SKNinews

VON Radio bans Political Melee by Nutsy

The following press release was issued by the manager of Calypsonian Bernett “Nutsy” Thompson of Nevis after VON Radio banned his 2012 Nevis Culturama hit song called Political Melee:

Press Release

26 July 2012

Bernett Thompson of Brown Hill, Nevis, also known as ‘Nutsy’ in the calypso arena, is very disappointed that VON Radio chose to ban Political Melee, one of his songs for the 2012 Culturama festival.

 Mr. Dennison Roper, an employee of Von Radio, called Nutsy yesterday (25^th July) and told him that the radio station would not be playing Political Melee because it did not meet VON Radio’s ‘broadcast standards’.

Mr. Roper was asked to explain what particular aspect(s) of the song did not meet VON Radio’s ‘broadcast standards’ but he could not give any specific detail.

An email was also sent yesterday to Evered ‘Webbo’ Herbert, the General Manager of VON Radio explaining our disappointment with the decision to ban Political Melee. 

The email drew attention to the fact that Polical Melee is being played on other radio stations in the Federation, other Caribbean islands, the United States and the United Kingdom.  It has gotten rave reviews for its superb word craft and musical arrangement from many calypso pundits and also politicians in both CCM and NRP.

We implored Mr. Herbert to rethink the decision to ban the song and allow the voice of the people to be heard. However, we have not received a response from Mr. Herbert at the time of the issuance of this press release.

The banning of Political Melee may be perceived as an attack against freedom of expression and must be condemned by all.

ENDS