For Abel Stokes, a young Guyanese musician and singer, being born in a music-loving home was what drove him from a young age to dedicate himself to learning the art of singing and playing an instrument. This dedication has led him to become a prominent artist in his country.
“I was inspired by my parents’ love of reggae music. My father wanted to be a singer but he didn’t achieve his dream, however my love for music is what made me pursue it. I started that journey after I finished school,” Abel stated in an exclusive interview granted to CubaPLUS Guyana.
Raised in the humble village of Buxton, in the Demerara-Mahaica region, he was drawn to reggae music from a young age, although today he also cultivates pop and R&B. “Although I have my own appreciation and love for most genres, these resonate more with me, thanks to my parents, my community, my peers and how they make me feel,” he considered.
When asked about the figures who have inspired him in his development, he mentioned John Legend, Bob Marley, Chronixx, Miguel, Dave Martins, Romain Virgo, Samuel Medas, Lianne La Havas, Bruno Mars, just to name a few, who could be said to have guided him on his path to success.
Despite being a faithful cultivator of his country’s music, above all, Abel expressed his admiration for the music of the largest of the Antilles and pointed out that “I love Cuban music because it is so rich and has a greater variety of instruments and vocal ranges.
Above all, it is a live band-oriented musical genre. I enjoy listening to Kiki Valera, Gente de Zona and David Calzado, as I love the salsa and merengue dance style.”
In recent years, despite his still short career, Abel has performed on numerous and important stages in his country with prominent musicians, including the iconic Dave Martins, and considered that “Guyana has a growing music industry that has been developing over the years. We are the next generation of creatives who will take us further on international platforms.”
Considered one of the promises of Guyanese music, Abel sets himself as one of the most important goals of his life, to spread good vibes internationally through his own music and, at the same time, become one of the best exponents of the genres he cultivates and that has never before come out of Guyana. A goal that is not easy, but his audience is certain that with his talent and dedication he will achieve it.
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