Under her leadership, J’Ouvert City International has preserved one of New York City’s most significant Caribbean traditions, while advancing community-centered safety practices and ensuring that the legacy of mas, music, and steelpan remains visible, valued, and protected. Her work speaks not only to the preservation of culture, but to the power of organizing: fostering partnerships with city agencies, cultural institutions, and grassroots leaders across generations.

In a brief message shared online, Ms. Rennie wrote:

“I have been chosen to be one of the Honorees for my contributions in the communities at large. Thanks CACCI.”

We congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.

—

About CACCI
The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (CACCI), founded in 1985, is a statewide membership organization that provides business assistance to small and start-up owners in business planning, financing, certification, procurement, and trade opportunities. Through a partnership with the NYC Department of Small Business Services, CACCI supports MWBEs in scaling their operations and accessing public contracts, while continuing to spotlight the social, economic, and cultural contributions of Caribbean Americans across New York.

Held at the St. Jude Community Center in Brooklyn, the evening reflected JCI’s continued commitment to recognizing and uplifting the people who sustain this cultural tradition year after year.

Celebrating 2024’s Contributions to J’Ouvert

This year’s theme, “Rekindle the Sweetness of Calypso and Soca – Showcasing the Rich Heritage of Storytelling Globally”, set the tone for an event that honored the music, masquerade, and meaning behind every performance.

Awards were presented to the top-ranking Masbands, Steelbands, and Rhythm Bands from J’Ouvert 2024, with standout performances by groups like Philly Pan Stars, Kutters, 2 J & Friends, and King Jab & Friends. The results reflect not only artistry and execution, but also the cultural depth and dedication that define the early morning hours of J’Ouvert.

The gala also paid tribute to a group of celebrated Calypso and Soca icons who served as 2024 Grand Marshals and Cultural Ambassadors, including Dr. Witty, Natasha Wilson, DJ Rolls Royce, Denise Belfon, and others who have carried the music forward in New York and beyond.

Twelve Phenomenal Women in Steelpan

A highlight of the evening was the formal recognition of Twelve Phenomenal Women in the Steelband Community, musicians, mentors, and cultural stewards whose behind-the-scenes work has shaped generations of J’Ouvert sound:

Annette Chacon, Nyasha Rhoden, Cheryl Williams, Pearl Jones, Ingrid Samuels, Colette Baptiste, Kathleen Trebuse, Sherma McMillan, Gwynn Glasgow, Lillian Nicholas, Hyacinth Meade, and Zion Alexis.

Each woman honored represents a lineage of excellence and dedication within a musical tradition that is both technical and deeply communal.

Looking Ahead

The evening was not just about recognition, it was also a celebration of the collective work required to carry this culture forward. With support from elected officials, clergy, community organizations, and cultural leaders, J’Ouvert City International continues to lead the effort to preserve the art and history of J’Ouvert in Brooklyn.

Special thanks were extended to the elected officials who offered their support, including Mayor Eric Adams; Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso; Congresswoman Yvette Clarke; Assemblymembers Monique Chandler-Waterman and Brian Cunningham; Councilmembers Farah N. Louis, Mercedes Narcisse, Rita Joseph, and Chi Ossé; Senators Zellnor Myrie and Kevin Parker; and Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams.

JCI also recognized the dedicated panel of judges who helped make this year’s awards possible: Dr. Winsome Davidson, Annette Alston, Carlton Joseph, Shaneek King, Janelle Young, Glenis Thomas, and Brian Weekes.

View the official 2024 J’Ouvert results here

The Birth of Trinidad Steelband

In 1949, Rudy King formed the Trinidad Steelband, marking the introduction of steel pan music to New York City. This was a groundbreaking achievement, as the steel pan was a relatively new instrument at the time, having only been developed a few years earlier in Trinidad and Tobago. King’s steelband brought the vibrant sounds of the Caribbean to the streets of New York, captivating audiences and laying the foundation for the growth of steel pan music in the United States.

A Pioneer of Pan Culture

Rudy King’s work with the Trinidad Steelband helped establish steel pan music as a central element of Caribbean cultural celebrations in New York. His band played at various events, parades, and parties, spreading the infectious rhythms of the pan and introducing countless people to this unique sound.

King’s influence extended beyond just performances. He was a key figure in the early development of steel pan culture in New York, mentoring younger musicians and helping to establish the steelband as a respected and integral part of Caribbean music in the diaspora.

