Belize Honors Andy Palacio on His 64th Birthday with Celebrations and Remembrance

Belize remembers the great musical icon, Andy Palacio, who would have turned sixty-four years old today.  Vivian Andy Palacio, one of Belize’s most renowned Garifuna musicians, was born in Barranco Village, Toledo District. Even though Andy loved music from a very young age, his greatest passion was educating others, so his first profession was teaching. As a result of this, Andy was a part of the Teachers Brigade who went to the Garifuna communities in Nicaragua. Andy officially launched his musical career in 1981 and released several albums, including Nabi, Keimoun and Til Da Mawnin. In honor of his birthday, there will be a mass held at St.Martin De Porres today at 6pm. Love News spoke with Melissa Zuniga, the Secretary of the National Garifuna Council Belize City Branch on the festivities.

 He worked in the Belizean creative arts industry as Belize’s Cultural Ambassador and Deputy Administrator of the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH), whilst sharing the Garifuna culture, language, and music with the world. His last and most acclaimed album, Watina was an immense source of joy and pride for Andy.  Zuniga expressed gratitude towards Palacio’s contributions to the Garifuna Community. 

Regrettably, Andy transitioned to Seiri (heaven) on January 19, 2008, six weeks after his 47th birthday. He left behind a rich legacy of songs, compositions, accolades including the UNESCO Artist for Peace, Women Award, BBC3 Awards for World Music award in the Americas Category, Garifuna Cultural Ambassador,