MMG intends to capitalize on the abundance of local talent

by Karen Palmer 29.JUN.07

Adrian Bailey strikes the right note as the Magma Music Group (MMG), St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ first record label, was launched last Thursday at the Aquatic Club.{{more}}

Aside from being CEO and mastermind of the MMG, Bailey has a list of bragging rights that range from being a member of BlackSand from 1991, to being producer of Kevin Lyttle’s acclaimed “Turn Me On”, a song which Bailey says helped carve Caribbean music into a genre of its own. He commented that MMG intends to capitalize on the abundance of local talent, aiming to bring St.Vincent and the Grenadines to the forefront of the musical scene. Bailey added that this country has lacked a professional approach to music production and distribution, essential ingredients for international success that MMG will now provide.

An enthused Minister of Culture, Rene Baptiste, exclaimed that there could be “Something good out of Nazareth” as she commended Bailey’s proficiency and perseverance, adding that she fully endorses Bailey and the MMG. However, Baptiste deplored the critical nature of many Vincentians, and encouraged citizens to support local musicians, giving credit where credit is due.

The yard stick by which future artists will be measured is none other than Gideon James, former member of the band Touch and the first artist to be signed by the MMG, who performed hits off his newly released album “So Special”. Bailey said James is no stranger to the music business, and that he is the “best voice out of SVG”.

Designed to accommodate different genres, the MMG is divided into three sub-labels: ‘Sky Jams Records’ for soca, ‘Karuz Records’ for Caribbean fusion reggae and alternative music, as well as ‘Honor Records’ for gospel and religious music. Bailey says MMG anticipates working with regional and international labels, and said information on this will be released to the press at a later date.