Winners of the 5th Belize Garifuna Song Competition
Garifuna music has been “tested and proven” on the national and international music stage!!
The overarching aim of the Belize Garifuna Song Competition is to take Garifuna music back to the pinnacle of world music recognition that Andy Palacio and The Garifuna Collective had taken it to in 2007.
Specific Objectives of the Competition are:
- To motivate musicians to produce quality Garifuna music that will be of world music standards.
- To provide a forum allowing musicians to showcase their Garifuna music and jump-start their careers.
- To encourage Garifuna musicians to continue producing songs in all genres of Garifuna music, thereby contributing to the library of Garifuna music across many genres.
- To assist musicians in acquiring the skills and equipment and connecting with professionals in the music industry who will assist in propelling them to the pinnacle of world-class music production.
- To contribute to cultural tourism by attracting international musical enthusiasts to a competition and related events where music of world-class category is being promoted.
The Competition is open to amateur and professional musicians who submit entries in any one of the following 5 genres (categories): Hungu Hungu, Paranda, Punta, Punta Rock or a mix (combination) of two or more of the aforementioned genres.
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Entries are judged on originality, melody, composition, and lyrics. The lyrics of all songs have to be in the Garifuna Language.
Winners of the 2024 Belize Garifuna Song Competition are:
- Song of the Year Award: “Libagari Garifuna” by Henry Miguel
- Budding Artist of the Year Award: “Busentiañ” by Rodney “Bam Bam” Avila
Listen to this years Songs here
