Musical picnic for Tony Voisin

“The bobbing head and strumming style that was his signature move has been copied by so many musicians of today,” described Adrian Philbert, one of the vocalists in the band in the 90s, and one of the organisers of D Tony Voisin Family Cooler/Picnic “lime” takes place at Maracas, St Joseph Ranch tomorrow (Saturday) from 12.30 pm.

The event has been put together to offset medical expenses that has to be borne by Voisin to treat with his illness.

Philbert said, “Tony was one of the gentlest of human beings. His kindness, humility and his quick smile was part of the Tony we all loved. Even now during his illness the smile remains.”

He explained the idea behind the lime. He said it is to pay homage to the many musicians who for many decades gave of themselves, and tried to build the music industry of TT, without much monetary reward. “Tony is a prime example of this. We all know of ‘Tony’ and Junior Warwood who put their signature style of guitar on most of the recordings of the not too distant past. Junior has since passed along with so many others and we all have forgotten these individuals who put our music first, with money, secondary,” stated Philbert.

The event itself takes the form of “live” jam sessions where musicians are asked to bring their own instruments

Philbert also stated that the lime is part of a continued effort to heal and bring back genuine love for the music and mend the many burned bridges and bitterness that seems to epitomise the music industry today.

He then reminisced, “Tony as we all know was the smiling cool dude who would take a taxi, rather than drive, just so he can interact with the general public. It was a joke in the band that you have to tell Tony at least an hour before the band starts that we ready to go on now, because he has to stop and shake hands or have a quick chat with dozens of people before he hits the stage.”

The lime is open to everyone and is free.

Patrons are asked to walk with their coolers for the picnic-style event, as well as items for barbecue, grilling and cooking with set ups available for that purpose.

All musicians who will be attending are also asked to walk with their instruments, as there will be amps, stage lights and a PA system.

Among those expected to attend are KV Charles, Carl and Carol Jacob, Kenny Phillips, Pelham Goddard and many more musicians. Philbert’s band Semibreve will be there too.