There is too much illegal duplication of the music of international artistes by Guyanese singers, says R&B singer Jerry Elcock who unwrapped his Christmas album before an appreciative crowd on Monday.
Elcock, himself a Guyanese singer, rose to fame after he made appearances in Brooklyn, New York and was spotted by some Guyanese living in America. On Monday evening, the Sidewalk Cafe resounded with his melodious voice as Elcock launched his Christmas album entitled 'The Joy of Christmas'.
By now the show had come alive and Elcock crooned another song, especially for all the lovers. "Always be in Love With You is from his new R&B CD that has not yet been released. He dedicated the song to all the married people in the audience and those who are in love.
The father of four then brought the audience to its feet when they heard the introduction of his song "Guyana's child".
He explained that this song was more like a dedication to Guyanese society as it reflected his life in Guyana, and how beautiful Christmas is here.
Elcock told members of the audience that other than the encouragement he received from Stan Gouveia, a disc jockey, he also felt compelled to come back to Guyana and share his talents with his Guyanese sisters and brothers. Elcock has been singing for almost all his life.
The former resident of Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo migrated to the US in 1976. He lived in Miami for one year then moved to Queens, New York.
Speaking to this newspaper after the show, he revealed that he `grew up' in the A.M.E Zion church on the East Bank Essequibo, singing with his older sisters and his father who played the guitar.
Elcock enjoys singing Jazz and R&B, but whenever he has an opportunity he sings Reggae, as he feels that reggae is a part of him.
He is now a member of two orchestras in New York: the 'Shyline' and 'Primetime' live groups.
Elcock has also been a background artiste for R&B singer Freddy Jackson and R&B producer, Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds.
During his visit here he is scheduled to meet President Bharrat Jagdeo and Opposition Leader, Robert Corbin. He is also expected to visit the children's ward of the Georgetown Public Hospital among many other activities.