Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission Celebrates Release of the “Black Pineapple Riddim”

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission proudly celebrates the official release of the Black Pineapple Riddim, a groundbreaking musical project born directly out of the MUSIC PRODUCERS’ MASTERCLASS: AUDIO ESSENTIALS facilitated by internationally acclaimed music producer Kasey Phillips, CEO and Founder of Precision Productions. 

The workshop, hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission in 2025, was designed to empower local producers, creatives, and artistes by providing critical insight into music production, sound engineering, songwriting, and the evolving business of Caribbean music.

Today, that initiative has blossomed into what is already being hailed as an iconic contribution to the Antiguan and Barbudan soca landscape.

The Black Pineapple Riddim represents an important chapter in the ongoing evolution of the Antiguan sound, a bold and intentional exploration into the identity, rhythm, and spirit of Antigua and Barbuda through music.

Drawing inspiration from legendary Antiguan musical influences such as Burning Flames, while incorporating contemporary Caribbean and R&B sonic textures, the riddim captures both tradition and innovation in a single powerful production.

At its core, the project seeks to answer a defining question within the growing Antiguan soca movement: “What is the Antiguan sound?” The result is a dynamic musical experience that fuses the unmistakable “kang-kang” energy reminiscent of the iconic “Debble Riddim” cowbell with lush synths, modern grooves, and authentic Caribbean storytelling.

The riddim features an exceptional lineup of Antiguan and Barbudan talent, including Tian Winter, Drastic, DmitriB, Arlen Seaton, and Nikki Nooks. Each artiste delivers a unique flavour to the project, creating a musical “pepperpot” that seamlessly reflects the diversity and cultural richness of Antigua and Barbuda.

Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, one of the key advocates behind the workshop initiative, praised the project as a testament to the power of investing in creative development and local talent. “This workshop was always envisioned as more than just a learning experience; it was about creating opportunities, inspiring collaboration, and helping to shape the future sound of Antigua and Barbuda. To now witness the release of the Black Pineapple Riddim as a direct product of that initiative is truly remarkable. It speaks to the incredible talent we have here and the importance of continuing to invest in our creatives and cultural industries,” stated Ambassador Makhoul. 

Produced, mixed, and mastered by Precision Productions, the Black Pineapple Riddim delivers five offerings that blend effortlessly while maintaining the individuality of each artiste and track.

TRACK LISTING & CREDITS:

• DmitriB – “So What”
Written by Dmitri Bernard Erv Baptiste

• Nikki Nooks – “Last Time”
Written by Nikki Nooks
Background Vocals: Cleavon “Cjae” Childs & Chestine James

• Arlen Seaton – “Neighbah”
Written by Charles Arlen Seaton & Blashford Wilkins

• Drastic – “Shalom”
Written by Art “Drastic” Philip

• Tian Winter – “Want Um”
Written by Cleavon “Cjae” Childs & Tian Winter
Background Vocals by Cleavon “Cjae” Childs

Additional Credits:
Produced, Mixed & Mastered by Precision Productions
All songs co-written by Kasey Michael Phillips
Guitar by Kyle Peters
In collaboration with the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission

The Black Pineapple Riddim is now available on YouTube and digital streaming platforms.

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