Guestbook Page 5
From: Debbie [...]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Wednesday, April 13, 2005 1:20 PM
Subject: Concert
Hi Slingshot,
My group heard you are doing a concert for St. Ann Girls’ and Plaisance
Boy’s Orphanage when you come for the Independence Anniversary Parade on
May 26. What is the date of the concert? Would it be at Culture Center?
We are a dance group. So, we want you to visit us and see for yourself.
If you like what you see, can we join you to entertain the orphans?
Please phone me at […]
Your friend
Debbie
From: Asif [...]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Tuesday, April 12, 2005 10:33 PM
Subject: Slingshot and Guyana
username: asifderebel@aol.com
url: http://www.derebel.com
country: USA
comments: Hey padna, how things, I always listen to you in Guyana, they
always have a few Slingshot songs on channel two in the morning. Keep
making the good music, and most of all keep representing the Guyanese
people, the real Guyanese people.
From: Gunny [...]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Sunday, April 10, 2005 11:33 AM
Subject: Slingshot's Website
username: lesliegunny@techie.com
city: Ardsley
state: Westchester NY
country: USA
comments: Nice site. Keep up the good work.
From: Olive […]
To: John DrePaul
Sent: Sunday, April 10, 2005 9:28 AM
Subject: Your DVDs & CDs
[…] we were too busy watching your DVDs and listening to your music ...
man, oh man ... it was a rare treat ... my friend, I keep telling you
... you are a humble multi-talented person, and now that I've seen and
heard your work and music, I have even more respect for you ...
Let me not forget to mention that I (we) feel honored to be your and
Ingrid's friends.
I also have to congratulate Ingrid on her co-writing of the lyrics
because they are wonderful and have such depth ... you go girl...!
Thanks ... and my love to Ingrid, the girls and Little John.
Enjoy your Sunday ... remember all work and no play might make John a
dull boy.
From: Geoffrey Phillips […]
To: slingshot@tropicalwaves.net
Sent: Saturday, April 09, 2005 1:44 AM
Subject: friendly message.
Sling shot.
I have not heard from you a long time, since we did the song in the
studio, Kross Color.
What have you been doing all this time my friend? I was placed third in
the calypso contest behind V,J. and Tempest.
You would have created quite a stir if you were here and Mashramani had
taken place with folks jumping to your song Pirates. But, due to the
flood, everything went up in flames.
Drop me a line Buddy, I am hoping to hear from you soon.
Your friend,
Geoffrey Phillips (Mighty Rebel)
From: Jameela […]
To: John DrePaul
Sent: Friday, April 08, 2005 12:19 PM
Subject: Re: sling bhai
I read your profile, you've made something of yourself that no one can
take and I'm very proud of you Sling or should I say John. Life can be
very tough---but I'm so glad you didn't give up! I'm sure your family is
proud of the person you are today.
keep up the good work and I hope to see one of your videos soon.
I will send pic of me and my girls soon! Don't have it scanned at work.
Jam
From: John Harricharan […]
To: Slingshot
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2005 3:27 PM
Subject: For john D from John H -- it's good to be in touch again
Hi John:
It was delightfully refreshing to receive your email. For a while, I
thought I had lost contact with you. Although I rarely post on Wayne's
board, I have followed your comments and find that they are very well
thought out and that you are a master artist painting pictures with
words and music. I commend you.
I have also noticed the wonderful work you're doing and want to tell you
that I am very proud of all you do. "Pirates" have always been one of my
favorite themes. I recall the subtle smile on my face when I read about
Coco's Pirates :-)
Keep up the great work, John, and may success lead to greater success,
peace, joy, prosperity and all good things.
I have been very busy recently. I'll be at Yanik's seminar in
Washington, D.C. end of this month as one of his special guests (www.undergoundonlineseminar).
[…]
I still hope we can get to meet one of these days. I have always felt a
sense of destiny about you and I am sure you're following the path that
will lead to the fulfillment of said destiny. You are a very special
person, John. Let your gifts shine, ever so gently, ever so beautifully
on all whose lives you touch.
Let's keep in touch more often. I'd hate to lose contact again with such
a special soul like you.
Warmest regards.
John
From: "Holly" […]
To: Slingshot
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2005 7:10 PM
Subject: Hello
Hello Slingshot………
I just want to let you know that I see your videos on TV here in Guyana
everyday. […]
I live in Lusignan, WCD, and love your music. But I love your videos the
most. I hope oneday to see you perform in a concert at our centre.
[…]
Bye-bye……
Holly
From: "Moses Singh" [...]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2005 11:00 AM
Subject: Website
username: MosSingh@optonline.net
city: North Babylon
state: New York
country: USA
comments: Slingly,
Great site...catch up with you later.
