Music

The variety of music available for your wedding is so vast that we list only our most sought after bands, though we can provide a selection of options for the most specific of music preferences.

Genre's
Definitions of Local Music

Calypso / Found Percussion:
Good option for adventure seekers breaking conventional norms that enjoy light and airy performances with deeper meanings . . .

Calypso is a rhythmic lulling type of music with satiric and often folksy like lyrics. Having been developed in Trinidad in the early 1900's it can also have a tone of political or social double entendre though is frequently considered uplifting in its nature. The text of the music seems to follow that of a ballad with four-line refrains followed by eight-line stanzas. The relatively basic rhyming is a good balance for the extremely thoughtful and unusual use of language, sometimes even creating its own. Colloquial expressions, such as bobol (graft), pakoti (unfaithfulness), and graf (girl) are good examples of the exaggerated speech patterns and distorted accentuations found in Calypso. Taking its heart from history, Calypso pulls from her past lives incorporating Spanish, Creole, and African languages. Original and quick witted, Calypso offers great tropical tunes for any celebration.

Reggae:
Good option for couples whose still water's run deep. Reggae matches well with people who enjoy the loud rhythm in the night letting music move their feet and serve their souls.

Founded in the early 70's originating from Jamaica this style of music takes its lead from traditional Ska. With a heavy handed sound, Reggae's driving force is a four part beat heard most strongly from the drums, electric guitar and/or bass. This music sprang from the streets of Kingston and political commentary on the futures of the island man are frequently heard throughout the lyrics. Created to encourage and strengthen the spirits of the people Reggae is a powerful music sure to enrich your Caribbean experience and encourage dancers to move their bodies with the beat.

Cover:
Good option for weddings with a more traditional feel and when guest's ages range greatly. Cover Bands on St. John will naturally have a Caribbean feel to them heard through the sing-songy approach to various lyrics; however, they will also play music widely familiar to the public.

Most wedding bands throughout the world tend to be cover bands, diverse in experience and training. They are able to play music throughout the world and are familiar and even experts in turning their instruments into art. If imitation is the best form of flattery then Cover Bands have come by their popularity honestly. Most engaged couples can not dispute the comfort and pure untainted enjoyment of hearing songs we all love. Cover Bands offer you the opportunity to bring tradition back to your untraditional island wedding.

Music / Band Options

Caribbean / Calypso Music:
Led by local performer, Jesse, this band has been rockin' the island tunes for many years. As a has a smooth sound that brings soul, jive, rhythm & blues to life while also letting the island beat raise you to your dancing feet. Priced moderately, this 6-9 piece band, often dressed in matching Hawaiian style shirts, is a huge hit for weddings seeking some local flavor and embracing the island sound. Speak to your planner about their play lists.

Cover Band:
Guitarist and band leader, Greg, has been the driving force behind this impressive contemporary sound. This group is known for its jammin' tunes that are familiar to all. As a cover band they hit all the right notes bringing favorites from Bob Marley to the Beatles back to life. Enjoy this 5-6 piece band with female vocalist Shakima, reminiscent of Lauren Hill. Your guests will be sure to thank you.

Internationally Acclaimed Reggae Band:
As an international sensation, this band finds itself traveling the world at large sharing their music with cultures and connecting people with their songs. As original musicians they are known for their electric Reggae beat, having performed throughout the US & Europe. It is St. John's own home grown sensation. Speak to your planner about availability as their band tours abroad yearly.

Music for your Ceremony & Cocktail Hour

Greg:
An accomplished guitarist, Greg, can serenade your ceremony solo or accompanied by sax, flute or violin. This incredibly talented man brings all your favorites to life from Pachabel's Cannon to Van Morrison. Select him and you'll be glad you did.

Rich:
Rich, a steadfast performer on the wind instruments, sets the flute alight from songs as familiar as The Girl from Ipanema to Jazz favorites and Classical marches. Alone he can hold his own and in pairs or trios his sound is not lost. Enjoy Rich during your ceremony and/or cocktail hour.

Mark:
With his years of experience it is no surprise that Mark is able to replicate nearly any song though his true talent is in serenades. As a classically trained guitarist Mark has learned to manipulate the strings to replicate most sounds and is a true gentleman. You will be delighted to have him stand by you as your ceremony unfolds, include him during cocktail hour and your guests will feel at ease.

Al:
Steel Pan is from our Caribbean culture, rooted in African & Indian drumming, Steel Pan is a celebration instrument meant to make your heart beat. Al has spent many years perfecting this instrument and can be seen performing all over island from The Westin to local restaurants. Reasonably priced, he is proficient at keeping ceremony music lyrical and cocktail hours up tempo. From Pachabel's Cannon to Yellow Bird let Al get your island juices flowing.