As Vincentians in New York celebrated their 45th anniversary of political independence from Great Britain late last month, Abena Amory was one of the artistes performing at the Gala Luncheon at Russo’s on the Bay in Howard Beach, Queens.
The other performer was calypsonian Dennis Bowman, a perennial competitor in the annual Vincy Mas, the national carnival.
Abena, a Brooklyn resident born in Nevis, the sister isle of St. Kitts, is the daughter of late Nevis Premier Vance Amory and celebrated Vincentian soprano Erlene Williams-King.
In introducing her daughter before she rendered several numbers from her repertoire, Williams-King, who served as Mistress of Ceremonies at the Gala Independence Anniversary Luncheon, said Abena “exemplifies beauty, within and without, charm, boldness, grace, and ambition in all that she pursues.
“To her parents, Abena was a gem of a gift granted to them and all who would cross her path,” she said. “She was destined to accomplish great things, with an exceptional love for the arts, music, and people.
“Today, Abena is ever creating and learning, masterfully shaping her destiny, and she is driven to change lives through her music,” added Williams-King, stating that her daughter “possesses a most rare and beautiful talent; one that captivates, inspires and moves others to act.”
She said Abena’s voice and passion for sharing her musical gift with the world “led her to a time such as now, a time to brighten our world with her voice of hope and vision of unity.
“Abena revels in every opportunity to share her love for music and her appreciation for her proud West Indian upbringing,” Williams-King said. “She sings to soothe the souls of her listeners and as a source of strength during some of the most trying times of her life.
“Music is an outlet that she enjoys and in which there is much reciprocity, as her fans and loved ones show their unbridled love and support for her music and her work,” she added.
On June 20, Abena released a new single with Kittitian Dejour entitled “Toxic Love.”
She was a finalist at the McDonald’s Gospel Fest and provides background vocals for Becket, Winston Soso, King Short Shirt, and Sparrow. She also performs for Vincentian calypsonians in New York, competing in the Brooklyn-based Dynamite Calypso Tent for the annual Preliminary Judging for Vincy Mas.
Williams-King urged fans to join Abena on her social media platforms to see “what’s coming next” on her “amazing musical journey as she continues to spread her message of love and positive vibes.
“The possibilities are endless,” Williams-King said.
