Music of Montserrat - Definition and Overview

Montserrat is a dependency of the United Kingdom. Past pop stars include the soca bandleader Arrow, known for 1983's "Hot! Hot! Hot!". Calypso music is also popular. The influence of Irish traditions is apparent in Montserrat's symbols and heritage, especially the set dance-like Bam-chick-lay, and the presence of fife and drum ensembles similar to the bodhran. Natives are also witness to the Jumbie Dancers, whose style is still strongly African. Instruments include the ukulele (from Hawaii) and shak-shak, an African instrument made from a calabash gourd; both of these are used in string bands.

Air Studios, a recording studio operated by George Martin, used to be on the island, and performers like the Rolling Stones, Sting and Elton John traveled there to record. After Hurricane Hugo, however, the studios were closed. Martin organized a fundraiser for the island in 1997, which included native band Arrow, Mark Knopfler, Jimmy Buffett, Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, Sting and Elton John. Other local bands performed simulataneously at Gerald's Bottom on the island; the occasion also saw the reformation of Climax Blues Band and the appearance of Bankie Banks.