Rudy King’s legacy as a pioneer of steel pan music in New York is undeniable. His work laid the groundwork for future generations of pan players and enthusiasts, ensuring that this vibrant and powerful form of musical expression would continue to thrive in the diaspora. Through his contributions, King helped shape the cultural landscape of New York, bringing the sounds of the Caribbean to the forefront and enriching the city’s diverse musical heritage.

From Harlem to Brooklyn

In the late 1960s, New York City’s Caribbean community faced a significant challenge when the permit for the Harlem Carnival parade was revoked in 1964. Determined to keep the tradition alive, Carlos Lezama stepped forward to lead the effort to relocate the parade. In 1969, under Lezama’s leadership, a new committee was formed, eventually becoming the West Indian-American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA). This committee successfully obtained a permit to hold the parade on Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, where it has flourished ever since.

The move to Brooklyn marked the beginning of a new era for New York’s Carnival. With its expansive space and diverse community, Eastern Parkway became the perfect stage for the vibrant and colorful parade, attracting participants and spectators from across the city and beyond.

Building a Cultural Legacy

Carlos Lezama’s impact on the West Indian Day Parade extended far beyond logistics. He was a passionate advocate for preserving the cultural heritage of the Caribbean diaspora in New York. Under his leadership, the parade grew into a major event that not only celebrated Caribbean culture but also served as a platform for social and political expression.

Lezama’s dedication to the Carnival and the Caribbean community earned him widespread respect and admiration. Through his efforts, the West Indian Day Parade became more than just a festive event—it became a powerful symbol of Caribbean identity and pride in New York City.

A Lasting Influence

Carlos Lezama passed away in 2007 at the age of 83, but his legacy lives on through the West Indian Day Parade, which continues to draw millions of participants and spectators each year. The parade, now a staple of New York City’s cultural calendar, is a testament to Lezama’s vision and leadership. It stands as a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture and a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural traditions in the diaspora.

Lezama’s contributions to the West Indian Day Parade have left an indelible mark on New York City, ensuring that the spirit of Carnival continues to thrive in Brooklyn for generations to come.

The Birth of Carnival in Harlem

In 1924, Jessie Waddell took the first steps toward establishing a Caribbean Carnival in New York. Missing the lively celebrations of Trinidad’s Carnival, she began hosting indoor masquerade balls in Harlem. These events, held in venues like the Renaissance, Savoy, and Audubon Ballrooms, featured vibrant costumes and music, offering a taste of the Caribbean Carnival experience. Waddell, a musician herself, played a significant role in these events, often performing with her ten-piece orchestra, Nu-Tones, to bring the music of Carnival to life.

The First Outdoor Parade

Recognizing the limitations of indoor celebrations, Waddell sought to bring Carnival outdoors, where the spirit of the event could truly thrive. In 1947, she obtained the first permit from then-Mayor James O’Dwyer to stage an outdoor Carnival parade in Harlem. This marked a significant milestone in the history of Caribbean culture in New York. The parade route, which reportedly ran either along Lennox Avenue or Seventh Avenue, brought the vibrant colors, music, and energy of Carnival to the streets, captivating both participants and onlookers.

Waddell’s efforts didn’t stop there. In 1948, she registered the first formal organization for hosting the Carnival, known as the West Indies Day Association. This organization laid the groundwork for what would eventually become one of the most significant cultural events in New York City.

The Legacy Continues

Despite the revocation of the Harlem parade permit in 1964, Jessie Waddell’s influence on New York’s Carnival was far from over. The spirit she ignited continued to burn brightly, leading to the establishment of the West Indian-American Day Carnival Association by Carlos Lezama in 1969. The parade was relocated to Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, where it remains a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, attracting millions of participants and spectators each year.

Jessie Waddell returned to Trinidad later in life and passed away in 1975, but her legacy as the pioneer of New York’s Carnival lives on. Her vision and determination brought the Caribbean’s most joyous celebration to the streets of New York, creating a lasting cultural tradition that continues to thrive to this day.

We are thrilled to share that J’Ouvert City’s “J’Ouvert in NYC & The Evolution of Steelpan,” was featured during this celebration. This video, a tribute to the enduring spirit and creativity of the Caribbean people, takes viewers on a journey through the history of J’Ouvert in New York City and the evolution of the steelpan from its origins in Tamboo Bamboo to the modern-day instrument we know and love. It highlights the contributions of legendary steelband leaders, celebrates the role of women in steelpan, and honors the vibrant steelbands that fill the streets of New York every year.

You can watch the video below and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds that define J’Ouvert and the steelpan tradition.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the creation of this video, including Yvette Rennie, Nataki Yeeloy, Keith Getter, William Farrington, and J’Ouvert City International.

