By Monique Washington
“Vibrations”, is the name of the first album by local artiste Andrew “Drew Dean” Williams, which was created to uplift people’s spirits during the Covid-19 pandemic. The album is being officially released today (Friday, October 22).
“Vibrations” is described as an eclectic mix of R&B/Soul, Afrobeats and Reggae, and could be dubbed as “Tropical Soul”. It is filled with songs for different occasions, covering themes of love, hope and inspiration.
Williams is a singer/songwriter and recording artist born in St. Kitts, with Nevisian and Jamaican heritage. He began singing in church from as early as age 4, and publicly, a little later. He was launched professionally as the artist “Drew Dean” in 2009 with the release of a three-song EP.
Williams has lived and performed in many Caribbean islands. He briefly attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and has collaborated with groups and artistes such as the Acappella Fellas, Sultry Sounds (BVI), Joss Stone, and more recently, he could be heard on the “We Got This” Caribbean collaboration produced by the Water Street Boyz, out of Barbados
Speaking with the Observer, Williams reflected that he wanted an album that would be uplifting in these challenging times.
“The idea to produce “Vibrations” came during the brunt of Covid-19, back in early 2020. There was and still is so much depression and uncertainty around that, I wanted to create music that lifts people’s spirits, while incorporating a distinct island/Caribbean vibe. It’s a feel-good album. There is something on “Vibrations” for everyone, so the target audience would simply be, music lovers worldwide.”
“This is my first full length album, but I’ve released three EPs and many singles previously. Right now I’m focused on promoting “Vibrations”, but I would also like to do a Christmas album, possibly for the 2022 season.”
He noted that there are a number of collaborations on the album which include: Infamus (St. Kitts), Jeremy Vanterpool on Saxophone (Virgin Islands), Duff Cosmic (USA) Venelle Powell (Nevis), C.Z.B (Nevis).
“Credit must also be given to Steve D. Whittaker of St. Kitts, who co-wrote a song.”
Williams said that the album was produced by various producers “all from different locations…Layird Music – Florida, Antoine Adams a.k.a Zaggadon – St. Kitts, Alann Ulises – Mexico, Sinky Beatz – Spain, BeatzbyDB and Ransom – UK. Mixing and mastering were done by myself.”
Williams encouraged others who are interested in music to pursue it out of love, and not wealth.
“I would encourage them to pursue music out of love, and not because it may seem like a way to become popular or wealthy. The road to success as an artiste or creative can be long and daunting, but genuine love and appreciation for your craft will keep you pushing through, regardless of the obstacles. I would also encourage them to utilize people and resources around them to help bring their projects to life.”
