "Cova D Road" for Crop Over 2k11. First was the Sweet Soca Royale Competition where Edwin placed third with Good Time. Second was the Party Monarch Competition where Edwin Yearwood placed third with Cova D Road. Third stop was Kadooment Day on the road with Contact Band and The General won his 6th Road March title with Cova D Road yet again.
The band was flooded with different generations of revelers showing that they are "Never" to old or young to have loads of fun! The Krosfyah family from Barbados and the Region were "Back Again" to "Poze" with Khiomal and "Wine Back" with Barry Chandler and their favorite band. Tony Rebel Bailey encouraged the masses to "Come By Me" where eva Krosfyah was blazing in a fete. We just knew that Edwin would be "Doin Dis" yet another year because "Dis Vibe" that the fyah was blazing this year brought back beautiful memories because of the old Krosfyah flava and touch from previous years.
The talented members of Krosfyah showed their versatility as Tony Rebel Bailey showcased his unique style with the track "Lovin You Only You" Rebel penned the popular tune Coming Down by TC and Peter Ram which placed 6th in the Sweet Soca Royale Competition as well as for Artist such as Keisha Christian, Kirk Brown and Teejay of Strategy The Band, Hold On by Alison Hinds, Doin Dis by Khiomal and Wineback by Barry Chandler! Excellent Song writing skills yet again by Tony Bailey! His mastery guitar skills could be heard on a vast number of Soca tracks by numerous Artist during the years and this year is no exception. Talent beyond in the Fyah Camp!
Keyboard player Corey Jordan did an amazing job with the Bumpa Riddim that featured a number of artist including Come By Me written and sang by Tony Bailey and the popular Can't be Over by Biggie Irie which placed second in the Sweet Soca Royale Competition. A Perfect Climax to the "Quick" Crop Over Season that would be remembered by all. So "Please Don't" stop because "Simon Says" the party continues in your home where you can continue to enjoy the sweet soca vibz of "ONE on ONE" with the Fyah Crew! Our Brand new released Album just for you the FFF of Krosfyah. We give thanks for you ~ Fans, Family and Friends! Blessings and Guidance to you all.
krosfyah Achievements and Awards
* 1993 The Nation Entertainment Awards Most Improved Act
* 1994 The Nation Entertainment Awards Band of the Year
* 1994 Arts Support Alliance Band of the Year 1994
* 1995 The Nation Entertainment Awards Band of the Year
* 1995 Barbados Road March - Third Place “Crank It”
* 1995 National Cultural Foundation Best Community Band 1995
* 1996 Caribbean Music Awards Album of the Year ’95 – “Pump Me Up”
* 1996 Boston Caribbean Music Awards Best International Group Award
* 1996 People’s Choice Award Edging out Shaggy, Buju Banton and SuperBlue)
* 1996 Edwin received the keys to the City of Boston from the Mayor’s Office
* 1996 Barbados Malibu Congaline Festival Road March “Yardie”
* 1996 Barbados Crop Over Festival Band of the Year
* 1996 K103 Radio, Montreal, Canada Champion “Battle of the Bands”
* Street Sounds R&B program - Pump Me Up, the first Soca song to have ever entered the competition, beating Prince’s new
release 30 - 4.)
* 1996 Reggae Soca Awards - Miami Best Soca Group 1996
* 1996 The Ultimate Party CD turns GOLD. (January)
* 1997 Music Manufacturing Services Certified Gold Record - Canada
* 1997 Trinidad Music Awards - Best Song” All Aboard” written by Edwin
Yearwood for the band Atlantik.
* 1997 Boston Caribbean Music Awards Best International Group 1997
* 1997 Caribbean Music Awards Best Group 1997
* 1997 Best recording of the year “Ultimate Party - Pump Me Up”.
* 1997 Sunshine Music Awards - N.Y. Best Recording By a Group
* 1999 World Beat Music Awards For Their Contribution to Soca Music
* 2001 Barbados Crop Over Festival Road March “Sak Pasé”
* 2002 Barbados Crop Over Festival 3rd Place Road March Song “Road Jam”
* 2003 Trinidad Carnival Hottest Overall Soca Brass Band
* 2006 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2006 13th Reggae Soca Music Awards Best Soca Group & Album of the Year - May
* 2006 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2006 Barbados Music Awards Raga Soca of the year - Tony Bailey
* 2007 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2008 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year & Best Soca Single
* 2008 Rd March, Party & People’s Monarch Handle ya Bizniz, Unleash & Nah Missin Me
* 2009 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2009 Rd March & People’s Monarch In de Middle ah de Road
* 2010 Soca Royale Party Monarch 2nd place Edwin Yearwood "Chrissenin"
* 2010 Road March 2nd place Edwin Yearwood "Chrissenin"
* 2010 Notable Award from Ministry of Culture & NCF 20yrs contribution to Barbadian soca music
* 2010 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2010 Barbados Music Awards Music Video Of The Year (Male) - Edwin Yearwood "Chrissenin"
* 2011 Sweet Soca Royale 3rd place Edwin Yearwood "Good Time"
* 2011 Soca Royale Party Monarch 3rd place Edwin Yearwood "Cova D Road"
* 2011 Road March 1st place Edwin Yearwood "Cova D Road"
Some krosfyah Notable Performances
* 1995 St. Kitts Music Festival
* 1996 Cartegena Music Festival - Columbia (Hailed as one of the best bands of entire festival)
* 1996 Cohobblopot - Barbados
* 1996 Stadtgarten at POPKOM Music Festival - Germany
* 1996 Museumsuferfest - Frankfurt, Germany
* 1996 Miami Carnival
* 1996 Air Jamaica U.S. Promotional Tour
* 1996 Trinidad Carnival
* 1997 Suriname Tour
* 1997 Radio City Music Hall
* 1997 Bahamas Musik Festival
* 1997 BTA UK Tour
* 1997 Curacao / Aruba / Suriname Tour
