Culture is Currency, Says Music Producer Eddie Prynze Duberry-Allen

Caribbean music producer and arranger, Eddie Prynze Duberry-Allen, has sounded an urgent wake-up call to artistes, promoters, organisations, and governments in the Caribbean about the revenue (business and national economic) potential of the region’s music sector.

In a scholarly commentary titled ‘Culture is Currency’, he argues that many Caribbean artistes and their respective countries are ‘shortchanging’ themselves.

As a producer, Prynze speaks from a position of knowledge and authority. His impressive and extensive client list includes many of the region’s top soca and zouk stars.

In the comprehensive document, he addresses issues under the headings of: The Creative Wealth of a People, Education and Cultural Infrastructure, Creative Business Training, Cultural Incubators, Museums and Archives, Recording Studios and Government Grants.

“The Caribbean therefore needs stronger systems for creative business training. Educational institutions, governments, and private organizations should develop programs focused specifically on the economics of culture,” he urges.

Montserrat-born Prynze says artistes must learn how to manage intellectual property, build sustainable brands, negotiate contracts, market digital content, and access international markets.

“Professionalizing the creative sector does not weaken authenticity. It strengthens sustainability.”

He also makes the point that “If the Caribbean wishes to build sustainable creative economies, then education and cultural infrastructure must become central parts of national development strategies.”

Read the full paper here Culture Is Currency.Eddie Prynze Duberry-Allendocx (1)