Luc Vélinon, Celebrated Guyanese Singer, Dies at 93
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Luc Vélinon, the celebrated Guyanese singer whose voice captivated audiences with love songs, most notably the iconic “But I Love you,” has died.Vélinon, who rose too fame singing with the Edmond Antoine Edouard orchestra, passed away on February 20, 2025, in Cayenne.He was 93. His death marks the end of an era for Guyanese music and represents a profound loss for those who cherished his contributions to the nation’s cultural heritage. Vélinon’s impact extended beyond music; he was a sportsman, scout leader, and public servant.
Vélinon was more than just a singer; he was a multifaceted individual who left an indelible mark on various aspects of Guyanese society. As a former sportsman, he was a founding member of the Guyanese bicycle club, alongside Félix Daniel, Roland Bellony, and Maurice Buzaré. His commitment to community extended to his role as a former scout chief, instilling values of discipline and service in young people. Later in life, he served as the chief of the municipal police in Cayenne, demonstrating his dedication to public service.
A Voice for the Ages
It was his talent for singing that truly captured the hearts of Guyanese audiences. In an era dominated by yéyé music and romantic boleros, Luc Vélinon’s smooth, soothing voice was a perfect fit. His performances with the Edmond Antoine Edouard orchestra cemented his status as a star.
Raymond Charlery,a singer-songwriter who collaborated with Vélinon,expressed his deep sorrow at the news.
“This disappearance is for me, a big sorrow, a shock itself,”
charlery said.
Charlery further elaborated on their musical connection, stating,
Vélinon was a grate interpreter. It was a great vocal competition for me when we sang but in a very pleasant way and we were not many to sing.I was present when he recorded my song “But I love you”. The instrumental version had been highlighted by Edmond antoine Edouard. We were at Yvan Rollus when I proposed my text “But I love you”. This is how our friendship started. This title was taken up by other performers like Michel Barthès, Viviane Van Ky, Christian Sénélis and others.Luke was a great friend for whom I had a lot of respect, sympathy and we had warm exchanges. He also sang with the Théolad orchestra but did not do many scenes.”
Charlery’s words highlight not only Vélinon’s vocal talent but also his collaborative spirit and the respect he garnered within the music community. The song “But I love you”
became a signature piece, embraced by other artists and remaining a beloved classic.
Remembering a Legend
The impact of Luc Vélinon’s music continues to resonate with contemporary artists.Hendy Chocoho, the leader of the dokonon group, met Vélinon in November alongside conventional singer Jocelyne Porthos. Together, as a duet at Saint Adrien Hospital, thay performed the timeless “but I love you,”
bringing joy to patients and staff.
This performance was part of the “Retro Mélodie”
radio program, wich dedicated significant airtime to celebrating Luc Vélinon’s musical legacy. The program underscored the enduring appeal of his music and its importance in Guyanese cultural history.
Today, Hendy Chocoho and Dokonon continue to perform “But I love you,”
along with another 1960s Guyanese standard, “Shore of my dreams,”
ensuring that Vélinon’s music reaches new generations.
A Final Farewell
Luc Vélinon’s funeral will be held on February 27 at the Cayenne cemetery.His passing marks the end of a life dedicated to music, community, and service. He will be remembered as a talented singer, a dedicated public servant, and a cherished friend.
A Voice Silenced, a Legacy Enduring: Remembering Guyanese Icon Luc Vélinon
Did you know that the passing of Guyanese music legend Luc Vélinon marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations?
interviewer (Senior Editor, world-today-news.com): Dr. Anya Sharma, you’re a leading ethnomusicologist specializing in Caribbean musical traditions. Luc Vélinon’s recent passing has deeply impacted the Guyanese music scene. Can you tell us about his significance in Guyanese musical history?
Dr. Sharma: Luc Vélinon’s significance lies in his masterful blending of romantic boleros and the popular yéyé sounds that dominated the era, creating a uniquely Guyanese sound. He wasn’t just a singer; he was a storyteller weaving narratives of love and longing into his melodies. His vocal style, characterized by its smooth, soothing quality, set him apart, making him instantly recognizable and beloved.His contribution to the advancement of Guyanese popular music during a pivotal time merits significant study and recognition,illustrating the cultural exchange and adaptation of global musical styles within a specific regional context. This is crucial for understanding the evolution of Guyanese musical identity.
Interviewer: His collaboration with Raymond Charlery on the iconic song “But I Love You” is frequently mentioned. Can you shed light on the impact of this collaboration and the song’s lasting legacy?
Dr. Sharma: The collaboration between Vélinon and Charlery is a prime example of prosperous artistic synergy. “But I Love You” transcended its time, becoming a staple in the Guyanese musical repertoire. It’s a testament to the power of a well-crafted melody and heartfelt lyrics. The fact that it was later covered by other artists like Michel Barthès and Viviane Van Ky speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and its position in Guyanese popular culture. The song’s continued popularity, even among contemporary Guyanese artists, highlights its role as a cultural touchstone, demonstrating its sustained importance across generations. This sustained popularity shows the amazing impact of successful collaborations in shaping cultural heritage.
Interviewer: Beyond his musical career, Vélinon was a sportsman, scout leader, and public servant. How did these diverse roles contribute to his overall legacy?
Dr. Sharma: Vélinon’s multifaceted life showcased his dedication to his community and the wider Guyanese society. His involvement in sports, notably as a founding member of a bicycle club, reflects his active role in building community spirit and promoting physical well-being. His tenure as a scout leader underscores a commitment to nurturing young people and instilling positive values. His public service as a municipal police chief further highlights his dedication to the betterment of Cayenne and his enduring investment in civic engagement. These diverse roles demonstrate that his influence extended far beyond the stage, shaping various aspects of Guyanese society. They show a holistic approach to community engagement and leadership rarely witnessed in singular figures.
Interviewer: How does Vélinon’s musical legacy resonate with contemporary Guyanese artists?
Dr. Sharma: Vélinon’s influence is vividly apparent in contemporary Guyanese music. His iconic songs, like “But I Love You” and “shore of My Dreams”, continue to be covered and celebrated by younger generations. The fact that Hendy Chocoho and the Dokonon group perform “But I Love you” speaks volumes.This continued performance and adaptation demonstrates the enduring quality of his music and the resonance it holds even in drastically different socio-political climates. It’s a powerful example of how musical heritage continues to shape and inspire the artistic expression of subsequent generations. This underscores the enduring value and legacy of musical traditions that can serve as a bridge between generations.
Interviewer: What are some key takeaways from Vélinon’s life and career that future generations can learn from?
Dr. Sharma:
The power of collaborative artistry: Vélinon’s success stems partly from his collaborations; partnerships frequently enough lead to creative breakthroughs.
The enduring impact of quality music: Vélinon’s songs remain popular, proving that well-crafted music transcends time.
Community engagement’s importance: Vélinon’s contributions to sports, scouting, and public service illustrate a commitment to broader societal well-being.
The value of versatility: Vélinon’s varied roles illustrate the strength of diverse skills and the ability to positively impact various spheres of life.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for sharing your expertise and insights into the life and legacy of Luc Vélinon. His contribution to Guyanese music and culture will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
Closing: luc Vélinon’s story transcends mere musical accomplishment.His life represents a testament to the power of art, community engagement, and unwavering dedication to service. What are your thoughts on his enduring legacy? Share your comments below or join the conversation on social media!