* 1997 Reggae Riddums Festival - New Orleans
* 1997 Central Park Summerstage - New York
* 1997 The Onyx - MIDEM Latin America & Caribbean Music Market – Miami
* 1997 Montserrat - free Christmas Concert
* 1997 Trinidad Carnival
* 1997 Sinbad Music Festival – Aruba
* 1998 Bermuda Tour
* 1998 Germany & Amsterdam Tour
* 1998 Bonaire Tour
* 1998 Caricom Heads of State Concert – St. Lucia
* 1998 Trinidad Carnival
* 1999 Colleges across the USA
* 1999 New Orleans Jazz Festival
* 1999 Montreal Jazz Festival
* 1999 Washington Carnival
* 1999 African Festival, Washington, DC
* 1999 Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, VA
* 1999 Afrobean, San Francisco, CA
* 1999 Afrikadey Festival (Dundey), Calgary
* 1999 World Beat Music Festival, Trinidad
* 1999 Pirates Week Festival
* 1999 Spirit of Unity Tour
* 1999 WOMEX Trade Fair, Berlin, Germany
* 1999 Trinidad Carnival
* 1999 Trinidad Hilton
* 2000 University of Central Florida
* 2000 Clayton State College
* 2000 International Sunfest
* 2000 Boat Ride, New York
* 2000 Crop Over 2000, Barbados
* 2000 Carifesta Fascination Cruise Ship
* 2000 Trinidad Carnival
* 2000 St. Vincent Pre-Election Celebration
* 2000 Jamaica Bacchanal Village
* 2000 Congaline Festival, Barbados
* 2000 Island In the Park with Air Jamaica
* 2000 Belgium & Netherlands
* 2001 Crop Over Barbados
* 2001 Miami Carnival
* 2001 World Creole Music Festival, Dominica
* 2001 Montreal, Quebec
* 2001 St. Philip’s Carnival, Barbados
* 2001 Trinidad Carnival
* 2001 Jamaica Carnival
* 2001 Calypso Spectakula Barbados
* 2002 Crop Over Barbados
* 2002 Trinidad Carnival
* 2002 Cayman Is Quincentennial Celebrations
* 2003 Crop Over Barbados
* 2003 Brooklyn Museum
* 2003 St. Lucia Wet Fete
* 2003 St. Croix
* 2003 Tortola
* 2003 St. Thomas
* 2004 Bonaire
* 2004 Trinidad Carnival
* 2004 Labour Day
* 2004 Tortola/ Bonaire/ St. Croix/St. Thomas
* 2004 Guadelope/ St. Vincent/ Antigua/Dominica
* 2004 England/ Holland/ UK
* 2005 Barbados - Crop Over Festival
* 2006 Unite the Nations - Toronto
* 2006 Barbados - Crop Over Festival
* 2006 N.Y - Labour Day Weekend
* 2006 Hartford – Sept. 8
* 2006 Guyana – Oct. 28
* 2006 Suriname – Nov. 4
* 2007 Bonaire/ Curacao Carnival- Jan
* 2007 Calgary – March 3
* 2007 London/Holland June 16/17
* 2008 Crop Over – Barbados
* 2009 St. Martin Carnival
* 2009 Crop Over - Barbados
* 2009 Virginia Festival
* 2010 St. Maarten
* 2010 St. Thomas/St. Croix
* 2010 St. Vincent
* 2010 Grenada
* 2010 Suriname
* 2010 Dominica Creole Festival
* 2010 England
* 2010 New York
* 2010 Calgary, Canada
* 2010 Ten to Ten Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Wahdadah Morning Brek Out Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 CBC Socoholics Last Fete Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Brewster's Road (24) Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Soca on D Hill Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Wadadah Back to school Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Krosfyah BDF Fete Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Soca Gold Plantation Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Grand Performance Cohobblopot Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Barbados Crop Over Kadooment Day with Power by 4
* 2010 4 Ever 21 Party Stand Dec 31
* 2011 Guyana
* 2011 Trinidad
* 2011 St. Lucia
* 2011 Barbados Crop Over - Kensington Party Stand ~ Start De Party, Hott 95.3FM and Power X 4
* 2011 St. Peter Festival ~ Speighstown
* 2011 Houston, Texas
* 2011 Outrageous In Red Barbados Crop Over
* 2011 Wadadah Back to School
* 2011 Soca Titans
* 2011 Glow with Power by 4
* 2011 Ten to Ten
* 2011 Cohobblopot
* 2011 Kadooment Day on the road with Contact Band
* 2011 Tortola
* 2011 England (Nottinghill Carnival)
* 2011 New York (KesFyah Fete ~ Bajan Soca Splash)
* 2011 St Thomas VI
* 2011 St Croix
* 2011 Bonaire
Soca music
Soca is a style of music from Trinidad and Tobago. Soca is a musical development of traditional Trinidadian calypso, through loans from the 1960s onwards from predominantly black popular music....
band from the Caribbean
Caribbean
The Caribbean is a crescent-shaped group of islands more than 2,000 miles long separating the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, to the west and south, from the Atlantic Ocean, to the east and north...
island of Barbados
Barbados
Barbados is an island country in the Lesser Antilles. It is in length and as much as in width, amounting to . It is situated in the western area of the North Atlantic and 100 kilometres east of the Windward Islands and the Caribbean Sea; therein, it is about east of the islands of Saint...
.
They are best known for their hits "Road Jam", "Pump Me Up", and "Sak Passe". Formed in 1989 by Edwin Yearwood, Krosfyah is one of the most known and successful Soca bands of the Caribbean.
The team players of Krosfyah are as follows:
1. Edwin Yearwood Lead Vocalist/ Songwriter
2. Anthony Bailey Guitarist/ Vocalist/ Songwriter
3. Khiomal Nurse Vocalist/ Songwriter
4. Mario Burnett Bassist
5. Neil Burnett Drummer
6. Antonio Rudder Keyboardist
7. Corey Jordan Keyboardist
8. Ronald Taylor Sound Engineer
9. Aynsley Greaves Monitor Engineer
10. Paul Reynolds Tour Sales Executive
11. Michael Agard Managing Director
12. Felix Forde Tour & Support Services Manager
13. Ingrid Holder P.R Manager/ Corporate Secretary
Soca has never been so cool! Combat boots, baggy attire, brightly colored bandanas adorning funky dreads and colored 'fros'; krosfyah epitomizes coolness. Combined with infectious melodies, high-energy performances and pulsating rhythms that speak a language only one’s hips comprehend, krosfyah has reinvented Soca as we know it.
