Francis ‘Leebo’ De Lima is a musical icon whose contribution to the performing and recording industry in Saint Lucia was invaluable.
I first met Leebo when he invited me to assist him with some harmonies for a piece of music he was producing at his home grown studio. From then on we had many collaborations and it was always rewarding to work with him, because he had the natural ability when recording or mixing a piece to be sympathetic to the composition and expressions that you wanted to achieve. This was particularly helpful to me when recording and mixing pieces for the Theatre like ‘Shining Bush’, ‘Blind Billy Blue’ – composed for Derek Walcott’s Play ‘Odyssey ’ ; ‘Samantha’ for the Play ‘La Chunga’ by Marco Vargas Llosa and many others.
This ability was palpable and unrestricted across a wide range of musical genres.
Coupled with this was his genuine humanity and personality, and you always felt assured that he would make a special effort to achieve the best possible result for you.
What many may not know is that Leebo, apart from also being a sportsman, was also an ardent recreational fisherman, and when together, we enjoyed many stories of our experiences (“The big one that got away’!!)
Leebo was a gift to us – a well-rounded individual and family man, and I am proud to have had him as a friend and colleague in music.
Words somehow seem inadequate
He will be missed. Rest In Peace My Friend.
Sincere condolences to all the family.
Gene Lawrence
10th April 2018