CD launch at Blood Bank

The CD which is aimed at raising funds to support the FBBA’s operations, features an impressive line-up of local artistes and upcoming performers. Speaking at the launch, executive producer Gerald Agostini said while CD contains elements of parang, it also includes tracks that can be enjoyed at any time of year.

“We initially wanted to do traditional soca-parang music, but opted for kaiso-parang, which is something slightly different. It’s not really a Christmas CD because we tried to maintain the elements of mainstream calypso music in it.” Agostini said he was disheartened by the responses of some individuals and companies when he sought assistance.

“One of the major challenges that we encountered through this project was getting the necessary people to assist with the production and distribution of the CD. A lot of the persons that we attempted to get in contact with have not even contacted us.” Despite the challenges, however, Agostini expressed his satisfaction with the support from the National Trade Union Congress General Secretary, Michael Annisette with assistance for the CD’s sale and distribution. Annisette who attended the launch said he felt the need to support the initiative as trade unionists have often been criticised for not practising what they preach.

“I felt that this was a worthwhile venture for the trade union to pursue, as it cuts across the traditional perceptions of trade unions as marching up and down. We understand the challenges that the FBBA has faced and I believe that we as trade unionists have a social responsibility to giving back to our community.” FBBA president Marie Ayoung- Chee said she was optimistic the initiative would go towards assisting the association in its continued efforts to provide much-needed assistance to blood recipients in need and made an emphatic plea to music pirates: “I would just like to make a public appeal to pirates, if they can please spare us on this one. All of the funds generated from the sale of the CD, goes towards the association and helping others in need of blood transfusions.

Who knows maybe one day you yourself may need a blood transfusion.” Also at the launch were popular soca parang artistes Eddie Charles and Kenny J who expressed their satisfaction with the finished product and urged public support for the FBBA and purchase the CD.