Legendary Caribbean musical arranger Frankie McIntosh among five to be inducted into inaugural Vincentian Cultural Hall of Fame

The Brooklyn-based Dynamite Cultural Organization (DCO) – renowned for its dynamic presence in New York’s Caribbean community and the home of the Dynamite Calypso Tent of New York – the lone Vincentian calypso tent in North America – says that legendary Caribbean musical arranger Dr. Franklyn “Frankie” McIntosh will be among five Vincentian “icons” to be inducted during DCO’s inaugural Cultural Hall of Fame on April 19 at Nazareth Regional High School in Brooklyn.

DCO said on Sunday that Dr. McIntosh will be inducted for his role in the performing arts.

The other inductees are Veronica John and Roy “The Dragon” Ralph (both posthumously) for culinary and visual arts, respectively; the Spiritual Baptist Religion in the heritage and legacy category; and historian Dr. Adrian Fraser for literary arts.

DCO described McIntosh, D.Litt., as “a true giant in the world of Caribbean music.”

It said his “holding an honorary Doctorate of Letters from the University of the West Indies reflects his vast accomplishments” and that he is “celebrated as a musical genius, calypso maestro and a foundational architect of Soca music.

“His innovative arrangements, infectious melodies, and profound inspired contributions have left an indelible mark on the Caribbean music scene, solidifying his place as not only a national but also a regional treasure,” DCO said.

It remembered John as a “culinary visionary” who founded VeeJays Restaurant in Kingstown, the Vincentian capital.

DCO said John had a “profound impact on Vincentian cuisine” and that VeeJays was “more than just a restauranteur.

“She was a culinary matriarch who defined the essence of Vincentian hospitality and championed the unique flavors of the nation,” it said. “Her influence on the Vincentian palate and culinary traditions continues to resonate today.”

DCO characterized the Spiritual Baptist Religion as “a cornerstone of Vincentian history and identity,” which is “recognized for its enduring legacy.

“This seminal institution shaped the social and spiritual fabric of the nation, embodying resilience and unwavering faith in the face of historical persecution,” it said. “Its inclusion highlights the importance of faith and community in the Vincentian narrative.”

DCO said Ralph was “an iconic mas man and visionary costume designer.

“His revolutionary contributions transformed Vincy Mas, injecting creativity, innovation, and awe-inspiring artistry into the annual carnival celebrations,” it said. “He pushed the boundaries of costume design and brought a fresh perspective to traditional mas, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations of mas men and women.”

DCO said Dr. Fraser, “a distinguished historian, author, and educator, is recognized for his unwavering dedication to preserving and disseminating Vincentian and Caribbean history.

“His extensive research, insightful publications, and commitment to education have played a vital role in fostering a deeper understanding of our and the region’s rich cultural heritage and complex historical narratives,” it said.

DCO said selecting the inaugural inductees was “a meticulous and comprehensive process.”

It said nominations were solicited from the Vincentian public and that “each submission underwent a rigorous vetting and fact-checking process by a diverse panel, comprising DCO members and Vincentians residing both in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and across the Diaspora.

“This commitment to inclusivity ensured that the selection panel truly represented the global community of Vincentians, guaranteeing a process free of bias and rooted in genuine merit,” DCO said.

It said the Hall of Fame will recognize excellence across five distinct categories, offering “a comprehensive portrait of the diverse artistic and cultural landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Culinary Arts, Literary Arts, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Heritage & Legacy.

“The inaugural class of inductees represents a pantheon of Vincentian luminaries, each a titan in their respective field,” DCO said. “This landmark initiative aims to enshrine the legacies of individuals and institutions that have significantly shaped and enriched Vincentian culture and heritage within St. Vincent and the Grenadines and across the Diaspora.

“The event promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating the extraordinary contributions of those who have dedicated their lives to preserving, innovating, and sharing the vibrant mosaic of Vincentian identity,” the statement added.

DCO’s public relations officer, Glenroy “Gobells” Phillips, said his organization is “incredibly honored to launch the St. Vincent & the Grenadines Cultural Hall of Fame.

“These inductees embody the very best of Vincentian culture, their contributions enriching our community and the world at large,” he said. “This ceremony is a tribute to their remarkable achievements and enduring legacies, ensuring they receive the recognition they so richly deserve.”