Ras Mo

Ras Mo, whose real name was Desmond Delmance Marcel Moses, was a distinguished Caribbean artist known for his significant contributions to the performing arts and community engagement. He passed away on April 25, 2024, leaving a legacy as a cultural icon and elder.

Ras Mo’s Early Life and Education

Ras Mo began his journey in the arts at the tender age of five, engaging in hand drumming and mastering rhythms from the Eastern and French Creole Caribbean. His early exposure to diverse musical and cultural expressions shaped his future career in the arts and education.

Artistic Contributions

Ras Mo was a dynamic performance poet, master drummer, recording artist, composer, and theater director. His repertoire spanned across world music genres including reggae, hip-hop, and gospel, with his works predominantly in English and French Creole. He was considered one of the pioneers of performance poetry in the Caribbean.

Educational and Cultural Leadership

Throughout his career, Ras Mo worked as a cultural officer at the Division of Culture for several years, significantly influencing the local arts scene. He was deeply involved in educational initiatives, teaching from Pre-K to college levels, including Afro-Caribbean hand drumming classes at La Peña through the California Arts Council’s Artist in Residence programs and in the Music department at UC Berkeley.

Advocacy and Activism

Ras Mo used his art to advocate for social issues such as violence prevention, gender-based violence, and undoing sexism. His Pink and Blue Arts for Violence Prevention Project included performances and presentations against violence, highlighting his commitment to social change.

Contributions to Cultural Festivals

He regularly participated in major cultural festivals such as DOMFESTA and the Dominica Festival of Arts and was scheduled to play a significant role in the 2024 Africa Day celebrations. His performances were not limited to the stage; they extended into classrooms, youth and cultural centres, and festivals, reflecting his versatility and dedication to spreading cultural awareness.

Legacy and Recognition

Ras Mo’s impact on the arts and culture in Dominica and beyond was profound. He released several works, including three poetry books and two music albums, which continue to inspire and educate. Many remember his role as a cultural steward, especially in Dominica, where he was seen as a pillar of the community.

Awards and Honors

He received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Golden Drum Award, recognizing his lifelong contributions to the cultural landscape.

Death and Posthumous Recognition

The circumstances surrounding Ras Mo’s death remain unclear, but his loss has been deeply felt across the cultural community. Tributes have poured in from all corners, highlighting his role as a cultural stalwart and an icon of Afro-Caribbean heritage.