Fitzroy Williams

Fitzroy Williams, a distinguished Dominican musician, was born in 1950 in the village of Massacre, Dominica. From an early age, he exhibited a profound passion for music, often creating instruments from everyday objects like butter and condensed milk tins to emulate drums. This inventive spirit led him to explore various musical avenues during his formative years.

Fitzroy Williams Early Life and Education

Williams’ musical journey began in his hometown, where he immersed himself in the local music scene. He attended St. Mary’s Academy in Roseau, where he joined the “glee club” and participated in talent shows, activities that encouraged him to pursue a career in music.

Musical Career

• Initial Endeavors: Williams’ versatility extended to various instruments, including the rhythm guitar and xylophone. During his early years, he played with several bands, such as Security Pearls, Los Caballeros, and De Boys & Dem. His role in these groups involved arranging music, a responsibility that honed his skills and deepened his commitment to a professional music career.
• Exile One: In 1969, Williams co-founded Exile One alongside Gordon Henderson. The band became instrumental in developing the Cadence Lypso genre, a fusion of cadence and calypso rhythms. Williams’ expertise with the organ and synthesizer contributed significantly to the band’s distinctive sound, leading to international acclaim and influencing the evolution of Caribbean music.

Personal Life and Legacy

Williams’ dedication to music was paralleled by his foresight in planning for life beyond the stage. He meticulously managed his career to ensure financial stability, securing pensions and royalties that allowed him to enjoy a comfortable life post-retirement. Despite his international engagements, Williams maintained a deep connection to Dominica, spending the majority of his time on the island.

His contributions to music were formally recognized in 2013 when he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the World Creole Music Festival. This honor emphasised his influence on Dominica’s cultural landscape and his role in promoting Creole music globally.

Fitzroy Williams passed away on March 10, 2025, in Martinique after a prolonged illness. His legacy endures through his pioneering work in cadence-lypso and his impact on the global appreciation of Caribbean music.

Williams’ music continues to inspire and influence artists within Dominica and across the Caribbean.