For the past fifteen years, krosfyah has been touring the world inducing fans across three continents into a soca frenzy! Yet despite the group’s sophomore CD’s (Ultimate Party – Pump Me Up) sales (totaling over 300,000 units to date without the assistance of a major label), the guys remain humble. As Edwin Yearwood, principal songwriter for krosfyah indicates, “We are just a bunch of island guys who love to play music.” And play music is exactly what they do. Whether entertaining 20 or 20,000, krosfyah always delivers an energized performance!
The evolution of krosfyah from playing covers for tourists on Barbados hotel circuit to touring the world and performing their original music for dignitaries like Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, and was the first South African president to be elected in a fully representative democratic election. Before his presidency, Mandela was an anti-apartheid activist, and the leader of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing...
occurred over a span of seven years. While few critics ever doubted the potential of krosfyah, most never imagined this level of success, in such a short space of time.
In 1994, krosfyah released their debut album, “Ultimate Party”, which propelled the group from obscurity to the most popular soca band on the island of Barbados and won them the coveted ”Band of the Year” title.
In 1995, the group released “Ultimate Party-Pump Me Up”. Not only did this album produce the hit song, “Pump Me Up”, which became the national anthem for the youth of Barbados but it traveled across the seas to Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
where it achieved the coveted Gold status in January 1997. As you read, it continues to receive excellent sales and reviews throughout the Caribbean, South America
South America
South America is a continent situated in the Western Hemisphere, mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, with a relatively small portion in the Northern Hemisphere. The continent is also considered a subcontinent of the Americas. It is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean and on the north and east...
, the USA
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
and Europe
Europe
Europe is, by convention, one of the world's seven continents. Comprising the westernmost peninsula of Eurasia, Europe is generally 'divided' from Asia to its east by the watershed divides of the Ural and Caucasus Mountains, the Ural River, the Caspian and Black Seas, and the waterways connecting...
, while still finding its way into new global markets. The album bestowed unprecedented honors upon its lead vocalist Edwin Yearwood: “Party Monarch”, “Road Monarch Champion” and “Calypso King” in 1995. The triple-crown win by one artiste would mark the first and only time to date, in the history of Barbados’ Annual Crop Over Festival, that such a feat has ever been accomplished.
In 1996, the success of krosfyah’s third album, “Aim High”, led to more awards. The hits Wet Me and Jammin Practice gained even more fans for the already highly successful band. The hit song, “Wet Me”, dominated the music chart in the neighboring island of Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago officially the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is an archipelagic state in the southern Caribbean, lying just off the coast of northeastern Venezuela and south of Grenada in the Lesser Antilles...
.
1997
Krosfyah's first release in 1997 Fyah Riddums included the mega-hit Road Block, resulting in another "Party Monarch" title for Edwin Yearwood. Edwin's songwriting genius shines brightest in the hit Highway Robbery, a lyrical masterpiece that shows that soca is more than just "wukup" party music and Redemption of Me a powerful song that causes one to reflect. Krosfyah ended 1997 with their Christmas CD Fyahside Christmas with favorites such as “My Sweet Lord”, “No Christmas Without You”, “Jah Son”, “End of the Rope” and “Celebration” great music that you'll want to listen to all year long.
1998
During 1998, krosfyah surfaced from the studio with a new album, “Hot Zone” and a new co-lead vocalist, Ray Armstrong. “Hot Zone”, like all of its predecessors, takes us on a musical cruise with lots of high energy soca mixed with just the right amount of reggae and blues influences to add spice 'Hot Zone' produced hit songs such as “Oil Pumping”, “Calor” & “Appetite” which enabled the band to tour across the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
and Europe
Europe
Europe is, by convention, one of the world's seven continents. Comprising the westernmost peninsula of Eurasia, Europe is generally 'divided' from Asia to its east by the watershed divides of the Ural and Caucasus Mountains, the Ural River, the Caspian and Black Seas, and the waterways connecting...
performing at music showcases and festivals.
1999
As if not to be stopped, krosfyah released yet another album “krosfyah.com” in 1999 with hits like “Agony” (which saw Edwin Yearwood crowned 1999 Party Monarch for the third time)
Krosfyah celebrated their 10th anniversary with the release of Krosfyah.com. The CD features some of Anthony Bailey's best work to date. Ray Armstrong's vocals are top-notch and Edwin is brilliant as usual. With a string of outstanding tracks including One More Time, Raga Beenie, Sexy Body, Forkin, Be-sa-me and Teaser, just to name a few, this is a must have CD.
Krosfyah performed some of the 20th century's best music and the next millennium looks equally promising.
2000
The year 2000 turned out to be no different. Krosfyah marked their return to their homeland’s cultural festival – Crop Over -with another remarkable feat. Lead singer with the band, Mr. Edwin Yearwood, won his fourth Party Monarch title with the track ‘Fiah Fiah’ which is featured on his debut solo album “Influenced: The Good and Badd In Me”. This album was released alongside krosfyah’s own “The Best of krosfyah vol. 1”. This compilation of hits from the past and including two new tracks, continues to demonstrate krosfyah’s musical ingenuity.
2001
The return to Crop Over for krosfyah has indeed proven to be one of their best decisions ever. Following the trend of the past years, krosfyah released yet another pulsating, award winning album. “Kool Under Fire”, the name of the album, is a fitting title for this ever-dynamic band. The success of this album includes the Barbados 2001 Road March tune, 'Sak Pasé', which was sung by Edwin and the effervescent Khiomal Nurse, who also joined the band that same year. "Emancipation" (another skilfully penned and appropriately titled masterpiece which reflects on our freedom, and some spanish flavour in "Plenty Amor". These songs will certainly add to the continuation of the group's success.
