BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE nation of St. Kitts and Nevis mourns the loss of one of its most illustrious sons who passed away yesterday (Aug. 26) in the United States of America.
He is Kenrick Anderson Georges, the lyricist and composer of the twin-island Federation’s National Anthem, O Land of Beauty.
Paying tribute to the late musical icon, Leader of the Opposition, the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas said it was with deep sadness and utter shock that he learnt of his passing, noting that Georges was a skilled musician and poet.
“Kenrick was a gentle, yet courageous soul who used his extraordinary intellect and exception skills in music and poetry to bring life’s lessons and joy to all humanity.
“Kenrick’s exploits in the field of music were as prolific as the work he left. And from his life’s journey, he shared his passion for music with his students, members of the community and his family.”
Dr. Douglas explained that in more recent times, Georges had displayed enormous pride over the accomplishments of his son Kenijah in the field of music.
“Kenrick was a musical icon to whom the words and composition of our National Anthem – ‘O Land of Beauty’ – are attributed,” he said. “Every Kittitian and Nevisian must come or will come, for innumerable years ahead, to appreciate the genius and the beauty of the soul of Kenrick by this illustrious work to which he has been immortalized.”
The Opposition Leader stated that beyond Georges’ gleaming talents, he was an exemplary human being.
Dr. Douglas also stated that Georges expressed love in a variety of ways.
“He loved life, he loved his family, he loved people and, of course, he loved culture. He taught love, respect, the values of hard work and perseverance to dependents.
“Kenrick’s love for his homeland epitomizes what it truly means to be Kittitian and Nevisian. But even more than that, Mr. Georges was an advocate for justice. He was a moral compass and a shining light in our community.”
In offering condolences to the bereaved, Dr. Douglas said: “With the peace of God that passes all understanding comfort his dear family, his friends and our entire nation during this period…May the soul of our departed friend rest in peace.”
Kenrick Anderson George, a Kittitian by birth, had resided in John Street, Newtown before his migration to the United States of America.
It is said that he was a trumpeter and musical arranger for the Grand Ash, one of the more popular brass bands in St. Kitts and Nevis during the 1960s and 1970s.
