Mr Ridge, known as Coleridge Bell, now globally known as Mr Ridge or “Cross D Bridge,” at just 13 years old, began his journey into music with a keyboard gifted by his father. Today, he stands as a trailblazer, not just for Dominica’s bouyon genre but for Caribbean music as a whole. His mission? To connect the islands culturally and musically, and to push bouyon beyond its traditional boundaries. Through his innovative style, aptly named Nasty Business, Mr Ridge has redefined the rules of Caribbean music while preserving its essence.
Dominica’s culture at the heart of innovation
Mr Ridge’s roots in Dominica shine through in every beat and lyric of his music. “Dominica’s culture is vibrant, and bouyon is central to that,” he shares. However, bouyon’s reach was limited. This inspired him to infuse elements of live drums, fast tempos, and bold lyrics into the genre, creating Nasty Business. While some were shocked by the explicit content, Ridge views it as a tool to demand attention and open new doors for the genre.
But Nasty Business is only one piece of his artistic landscape. He has also introduced Love Bouyon, focusing on themes of love and heartbreak, offering a softer side of the genre. “It’s about bringing people into bouyon through different emotions,” he explains.
KARAYIB REFLECTIONS with Mr RIDGE
Karayib Reflections a webcast by Richès Karayib.
Karayib Reflections takes you into the hearts of those shaping our region. Through exclusive interviews, they share their journey, defining moments, and dreams for the Caribbean.
Subtitles are available in french.
Bridging the Caribbean through music
True to his name, Mr Ridge’s career exemplifies connection.
From performing with reggae legends in St. Martin to producing music in Guadeloupe, his collaborations span the Caribbean.
“If we can connect the islands culturally and musically, we’ll be unstoppable,” he says.
He encourages artists to mix bouyon with other genres, creating a sound that resonates globally while staying rooted in Caribbean traditions.
His vision extends beyond music.
Through collaborations and mentorship, Mr Ridge has fostered the growth of emerging bouyon artists, many of whom now perform internationally.
His work not only amplifies the genre but creates economic opportunities within Dominica.
Bouyon as a cultural and economic driver
Mr Ridge believes music can transform Dominica’s cultural tourism. Bouyon-centric events, such as his upcoming signature festival, attract visitors eager to experience the genre’s birthplace. “Tourists want to know where bouyon comes from and why it’s so infectious,” he says. This ripple effect strengthens the local economy, from hotel bookings to increased employment in the arts sector.
His influence has already been recognized on the global stage. Winning the Caribbean Music Award for bouyon marked a historic moment, earning the genre its first international accolade and opening new doors for Dominica’s cultural identity.
Advice for the next generation
For aspiring artists in the Caribbean, Mr Ridge emphasizes the importance of education and consistency. “Learn the business of music. Treat it like a job—work every day,” he advises. His own success is rooted in these principles, paired with an unwavering belief in his vision.
Vision for the future
Looking ahead, Mr Ridge plans to collaborate with artists across genres and islands, pushing bouyon to new heights. His dream? For bouyon to achieve the global recognition reggae enjoys. “It wasn’t just Bob Marley who made reggae great; it was a collective effort. Bouyon needs the same.”
The bridge to unity
Through his music, Mr Ridge embodies the spirit of connection, creativity, and resilience. As he continues to evolve bouyon and inspire new generations, his journey reminds us of the Caribbean’s boundless potential to shape the global cultural landscape. Its commitment to innovation and collaboration creates a momentum that strengthens Caribbean identity, while celebrating the diversity of musical voices. Mr. Ridge’s innovative approach inspires a new generation of artists to explore cultural opportunities. His passion for bridging musical styles creates a dynamic and transformative impact on Caribbean music.
