Gilman “Gil” Theophilus Figaro, often called “Figgie” to his Caribbean followers, is a key determine in Caribbean tradition. Born in San Fernando, Trinidad, he’s a celebrated songwriter, scriptwriter, producer, and the founding father of the Sunshine Awards. His repute for producing high-quality work has earned him a spot among the many prime Caribbean promoters, and his contributions to Caribbean artwork, music, dance, and poetry are widely known.
Figaro’s humble beginnings formed his sturdy values. Raised by modest dad and mom who instilled the significance of integrity and hope, Figaro was launched to music early in life via his uncle, Daniel Emmanuel Jardine Gilchrist, a widely known calypsonian, also referred to as Younger Killer or Uncle Fat. From a younger age, Figaro accompanied his uncle to calypso tents, the place he noticed legends just like the Mighty Sparrow, Lord Kitchener, and Lord Christo carry out. Below his uncle’s steering, Figaro discovered the craft of songwriting and melody creation. At 15, Figaro wrote his first tune, “Folks,” and produced his highschool’s first carnival and calypso present at St. Benedict’s School in La Romain.
After highschool, Figaro moved to america to additional his schooling. He earned a enterprise diploma from St. Francis School in Brooklyn and an MBA from Lengthy Island College, all whereas working numerous jobs, together with as a cab driver. Regardless of his busy schedule, his ardour for Caribbean tradition by no means wavered. In 1985, he based Calypso for Africa, Inc., a nonprofit to lift funds for Ethiopia’s drought disaster. He co-authored “Now’s the Time,” a tune that featured 72 calypsonians throughout generations and helped elevate cash for Ethiopia via UNICEF.
In 1989, Figaro based the Sunshine Awards to honor Caribbean artists, performers, and cultural promoters. The awards rapidly gained recognition for his or her excellence, and in 1991, they acquired endorsement from the Nationwide Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS), which oversees the GRAMMY Awards. Figaro hoped that calypso and metal band music would at some point be represented within the GRAMMYs, with the Sunshine Awards performing as a bridge to that purpose.
The Sunshine Awards program has grown over time, increasing internationally to incorporate Africa, Asia, Europe, and extra. In 1998, Figaro established the Sunshine Awards Scholar Recognition Program, which yearly honors excellent female and male college students from the Caribbean. These college students journey to New York, the place they current awards and take part in instructional and cultural actions.
Patrick Edwards
Figaro’s dedication to Caribbean tradition extends globally. He wrote the theme tune for the Sunshine Awards, “Sunshine,” which was chosen by the United Nations for the Caribbean Competition in Italy in 1994. In 1998, he produced the “Track for Montserrat,” a charity undertaking that introduced collectively 119 Caribbean artists to lift funds for victims of the volcanic eruptions in Montserrat. His work continues to affect the worldwide stage, as seen via his collaborations with famend artists and establishments.
Figaro has additionally produced notable occasions such because the Steelband Competition at Brooklyn School in 1998 and the College of the West Indies Galas, the place he paid tribute to figures like Normal Colin Powell and actor Sidney Poitier. In 2004, he co-hosted a live performance at Carnegie Corridor to rejoice the Haitian Revolution, producing a CD titled “Completely happy Birthday Haiti” to mark the event.
Along with music, Figaro has been concerned in numerous cultural initiatives. In 1996, he wrote the script and has been acknowledged with a number of accolades, together with the Heritage Award in 1998 for advancing calypso and metal band music.
All through his profession, Figaro has made a long-lasting affect on each Caribbean and international music and humanities. His ardour for creativity and excellence has led him to supply high-profile occasions and contribute social causes whereas remaining humble and grounded. At present, Figaro continues to encourage via his work, solidifying his place as one of many Caribbean’s most influential cultural ambassadors.
Regardless of his many accolades, Figaro stays modest, remembered by mates and friends as a humble determine who has made a profound distinction within the lives of many via his dedication to the humanities.
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