Prominent Antiguan cultural advocate Michael Freeland has strongly endorsed the government’s recommendation to knight members of the soca band Burning Flames, calling them “cultural treasures” who have shaped Antigua and Barbuda’s musical identity for more than four decades.
Freeland praised Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Cabinet for putting forward Toriano “Onyan” Edwards, Clarence “Oungku” Edwards, David “Krokuss” Edwards, and Rhone “Foxx” Watkins for knighthoods at this year’s Independence celebrations.
“As a fellow native of St George, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact these extraordinary musicians have had on our community and our nation,” he said in a statement.
Burning Flames, formed in 1984, rose to international fame for their innovative approach to soca, helping to popularise Antiguan music across the Caribbean and beyond. The band’s influence has been recognised locally, with Potters Main Road renamed Burning Flames Highway earlier this year.
Freeland described the proposed knighthoods as “a well-deserved honour”, placing the quartet alongside celebrated Antiguan musicians such as Sir McLean Emanuel and the late Sir Rupert “Swallow” Philo.
“These men have given their lives to preserving and advancing our musical heritage,” Freeland said. “They have inspired countless young artists and helped define what it means to be Antiguan and Barbudan.”
He urged the Honours Committee to approve the recommendation “without hesitation”, adding that the recognition would serve as a symbol of national pride and cultural achievement.
Burning Flames, which has earned multiple regional awards, remains one of the most celebrated soca bands in the Caribbean, with a career spanning more than 40 years.