2002
One would agree that in everything there will be good and there will be bad. However, the success comes when you realize amidst it all you can have the situation “Lock Down”. krosfyah’s 2002 album is certainly a testimony of will power to rise to the top. The album features the Barbados Tune of the Crop third place song “Road Jam”, along with fast pace hits, the likes of “Fire Man” and “Ride It” and cool titles “Satisfaction” and “Ling Tong”.
Lead guitarist Anthony Bailey, debuted his solo album entitled “Unheard Message” that same year, a 20 track CD that must be heard. This album contains a list of thought provoking and soul searching lyrics to be heard from the first track 'Dear Lord' followed by 'Call Me' a mellow yet groovy song about the meaning of friendship and living a life with integrity. 'Waiting on Love' and 'Guilty' comes later on the CD filled with the essence and message of pure love straight from the heart. 'Cell block 3' a popular hit from Krosfyah album can also be heard on “Unheard Message” .
2003
Krosfyah’s versatility continues to be evident even in their album titles. “Enchanted”, simple but thought-provoking is the title of the 2003 album. The flava is cool, refreshing and totally krosfyah (still down-to-earth and for their fans and supporters). One song “Family” was specifically written for their faithful supporters, especially those who frequent the message board on krosfyah’s website. Other songs include “French Kiss” featuring a French flavored melody and a ragga
Ragga
-Origins:Ragga originated in Jamaica during the 1980s, at the same time that electronic dance music's popularity was increasing globally. One of the reasons for ragga's swift propagation is that it is generally easier and less expensive to produce than reggae performed on traditional musical...
-soca number called “Sorry”.
The Bajan band Krosfyah was featured in the Jamaica Gleaner on April 4th 2003 - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
KROSFYAH, THE soca band out of Barbados, made Mas Camp on Oxford Road, St. Andrew the place to be. The group, known for the seamless fusion of reggae and soca, played for an hour and kept the party massive happy and dancing.
At about 12:20 a.m. Krosfyah took the stage with an instrumental medley of their hits. For exactly one hour the band of Edwin Yearwood, Anthony Bailey, Sherwin King, Elvis Edwards, Khiomal Nurse, Sharon Darlington, Morris Cassell and Corey Jordan played their songs and did renditions of other popular soca hits.
The band's first big hit was the now soca staple Pump Me Up, however, they started their set with Sexy Body. They then moved into the new music from Trinidad's 2003 Carnival like Front, Tempted to Touch, Rough Wine and Don't Wanna Know If Ah Getting Horn. They then performed their hits Sak Passe and Pump Me Up.
However, the Jamaican contingent really appreciated them when they started to sing Eric Donaldson's 1978 National Popular Song winner This is the Land of My Birth. The crowd sang along.
Krosfyah closed their set by asking everybody to put the peace sign in the air and they sang the Negro spiritual We Shall Overcome.
2004
“Zero Tolerance”, that’s the 2004 album title, which clearly speaks out against, music piracy, drugs and violence. This was definitely the stance which the band and Mr Edwin Yearwood took all the way to the Party Monarch Finals, of which Edwin won for the 5th time, with a song entitled “Invasion”, one of the many popular tunes off the album. With other hits such as “Strong Back” and “Pressure” by Khiomal, Keep Rolling It” and the sweet melody of “Sugarcane”, which placed 2nd in the People’s Monarch Final. This album is yet another classic example of pure musicianship.
For their 15th Anniversary, December 31, 2004, the band brought out yet another classic masterpiece, “The Best of Krosfyah Vol. 2”, and to add the icing to the cake, Lead Vocalist and Songwriter of the band, Mr Edwin Yearwood, recently signed a 6 Album deal with VP Records - Waistline Music Division, being the first Soca act to be signed to this label. With the increased presence of Soca in the International marketplace and the genre to be entered into the Grammy Awards, the best is yet to come from this music maestro and his band.
2005
The year 2005 brought forth yet another Musical Masterpiece entitled “Timeless”. As the hands of time roll by, the music just gets better with age, with a solid mix of guest artistes such as Bunji Garlin
Bunji Garlin
Bunji Garlin July 14, 1978 is a Reggae Soca artist from Trinidad and Tobago. His real name is Ian Alvarez. He is of saint Lucian and Venezuelan descent. He married fellow Soca artist Fay-Ann Lyons on December 23, 2006, daughter of legendary Soca singer Superblue...
on the All aboard Remix, Friendz featuring Lil Rick and the 1980s Remake of Rock in Ethiopia featuring Adonijah
Adonijah
Adonijah was the fourth son of King David according to the book of Samuel , which is contained in the Bible.-Life:After the death of his elder brothers Amnon and Absalom, he became heir-apparent to the throne, but Solomon, a younger brother, was preferred to him. Adonijah, however, when his father...
, this album is sure to fill your musical pallate for many years to come, signature tunes “Head Gone”, “Yardie Graduate” and “Sweetest Thing” nominated for Best Ragga Soca of the Year 2005 and one of the most requested for the season, and WON, are just a few of the “Timeless” memoirs on this album.
2006
There’s nothing like “Sweet Sixteen”, and that’s where krosfyah’s at for 2006, as they celebrate their 16th Anniversary in grand style, with a 14 track album entitled “Ever Blazing”, and winning “Band of the Year” at the Barbados Music Awards with Mega Hits – “Welcome to the Band”, “We Ready to Go”, the ladies tune – “Agua”, “No Wall Flowers”, “Hot Spot”, “Sinking Sand”, “She’s Got to have It” and “Nothing Sweeter”, which are just a sample of the fyah that will melt your ears, as they once again ignite your soul with a EverBlazing Fyah. You’ve just got to have this Album, because there’s nothing Sweeter. Tony Bailey also won an award Best Ragga Soca Single Male at the first annual Barbados Music Awards for the band with his ragga soca song, “Sweetest Thing.”
