Photo credit: Ted Sandiford
The Saint Lucian Creative Community continues to celebrate Francis “Leebo” DeLima.
Here’s another heartfelt tribute from Sherwinn “Dupes” Brice, singer, songwriter and producer.
About a week ago I was asked to say some words and in the middle of the street in Austin, Texas, I broke down in tears…. Pulled myself together and did as asked. It wasn’t easy but life isn’t ever easy is it?
I never felt like I could make a life out of Music until I met you. I had met alot of artists but not producers, not Living Legends, carrying the music and culture of an island on their back.
Over the years together we grew as friends and in my heart we were true brothers. When I decided to become an artist and you were one of the first ones to embrace and encourage me to pursue something that was more than a dream but a calling, a responsibility.
Your music lives on forever. I can hear all the songs I know you did in my head. I can remember sitting and listening to your beats like a forensic scientist just tryna figure it all out. You’d give me samples and software and honest feedback and most importantly – a chance.
I love how your family became my family as we shared stories and they became weaved into the music we made. From “Take You Home” to “Guilty” to “Dip Pon Di Floor”. We made music that the world could dance to.
I can’t pick a favourite, but the first time I saw you do “Rain” live, I was like damn dude can do it all and you really have. The measure of a man is the legacy he leaves behind.
MJ had Quincy. I had Leebo.
The beat goes on…. Love you always
– Dupes