News
News
Michele Henderson returns to London to celebrate Dominica’s Independence Day
The heart of Dominica comes to Soul Mama at the end of the month for two unique shows
After lighting up Soul Mama’s stage last summer with two triumphant sold-out shows, Dominican powerhouse Michele Henderson makes her highly anticipated return to London with two exclusive concerts in honour of Dominica’s 47th Independence Day on Friday 31 of October and Saturday 1 of November.
As the 28th of October also marks the International Creole Day (proclaimed by UNESCO) celebrated throughout the month, audiences can expect a vibrant atmosphere with two unforgettable nights with a fusion of musical magic, traditional dance and cultural activities (in association with the Dominica High Commission); and all, of course, whilst enjoying the full taste of Caribbean food at Soul Mama.
Born in Dominica, Michele Henderson was raised in a musical family from the village of Grand Bay, famously known as the cultural capital of the island. Destined for the stage, she began performing at a very young age; and at 15 joined the jazz band “impact!” as a lead singer and flautist. With her powerful vocals, expressive flute playing and commanding stage presence; she gained recognition in Jazz and Calypso music before launching a flourishing solo career.
With hits including ‘Inspiré’, ‘Pas Lesse Mwen’, Henderson made her mark across the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique, topping the Zouk charts in France, and solidifying her reputation as one of the most distinctive voices in the Caribbean.
To date, the award-winning singer/songwriter has released six albums and one DVD. She is known for fusing a kaleidoscope of styles from Jazz to Cadence-lypso, Zouk, Creole Soul to R&B, Reggae, and Calypso, into a sound that’s her own which makes her incredibly versatile.
Michele Henderson’s international career has seen her share stage with many notable artists such as Green Day, Foo Fighters, Third World, Nestor Torres, Taylor Dayne, Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Mark Isham and Doug E. Fresh, among others.
Henderson has carried Dominica’s unique rhythm and vibrant musical heritage to global audience at festivals Roskilde Festival (Denmark), Antillianse Feesten (Belgium), Imatra Big Band Festival (Finland), Jazz Artists on the Green and Jazz on the Hill festivals in Trinidad and Virgin Gorda, St Lucia Jazz Festival, Grenada Spice Jazz Festival and of course Dominica’s world-renowned World Creole Music Festival.
Beyond her musical achievements, Michele is actively involved in philanthropic and civic roles, holding leadership roles advocating for culture, music education, and social issues; serving as the official Goodwill Ambassador of Dominica. In 2014, she composed ‘Celebrating CARICOM’ now the official anthem of the CARICOM (Caribbean Community); and in 2022, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Dominica Music Awards in 2022.
Now, London audiences have the rare chance to experience the Caribbean Icon live, proudly celebrating her homeland and bringing the heart of Creole culture through song and cultural pride. Vini pou célébré Dominik! (Come and celebrate Dominica!)
Michele Henderson plays Soul Mama in London on October 31 and November 1. Find tickets here