2007
A year sure does go by fast, blazing on the heels of a very successful 2006 Album, Barbados’ #1 Band is all “Fire Proofed” for 2007, winning “Band of the Year” & Edwin – “Male Entertainer of the Year”. Soca Soul tunes, such as “It Feels like”, “All my Life”, “It’s taking Over”, “Got this Feeling”, “Higher” and “Jah is your Light” are just a few to be added to the Halls of Soca. Fiery hits tell the tales of “Bashment Bacchanal”, saying Gimme some More, cause I’ve “Got this Feeling” and that’s “Where I Wanna Be”. It’s Soca or Die for this band celebrating 18 years December 31, 2007.
2008
“The Journey” continues as this Extraordinary band nips closer to its 20th Anniversary. Similarly to 1995 when 3 crowns were won, 2008 proved to be no different, with Khiomal winning Party Monarch with Unleash the Beast and that he did, whilst Edwin captured The Road March Tune with “Handle ya Bizniz” & The People’s Monarch with “Nah Missin Me”, which has a signature krosfyah sound of a Pump me Up and was a huge favourite at home and abroad. The Band won “Band of the Year” & Khiomal – “Male Entertainer of the Year”. Speak about a well rounded Album, you will listen to each tune from beginning to end and ask where’s the rest? You may be caught “In a Jam” with a “Good Gal”, “Like So” and “We Chippin” “Till Morning” with “My Best Friend”, so “Start de Madness” and “Handle ya Bizniz”, cause “That’s My Carnival” and it “Nah Missin Me”. Cheenatonah everyone!
2009
“Kings of the Groove” certainly is a fitting title, with another host of Tunes that will go down in history. Edwin took the Road March & People’s Monarch titles once again with the uptempo hit tune “In de Middle ah de Road”, and the Band won “Band of the Year”, “Band of the Decade”, whilst Edwin took “Male Entertainer of the Year” & “Best Uptempo Soca Single - Male” at the 5th Annual Barbados Music Awards 2010. The “Carnival on my Mind”, “Whole night Long”, “Trouble”, “She’s Going down”, among others, allows you to understand why they are called “Kings of the Groove”.
The 20th anniversary celebrations started on December 31, 2009 at the exact time that the band played their first gig 20 years ago. The band presented the "Kings of The Groove" fete at Party Stand with Power by Four where patrons partied to 20yrs of popular hits.
While it is true, that krosfyah are “just a bunch of islanders who love to play music”, krosfyah’s players (Edwin Yearwood, Anthony Bailey, Khiomal Nurse, Corey Jordan, Neil Burnett, Antonio Rudder and Mario Burnett) each add, a unique ingredient to their Magical Music.
Prime Minister of Barbados Commends Krosfyah On Its 20th Anniversary By Cathy Lashley
Published: December 4, 2009
Prime Minister David Thompson with members of Krosfyah, following a press briefing yesterday at Ilaro Court to announce plans to mark the band's 20th anniversary celebrations. The Prime Minister is the group's patron.
One of Barbados' most popular musical groups has been lauded for reaching its 20th anniversary.
In congratulating the band on reaching this milestone, Prime Minister David Thompson, described it "as a tremendous achievement" for these young men and attributed their success to tenacity, determination, a search for excellence and their unique music.
He observed that "they worked their way up in a very tight and difficult market, in the Caribbean and in Barbados," in particular, and, therefore, for all of those reasons they should be congratulated and complimented.
Mr. Thompson pointed out that the band "needed to be held up and supported" by the public and he expressed satisfaction that the anniversary coincided with the launch of Government's Cultural Industries Policy.
The Prime Minister advised the group to remember the persons who had been instrumental in their success over the two decades.
In his response, lead singer, Edwin Yearwood, thanked the Prime Minister for his continued support. He said: "We plan to have a very busy year, and are planning for Krosfyah to grow from strength to strength, as we continue to represent Barbados."
Mr. Yearwood also disclosed that the group would be introducing a new logo called, "Krosfyah, Kings of the Groove" and said it was chosen as a result of their service throughout the Caribbean.
Events to celebrate the band's 20th anniversary include a church service at St. Barnabas Church on December 6, and a 20th anniversary show on December 31.
The group also plans to adopt a school, stage a free concert, launch a revamped website, complete an anniversary CD and a documentary showing the band's history.
2010
'THE Experience' speaks for itself with the title alone. This entire album flooded the airwaves for the crop over season and beyond with hits 'Come up to me', 'Sugarr', 'Neighbor' done with Edwin Yearwood and Patrice Roberts from Trinidad which gained favor with the masses. "No Cheating" by Tony 'Rebel' Bailey was a hit definitely with male and females. 'On this day' also by Bailey can be found on The Experience, a groovy Soca jam that puts you in the mood to chip down the road. The popular up tempo track "Chrissenin" earned Edwin second place at The Soca Royale Party Monarch held at Bushy Park
Bushy Park, Barbados
Bushy Park Plantation in the Parish of St. Phillip, Barbados. It is home to the popular 'Bushy Park' race track, where race car drivers from around the world compete and showcase their skills. The race track was built by sugar cane plantation workers....
, St. Philip, second place for Road March on Kadooment day, as well as Video of the Year Male at The Barbados Music Awards 2k11. "Till De Sunrise"/'We Ain't had enough' speaks for itself also with the title, because party goers just couldn't get enough this season. Khiomal Nurse mash up the fetes with 'Doan Tell ne Nuttin" and Tony Bailey stirred things up with 'Bid Old Truck' another up tempo track that is the essence of Krosfyah! The Krosfyah crew is definitely 'Feeling Blessed' and looks forward to continue 'THE Experience' year after year.
