Pretty Boy Worldwide, the Caribbean’s first pop record label launched by Bajan entrepreneur Trevor Pretty aims at raising awareness of the talent of the West Indies.
Pretty makes it his mission to support and uplift his artists and one of the many ways he does this is by having showcases to highlight their talent. From April 22 to April 28, Pretty invited a group of music industry executives, media, and influencers to take advantage of the Pretty Boy experience in the gorgeous island of Sint Maarten.
The first two days of the showcase shown a light on Bajan singer, DWN and St. Maarten singer, Kenyo Baly. Attendees of the show got a true taste of Caribbean soul and pop, needless to say they were craving more. However, the experience didn’t only include performances by incredible artists, guests were also given the opportunity to explore the island which included experiencing the food, beaches, extracurricular activities, and nightlife. The second half of the trip included dining at Pineapple Pete and Emilio’s. Emilio’s comes with a rich and deep history. After being a slave on the plantation, Emilio Wilson bought the estate from the owners and became a symbol of strength and determination of an Afro Caribbean man. Now 67 years later Emilio has passed away, but his legacy is still celebrated. Our meal at Emilio’s consisted of your choice of mini crab cakes or crispy goat cheese as an appetizer, airline chicken breast or snapper en papillote as an entrée, and Su’s carrot cake or a salted chocolate tart for dessert. Our bellies had no complaints during the entire excursion. The group returned to Emilio’s the next day but this time to experience the Flying Dutchman which is the steepest zip line in the world located right next to the historic restaurant. We rode up the Soualiga Sky Explorer, a total of 2,997 ft, enjoyed the thrill of three different lines, we even zipped upside down before taking in the 360-degree views at the top of Sentry Hill. After a day full of adventure and delicious grubs, we were ready for night three.
Night three of the showcase highlighting Caribbean artists was held at Simpson Bay Resort and starred singer Navy, originally from the island of Dominica and currently based in Barbados. Navy is an emerging singer and songwriter signed to Pretty Boy Worldwide. Her blend of R&B and soul with her distinct Caribbean vibes make her an artist like no other, she is in her own lane. Prior to Navy taking the stage by storm, Bajan and Swedish singer/songwriter Marwin of Pretty Boy Worldwide took to the stage to open the show. Marwin who is also a member of the collective, Taste of Pluto has an eclectic sound pulling from his Caribbean roots meshed with a unique authenticity that doesn’t box him into any specific genre. His passion for music and energy while performing is contagious.
The same passion the artists leave on stage is the same passion Pretty Boy Worldwide CEO, Trevor Pretty uses to fuel his love for his team. “The word of tonight is silence,” Pretty exclaimed, “Caribbean parents, stop silencing your children’s dreams, it’s ridiculous.” He continued to say, “parents got to encourage their children, that’s their first investment, telling them that it’s possible. Because Rihanna was possible, Beyonce was possible, it’s about not silencing your children’s dreams.” And now we can say, Navy is possible. After a captivating theatrical procession to the stage, Navy started the show saying, “always travel with protection” followed by her singing top songs, “Patra,” “One Shot,” “Pity” and a cover of Snoh Aalegra’s “I Want You Around”. After a standing ovation guests left happier than ever when gifted with their very own pair of Clarks Originals, a shoe ingrained in Caribbean culture.
Pretty Boy Worldwide artist Navy performing at the Pretty Boy Caribbean Artist showcase
The showcase wrapped with another St. Maarten native artist, Cay Hill who performed at Motorworld. Cay Hill is a singer and songwriter that is at the very beginning of an amazing career. Her song, “Going Back” with Reverse and Sherman De Vries has already reached half a million streams on Spotify after debuting just a month ago. Prior to Cay Hill’s performance, Pretty Boy Worldwide artist, Blvckhaze representing her Curacaoan roots opened the show. After singing several original songs, Arii Lopez joined her on stage to perform “SWA.” Cay Hill then took over performing a few original songs as well as an a capella cover of Victoria Monet’s “Ass Like That.” And it was only right that the two childhood friends and natives of the island, Kenyo Baly, and Cay Hill link up to perform Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s “You’re All I Need to Get By.” After the heartfelt performance, all the artists gathered on stage for one final performance which ended in a burst of applause and a well-deserved standing ovation.
Pretty Boy Worldwide artist Cay Hill performing at the Pretty Boy Caribbean artist showcase
While the world was shut down, there is one vital factor that kept us going and that was music. Respect their craft, support the artists, and don’t be afraid to explore new talent. To keep up with the featured artists, be sure to follow them on Instagram at @prettyboyworldwide, @marwinpbw, @navypbw, @blvckhaze, and @cayhill.
