Artistes from across the region gathered at Antigua’s Holy Family Cathedral in Antigua on to honor the life of Ricardo Robert Barriteau Drue.
Among them were Trinidadian soca queen Destra Garcia, Bouyon Boss Asa Banton, St Lucian soca singer Teddyson John, and Barbadian soca sensation King Bubba. Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Culture Minister Daryll Matthew added an official touch to the emotional event.
Prime Minister Browne shared scripture, and Minister of Culture Daryl Matthew delivered the first address, expressing the collective grief.
Drue’s friends, affectionately known as ‘Broski’s,’ delivered heartfelt tributes.
Karim Harrigan praised Ricardo’s larger-than-life stage presence, while Teddyson John urged everyone to cherish their loved ones.
Skinny Fabulous struggled to encapsulate memories in three minutes but emphasized Ricardo’s unexpected caring nature. King Bubba promised to preserve Ricardo’s legacy, recalling their nine years of touring.
Ricardo’s sons shared touching anecdotes, and his mother, Nicola Barriteau, depicted him as a trailblazer. Nicola fondly remembered Ricardo’s childhood performances and highlighted his role as a devoted father to five children.
Born in 1985, Ricardo Drue passed away at 38, leaving behind a legacy that includes three soca monarch crowns in Antigua and Barbuda.