Join us in celebrating our culture, preserving our heritage, and keeping the spirit of J’Ouvert alive in New York City.

When we talk about the rich history of J’Ouvert in Brooklyn, one name that always stands out is Earl King. A true champion of the steel pan, Earl King dedicated his life to preserving the authentic sounds and spirit of J’Ouvert, ensuring that this tradition stayed true to its roots while growing in the diaspora.

A Passion for Steel Pan

Earl King’s love affair with the steel pan began in Trinidad, where the instrument originated. For King, the steel pan wasn’t just an instrument—it was a symbol of cultural pride and resilience. When he moved to Brooklyn, he brought his passion with him, determined to keep the steel pan at the heart of J’Ouvert celebrations.

In a time when DJs and amplified music were taking over, King was determined to preserve the acoustic, live sound of the steel pan. He knew that this was the soul of J’Ouvert, and he wanted to make sure that it didn’t get lost in the noise.

Founding J’Ouvert City International

In 1994, Earl King co-founded J’Ouvert City International with Yvette Rennie. Together, they transformed J’Ouvert from a small, informal gathering into a major event that draws tens of thousands of people every year. King’s vision was simple but powerful: keep J’Ouvert real by sticking to the tradition of “pan and rhythm only.”

This commitment to authenticity earned King widespread respect in the community. Under his leadership, J’Ouvert became a celebration where the sounds of steel pan and the energy of the streets came together to create something truly special.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Earl King’s influence didn’t stop with organizing J’Ouvert. He was deeply committed to teaching the next generation about the steel pan, passing on his knowledge and love for the instrument to young people in the community. He knew that for the culture to survive, it had to be passed on, and he made sure that happened.

Even after his passing, Earl King’s legacy lives on in every note played by a steel pan during J’Ouvert. His work ensured that J’Ouvert would remain a true celebration of Caribbean culture, where the music, the people, and the spirit of the event stayed true to their roots.

As we celebrate J’Ouvert each year, we remember Earl King as more than just a musician or organizer. He was a cultural guardian, someone who understood the importance of preserving the heart and soul of J’Ouvert for future generations. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of tradition and the importance of keeping our cultural heritage alive.

Born in Belmont, east Port of Spain, Roy grew up surrounded by the rhythms and rituals of Trinidad Carnival. That early exposure shaped his aesthetic sensibility and sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling through costume. After migrating to New York City in 1966, he became a quiet force in the Brooklyn mas scene, first playing on Eastern Parkway in the 1970s, and later turning his full attention to the pre-dawn tradition of J’Ouvert.

From 1993 onward, Roy Pierre & Associates brought meticulously crafted bands to the streets each Labor Day. Early presentations like “Afrocentric” (1993) set the tone for what would follow: costume portrayals that were unapologetically intellectual, full of references to history, folklore, and global Black identity. Later bands included “Let Dem Eat Cake,” “The Governor’s Ball,” and “Havana Nights.”

Their 2016 portrayal, “The Jolly Roger”, saw pirates and mermaids converge with Caribbean flair, while “All Hands on Deck” (2018) paid tribute to the King Sailor tradition—melding classic forms with new cultural references. In 2019, they presented one of their most striking works, “The Kente Kingdom,” an African-inspired band celebrating ancestral lineage through robes, beadwork, and the mythical geometry of Ghanaian kente cloth.

What made Roy’s work resonate wasn’t scale or spectacle—it was intention. Each portrayal functioned as both design statement and cultural critique, often leaning into metaphor and irony to challenge, delight, and teach.

Roy Pierre & Associates won Band of the Year more than 17 times, but the awards were never the point. The real achievement was the body of work—a catalog of portrayals that raised the bar for craftsmanship and deepened the cultural narrative of J’Ouvert.

Since the pandemic, Roy has quietly stepped away from the Brooklyn scene and is now enjoying retirement in Trinidad. His departure marks the end of an era, but his influence is embedded in the visual DNA of the celebration. Through costumes that honored the past while pushing the form forward, Roy Pierre helped show the world what mas could be.

“Roy Pierre & Associates present ‘The Kente Kingdom,’” Caribbean Life, August 9, 2019.

“Roy Pierre & Associates say it’s ‘All Hands on Deck!,’” Caribbean Life, July 31, 2018.

Andres O’Hara, “A Peek Inside The Elaborate Preparations For J’Ouvert 2018,” Gothamist, August 27, 2018.