'The Experience' of Krosfyah continue to blaze the airwaves, "Chrissening" the fetes "Till the Sunrise" cause we ain't had enough, encouraging the masses to "Come up to me" because the sweet soca makes me want to "Wine on You"and party with "No Cheating" because we are "Not Giving Up"so people "Doan Tell me Nuttin" when the masses "Lose Dem Mind" as we party as "Neighbors' that love "Sugarr" to give us energy to jump behind the "Big Old Truck" "Feeling Blessed" "On this Day" and every day that Krosfyah have a fete!
"The band Krosfyah was honored by the Ministry of Culture and the National Cultural Foundation
National Cultural Foundation
The National Cultural Foundation is a statutory body in Barbados, created by an Act of Parliament in March 1983. It organises several major local Barbadian events including Congaline, National Independence Festival of Creative Arts and the crop over festival, as well as sponsoring the Holders...
on Sunday night, 3 August 2010 08:35 pm at Kensington Oval
Kensington Oval
The Kensington Oval is located to the west of the capital-city Bridgetown on the island of Barbados. "The Oval" is one of the major sporting facilities on the island and is primarily used for cricket...
for their 20-year contribution to Barbadian music."
In what was, but yet another significant point in a year of celebration, the band headlined this year’s Digicel Red Hot Cohobblopot performing – in 40 minutes – many of the past and present hits. Afterwards, Minister of Community Development and Culture Steve Blackett, flanked by NCF Chairman Kenneth Knight and CEO Dr. Donna Hunte-Cox, presented the band an award as “Musical Icons” for their contribution to the growth of local culture.
Krosfyah founding members Felix Forde and Mike Agard said the gesture was a touching one.
“It was a touching one on the NCF’s behalf; it’s great to see the Ministry of Culture get behind us,” said Agard.
Noting that the band has already performed in St. Vincent, Antigua, St marten, St. Croix and Barbados with celebration concerts, Forde said the band would be performing a major celebratory concert in Toronto
Toronto
Toronto is the provincial capital of Ontario and the largest city in Canada. It is located in Southern Ontario on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. A relatively modern city, Toronto's history dates back to the late-18th century, when its land was first purchased by the British monarchy from...
for September. Another is scheduled for England
England
England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west; the Irish Sea is to the north west, the Celtic Sea to the south west, with the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south separating it from continental...
.
“The performances have been going well and tonight was another celebration.”
'Krosfyah 20th Anniversary Special Edition' is available for purchase on http://www.iribbeantunes.com : This three (3) Disc Album contains a vast number of brilliant Soca hits done over the years by the band. Tracks such as 'Head Gone', Haunting Melody' along with 'Redemption of me' and 'Voice in my Head' are available on Disc 1. Many still remember 'Bend over Gal', 'Sweetest Thing' and 'Facts of Life' done by Tony 'Rebel' Bailey, Disc 2 is the one for you to reminisce on those vibes. 'Dushi' and 'Oil Pumping' is also available giving you that desire to get to the next Krosfyah fete. Disc 3 brings 'Weekend', Nah missin Me', 'Strong Back' and 'Jockin ya Waist' a popular track that displays the unique song and beautiful harmonies of Edwin Yearwood and Tony 'Rebel' Bailey.
Michael Agard stated that the band is looking forward to speeding their sound as far afield as possible.
Other plans for Krosfyah’s 20th anniversary have seen them adopting local primary school Half Moon Fort Primary School.
Krosfyah celebrated twenty-one years on Dec 31 2010 at The Party Stand with Power by Four and presented "4 Ever 21" to a vast crowd who had a great time celebrating with old and new hits. The band rendered different genres of music including Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars
Peter Gene Hernandez , better known by his stage name Bruno Mars, is an Filipino-American singer-songwriter and record producer. Raised in Honolulu, Hawaii by a family of musicians, Mars began making music at a young age...
- The Way you are which was done by Khiomal Nurse and Jah Cure
Jah Cure
Jah Cure, or Iyah Cure is a Jamaican reggae musician, who was raised in Kingston. He was given the name Jah Cure by Capleton whom he met while growing up in Kingston.-Career:...
's popular hit Unconditional Love done by Tony 'Rebel' Bailey. To show appreciation to the fans and patrons, a draw was done for a new fully loaded Chevy Spark valued at $50,000.00.
Founding member of leading local band Krosfyah, Tony Rebel Bailey says that because of the global economic crisis the group have had to put measures in place to survive. Speaking to Starcom Network
Starcom Network
Starcom Network began its life as Radio Distribution Limited, with the introduction of the first broadcast station then located at Wildey, St. Michael in 1935. At that time, the company transmitted its broadcast signal using a cable network system, known as subscription radio...
while promoting "4 Ever 21" to celebrate 21years of existence, Mr. Bailey says that being smart business people have helped them to stay afloat.
Krosfyah featured in the Nation News By ANESTA HENRY | Fri, December 31, 2010
THE CLOCK STOPS at twelve tonight.
When the world ushers in another year, krosfyah will be standing still. Standing still on 21.
The popular band will be throwing its 4ever21 Old Year’s Night party tonight, marking 21 years of making music. The band’s manager Michael Agard told WE Magazine about the big bash, which he promises will rock and transform the Party Stand.
When asked how and why the name was chosen for the concert, which krosfyah will be presenting with PowerX4, Agard simply stated that the band that had delivered a number of popular and successful hits was “now ready to grow and party”.
“At 21 years you are now ready to do a lot of things because you are now ready to enjoy life. Some people feel that at 21 you can leave home, you can drink as you please, you can party how and when you feel like. But we are telling those young people out there that even though you are now ready to party, do it in a careful and positive way,” he said.
Though the band has held its annual Old Year’s Night concert at the Party Stand for the past three years, with last year having the largest turnout, this year will be one with a big difference.
“We wanted to do something different but still keep something from the past two years. This year we decided to give away a brand new car worth $50 000. But we are still keeping our balloon drop where people can win prizes.
“We are also going to be extending to accommodate the large number of people we are expecting, and we are also decorating it . . . . We are looking to transform the Party Stand. I want to invite everybody out to come and have a good time,” Agard said.