From Community Organizer to Cultural Leader

Yvette Rennie began her journey as a community organizer, deeply involved in promoting Caribbean culture in Brooklyn. She was the founder of the “Prestige Committee,” where she organized a J’Ouvert competition on Flatbush Avenue. Her dedication to the event and her community led her to join forces with Earl King in 1984, when J’Ouvert City International was incorporated. Initially serving as the Public Relations Officer, Rennie played a key role in shaping the organization and its mission.

Over the years, Rennie’s role evolved, and she became the President of J’Ouvert City International. Under her leadership, J’Ouvert has grown into one of the most anticipated cultural events in Brooklyn, attracting thousands of participants who celebrate with music, dance, and vibrant costumes.

A Champion of Tradition and Safety

Yvette Rennie’s vision for J’Ouvert has always been rooted in a deep respect for tradition. She has worked tirelessly to ensure that J’Ouvert stays true to its cultural roots, particularly by upholding the tradition of featuring steel pan music and traditional mas bands, rather than allowing amplified music to take over.

But Rennie’s contributions go beyond cultural preservation. She has been instrumental in making J’Ouvert a safer event, especially in response to incidents of violence that have threatened the celebration. By collaborating with community leaders, law enforcement, and city officials, Rennie has helped implement safety measures that protect both participants and spectators while maintaining the spirit of J’Ouvert.

A Lasting Impact

Yvette Rennie’s work has had a profound impact on the J’Ouvert community in Brooklyn. Her leadership has ensured that J’Ouvert remains a vibrant, culturally significant event that honors the traditions of the Caribbean diaspora while adapting to the changing landscape of the city.

Under her guidance, J’Ouvert has not only survived but thrived, becoming a powerful expression of Caribbean identity and culture. Rennie’s commitment to preserving the integrity of J’Ouvert while promoting safety and inclusivity has left an indelible mark on the community.

As we look forward to future J’Ouvert celebrations, we recognize Yvette Rennie’s invaluable contributions. Her work reminds us that cultural heritage is something to be cherished and protected, and her leadership continues to inspire those who are committed to celebrating and preserving the rich traditions of J’Ouvert.

Origins and Evolution of J’Ouvert

Roots in Trinidad
J’Ouvert, the vibrant pre-dawn festival marking the start of Carnival, is a cornerstone of Caribbean culture. Originating in Trinidad, it began as a celebration of emancipation, with freed slaves transforming the somber Canboulay processions into a joyous celebration of freedom. The name J’Ouvert, from the French ‘jour ouvert’ meaning ‘daybreak,’ symbolizes a new beginning. Participants would take to the streets with steel pan music, colorful costumes, and lively dances, creating an atmosphere of exuberance and cultural pride.

The Caribbean Diaspora in NYC
In the 1940s, the spirit of J’Ouvert made its way to New York City, carried by Trinidadian immigrants who longed to keep their cultural traditions alive. Initially, small gatherings in Harlem brought together those who missed the familiar rhythms and festivities of their homeland. As the Caribbean community in New York grew, so did the celebration. The festival began to move beyond Harlem, reflecting the broader migration patterns of the Caribbean diaspora throughout the city.

J’Ouvert Finds a Home in Brooklyn
By the late 20th century, Brooklyn had become the epicenter of J’Ouvert in North America. Spearheaded by community leaders and cultural advocates, the festival in Brooklyn grew in size and significance, becoming an integral part of the West Indian American Day Carnival celebrations. For over 37 years, J’Ouvert City International has organized the event, ensuring that it remains true to its roots while adapting to its new urban context.

Brooklyn’s Annual Celebration
Today, J’Ouvert in Brooklyn is a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Caribbean community. Starting in the early hours before dawn, the streets come alive with music, dance, and vibrant costumes. Thousands of participants gather to celebrate their heritage, turning the city into a colorful tapestry of Caribbean culture. The festival is not just a parade but a powerful expression of cultural identity and historical reflection. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the Caribbean people, maintaining the traditions of the past while embracing the dynamic present.

Cultural Significance and Impact
J’Ouvert’s celebration in Brooklyn is more than an event; it’s a cultural movement. It highlights the contributions of the Caribbean community to the city’s cultural landscape and fosters a sense of unity and pride. The festival also serves as a platform for addressing social issues, promoting community engagement, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean diaspora.

Conclusion
The evolution of J’Ouvert from Trinidad to Brooklyn reflects the journey of the Caribbean people and their unwavering commitment to preserving and celebrating their culture. As we continue to explore its history and impact, we invite you to delve deeper into the other sections of our website, where we spotlight significant figures, the global spread of J’Ouvert, and its cultural impact.