Now a eight-member band, krosfyah has sung its way through the ups and down, resignations and additions. But according to Agard, “we have survived them all while continuing to press on and looking up”.
“We started out as a five-member band on stage. We still have four of those members but the band has still continued to keep pressing on. What we have is a beautiful relationship, where even though we have our differences we are still together.
“David [Burnett] left and Phil [Phillips] left but the band is still here. Phil did his part; he took us from the hotel stages to the club stages and into a touring band. When Phil left ten years ago we decided to keep pressing on and that made us a tighter unit. But he felt that there was a need for him to resign and that was history.”
The manager said that the band, which has always looked for different markets to tour, has given a taste of its soca music to the countries in the Caribbean, North America and South America.
He revealed that the band, which intends to be 4ever21, was currently working with officials in Africa, Las Vegas and Dubai to get the opportunity to give the people in those countries a bit of what 21-year-old krosfyah is made of.
2011
Krosfyah started their 21st year celebrating with fans in the Caribbean countries of Guyana, Trinidad and St. Lucia before the anticipated One on One Krosfyah Album started to blaze for Crop Over 2011. Once the party started, the band performed at a number of Crop Over events and ventured out to Texas to show some love and a "Good Time" to the masses there! Upon their return to Barbados, the climax began!
D General stayed true to his name as he "Cova D Road" for Crop Over 2k11. First was the Sweet Soca Royale Competition where Edwin placed third with Good Time. Second was the Party Monarch Competition where Edwin Yearwood placed third with Cova D Road. Third stop was Kadooment Day on the road with Contact Band and The General won his 6th Road March title with Cova D Road yet again.
The band was flooded with different generations of revelers showing that they are "Never" to old or young to have loads of fun! The Krosfyah family from Barbados and the Region were "Back Again" to "Poze" with Khiomal and "Wine Back" with Barry Chandler and their favorite band. Tony Rebel Bailey encouraged the masses to "Come By Me" where eva Krosfyah was blazing in a fete. We just knew that Edwin would be "Doin Dis" yet another year because "Dis Vibe" that the fyah was blazing this year brought back beautiful memories because of the old Krosfyah flava and touch from previous years.
The talented members of Krosfyah showed their versatility as Tony Rebel Bailey showcased his unique style with the track "Lovin You Only You" Rebel penned the popular tune Coming Down by TC and Peter Ram which placed 6th in the Sweet Soca Royale Competition as well as for Artist such as Keisha Christian, Kirk Brown and Teejay of Strategy The Band, Hold On by Alison Hinds, Doin Dis by Khiomal and Wineback by Barry Chandler! Excellent Song writing skills yet again by Tony Bailey! His mastery guitar skills could be heard on a vast number of Soca tracks by numerous Artist during the years and this year is no exception. Talent beyond in the Fyah Camp!
Keyboard player Corey Jordan did an amazing job with the Bumpa Riddim that featured a number of artist including Come By Me written and sang by Tony Bailey and the popular Can't be Over by Biggie Irie which placed second in the Sweet Soca Royale Competition. A Perfect Climax to the "Quick" Crop Over Season that would be remembered by all. So "Please Don't" stop because "Simon Says" the party continues in your home where you can continue to enjoy the sweet soca vibz of "ONE on ONE" with the Fyah Crew! Our Brand new released Album just for you the FFF of Krosfyah. We give thanks for you ~ Fans, Family and Friends! Blessings and Guidance to you all.
krosfyah Achievements and Awards
* 1993 The Nation Entertainment Awards Most Improved Act
* 1994 The Nation Entertainment Awards Band of the Year
* 1994 Arts Support Alliance Band of the Year 1994
* 1995 The Nation Entertainment Awards Band of the Year
* 1995 Barbados Road March - Third Place “Crank It”
* 1995 National Cultural Foundation Best Community Band 1995
* 1996 Caribbean Music Awards Album of the Year ’95 – “Pump Me Up”
* 1996 Boston Caribbean Music Awards Best International Group Award
* 1996 People’s Choice Award Edging out Shaggy, Buju Banton and SuperBlue)
* 1996 Edwin received the keys to the City of Boston from the Mayor’s Office
* 1996 Barbados Malibu Congaline Festival Road March “Yardie”
* 1996 Barbados Crop Over Festival Band of the Year
* 1996 K103 Radio, Montreal, Canada Champion “Battle of the Bands”
* Street Sounds R&B program - Pump Me Up, the first Soca song to have ever entered the competition, beating Prince’s new
release 30 - 4.)
* 1996 Reggae Soca Awards - Miami Best Soca Group 1996
* 1996 The Ultimate Party CD turns GOLD. (January)
* 1997 Music Manufacturing Services Certified Gold Record - Canada
* 1997 Trinidad Music Awards - Best Song” All Aboard” written by Edwin
Yearwood for the band Atlantik.
* 1997 Boston Caribbean Music Awards Best International Group 1997
* 1997 Caribbean Music Awards Best Group 1997
* 1997 Best recording of the year “Ultimate Party - Pump Me Up”.
* 1997 Sunshine Music Awards - N.Y. Best Recording By a Group
* 1999 World Beat Music Awards For Their Contribution to Soca Music
* 2001 Barbados Crop Over Festival Road March “Sak Pasé”
* 2002 Barbados Crop Over Festival 3rd Place Road March Song “Road Jam”
* 2003 Trinidad Carnival Hottest Overall Soca Brass Band
* 2006 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2006 13th Reggae Soca Music Awards Best Soca Group & Album of the Year - May
* 2006 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2006 Barbados Music Awards Raga Soca of the year - Tony Bailey
* 2007 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2008 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year & Best Soca Single
* 2008 Rd March, Party & People’s Monarch Handle ya Bizniz, Unleash & Nah Missin Me
* 2009 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2009 Rd March & People’s Monarch In de Middle ah de Road
* 2010 Soca Royale Party Monarch 2nd place Edwin Yearwood "Chrissenin"
* 2010 Road March 2nd place Edwin Yearwood "Chrissenin"
* 2010 Notable Award from Ministry of Culture & NCF 20yrs contribution to Barbadian soca music
* 2010 Barbados Music Awards Band of the Year
* 2010 Barbados Music Awards Music Video Of The Year (Male) - Edwin Yearwood "Chrissenin"
* 2011 Sweet Soca Royale 3rd place Edwin Yearwood "Good Time"
* 2011 Soca Royale Party Monarch 3rd place Edwin Yearwood "Cova D Road"
* 2011 Road March 1st place Edwin Yearwood "Cova D Road"
Some krosfyah Notable Performances
* 1995 St. Kitts Music Festival
* 1996 Cartegena Music Festival - Columbia (Hailed as one of the best bands of entire festival)
* 1996 Cohobblopot - Barbados
* 1996 Stadtgarten at POPKOM Music Festival - Germany
* 1996 Museumsuferfest - Frankfurt, Germany
* 1996 Miami Carnival
* 1996 Air Jamaica U.S. Promotional Tour
* 1996 Trinidad Carnival
* 1997 Suriname Tour
* 1997 Radio City Music Hall
* 1997 Bahamas Musik Festival
* 1997 BTA UK Tour
* 1997 Curacao / Aruba / Suriname Tour
* 1997 Reggae Riddums Festival - New Orleans
* 1997 Central Park Summerstage - New York
* 1997 The Onyx - MIDEM Latin America & Caribbean Music Market – Miami
* 1997 Montserrat - free Christmas Concert
* 1997 Trinidad Carnival
* 1997 Sinbad Music Festival – Aruba
* 1998 Bermuda Tour
* 1998 Germany & Amsterdam Tour
* 1998 Bonaire Tour
* 1998 Caricom Heads of State Concert – St. Lucia
* 1998 Trinidad Carnival
* 1999 Colleges across the USA
* 1999 New Orleans Jazz Festival
* 1999 Montreal Jazz Festival
* 1999 Washington Carnival
* 1999 African Festival, Washington, DC
* 1999 Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, VA
* 1999 Afrobean, San Francisco, CA
* 1999 Afrikadey Festival (Dundey), Calgary
* 1999 World Beat Music Festival, Trinidad
* 1999 Pirates Week Festival
* 1999 Spirit of Unity Tour
* 1999 WOMEX Trade Fair, Berlin, Germany
* 1999 Trinidad Carnival
* 1999 Trinidad Hilton
* 2000 University of Central Florida
* 2000 Clayton State College
* 2000 International Sunfest
* 2000 Boat Ride, New York
* 2000 Crop Over 2000, Barbados
* 2000 Carifesta Fascination Cruise Ship
* 2000 Trinidad Carnival
* 2000 St. Vincent Pre-Election Celebration
* 2000 Jamaica Bacchanal Village
* 2000 Congaline Festival, Barbados
* 2000 Island In the Park with Air Jamaica
* 2000 Belgium & Netherlands
* 2001 Crop Over Barbados
* 2001 Miami Carnival
* 2001 World Creole Music Festival, Dominica
* 2001 Montreal, Quebec
* 2001 St. Philip’s Carnival, Barbados
* 2001 Trinidad Carnival
* 2001 Jamaica Carnival
* 2001 Calypso Spectakula Barbados
* 2002 Crop Over Barbados
* 2002 Trinidad Carnival
* 2002 Cayman Is Quincentennial Celebrations
* 2003 Crop Over Barbados
* 2003 Brooklyn Museum
* 2003 St. Lucia Wet Fete
* 2003 St. Croix
* 2003 Tortola
* 2003 St. Thomas
* 2004 Bonaire
* 2004 Trinidad Carnival
* 2004 Labour Day
* 2004 Tortola/ Bonaire/ St. Croix/St. Thomas
* 2004 Guadelope/ St. Vincent/ Antigua/Dominica
* 2004 England/ Holland/ UK
* 2005 Barbados - Crop Over Festival
* 2006 Unite the Nations - Toronto
* 2006 Barbados - Crop Over Festival
* 2006 N.Y - Labour Day Weekend
* 2006 Hartford – Sept. 8
* 2006 Guyana – Oct. 28
* 2006 Suriname – Nov. 4
* 2007 Bonaire/ Curacao Carnival- Jan
* 2007 Calgary – March 3
* 2007 London/Holland June 16/17
* 2008 Crop Over – Barbados
* 2009 St. Martin Carnival
* 2009 Crop Over - Barbados
* 2009 Virginia Festival
* 2010 St. Maarten
* 2010 St. Thomas/St. Croix
* 2010 St. Vincent
* 2010 Grenada
* 2010 Suriname
* 2010 Dominica Creole Festival
* 2010 England
* 2010 New York
* 2010 Calgary, Canada
* 2010 Ten to Ten Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Wahdadah Morning Brek Out Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 CBC Socoholics Last Fete Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Brewster's Road (24) Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Soca on D Hill Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Wadadah Back to school Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Krosfyah BDF Fete Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Soca Gold Plantation Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Grand Performance Cohobblopot Barbados Crop Over
* 2010 Barbados Crop Over Kadooment Day with Power by 4
* 2010 4 Ever 21 Party Stand Dec 31
* 2011 Guyana
* 2011 Trinidad
* 2011 St. Lucia
* 2011 Barbados Crop Over - Kensington Party Stand ~ Start De Party, Hott 95.3FM and Power X 4
* 2011 St. Peter Festival ~ Speighstown
* 2011 Houston, Texas
* 2011 Outrageous In Red Barbados Crop Over
* 2011 Wadadah Back to School
* 2011 Soca Titans
* 2011 Glow with Power by 4
* 2011 Ten to Ten
* 2011 Cohobblopot
* 2011 Kadooment Day on the road with Contact Band
* 2011 Tortola
* 2011 England (Nottinghill Carnival)
* 2011 New York (KesFyah Fete ~ Bajan Soca Splash)
* 2011 St Thomas VI
* 2011 St Croix
* 2011 Bonaire