Mose
From: "Jameela Yasseen" […]
To: Slingshot
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2005 1:37 PM
Subject: sling bhai
Sling... see you're very busy. I'm at work and busy too.
[…]
I listened to this song [Tanzania]. It's really nice! I'm sure the
people from Tanzania will love it. Best of luck and wishes for your safe
return!
I actually visited your website this morning and see you're a very
talented person. Also see you're from No. 63. I'm from No. 78 […] when
you left Guyana I wasn't even born.
I will visit your website again soon […]
Jam
From: "C. Rambali" […]
To: Slingshot
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2005 1:09 AM
Subject: Your new song ‘TANZANIA’
HI Doc,
You are a genius…!
This song is beautiful...!
Well done, my good man…!
This song will be well received and will even propel you to heights
unimaginable, and, to your humble heart, will be slingshot"s household
hit.
Talk to me bro…!
Carl.
From: "Gloria" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Saturday, April 02, 2005 1:10 PM
Subject: Hi Slingshot
Hi Slingshot … how are you? Are you coming to Guyana soon? If so, can
you say when?
I am trying to get in touch with Topgun Hopkinson to do some volunteer
work for your PIRATES Band. Can you tell him to get in touch with me at
[…]?
Slingshot, we really love that song “Pirates”. Tell Ingrid she did a
really good job backing you. Is she and Annabelle coming in May? I want
to bring my 12 year old daughter to the Float Parade. She can be with
Annabelle while you and Ingrid bruk dem up pon de road…….! (laugh)
Must tell Hopkinson to get in touch, okay?
And tell Ingrid I send kisses for Annabelle and she.
From your dearest, dearest friend
Gloria
From: "Lilly Narine" […]
To: Slingshot
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2005 11:19 PM
Subject: Pirates
Dear Slingshot,
How can I join your band Pirates?
I hear the song almost daily on the radio.
But I love “Home Sweet Home”. It nice to dance.
I live on the East Bank but work in Georgetown at […]
Who do I see to get a costume?
You can write me back or phone me at work at […]
Bye, Slingshot!
Lilly
From: "Ravi" […]
To: "Slingshot" <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Tuesday, March 30, 2005 11:34 AM
Subject: buying your music
[…] your songs will definitely bring back memories for my family!
Originally my mother is from Berbice - #70 village- I was born in
England but I was there last year ... chillin’ on # 63 Beach!!
Just tried phoning Robert… guess he has already left. Tell him to bring
back nuff new (and old tunes) and I will buy some off him.
Where are your performances in UK going to be?
I am based in Manchester and am also a DJ/ club promoter here. There is
not many Guyanese/ Indo Caribbean people here though plenty of Jamaicans
and true-true Indians.
I mainly play RNB/ English/ Indian / Bhangra music but want to start
introducing some Soca & Chutney vibes into the night as well… Don't know
how people will react but once I have built up a collection will be able
to judge reaction!
Ravi
From: "Parbudyal Singh" [...]
To: <cocoreef@bellsouth.net>
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2005 1:33 AM
Subject: [Slingshot's Musical Videos]
Hey Coco,
I should be in town - remind me a few days before you land.
By the way, we had some guests over for the weekend and guess who we
listened to/watched? YOU!
I asked them (about 10 adults) about their general impressions about the
music, scenes, etc, and here is a summary of their views (that I share):
1. It is excellent stuff
2. They felt nostalgic
3. The older folks liked the slower songs more than the younger people
4. One scene when you were going on to the Berbice ferry was a bit
"jumpy" - can be tidied up
5. The racial mix of the participants was very good (someone mentioned
that the Xmas scene with the family in GT should have shown more
diversity but I do not think you can change that; the older lady in the
kitchen was particularly good, by the way)
6. A few felt that at times you could have showed more scenes from
Guyana (sorry...this would mean "less of you":-))
7. All felt that you can "really sing" and "how come they have not heard
about you before"? […]
The bottom line is that we loved the songs.
Say hi to Ingrid and the kid. I hope we can all catch-up in Toronto.
Best wishes,
Parb.
From: "Patrick Barkoye" […]
To: "guyanese discussion list"
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2005 10:04 PM
Subject: [WGML] Slingshot will be in "Guyana" Concert - great
The Concert for Guyana-Tampa will be fourth concert in the series. The
Concert for Guyana-Tampa is attracting many world-class entertainers.
Among them are: The Tradewinds, John "Slingshot" Drepaul; The Phase II
Band from Toronto, Canada; Chesley Rolle, Creig Comacho, Winston Duggin,
The Paul Brothers, Jimmy Ray, Mickey Dee, Ray Seales, and Hip Hop
sensations, Daddy Fire ,Big Dawg Sinista. and recently added Ken
Corsbie..Caribbean voices.
From: "Phoebe" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Friday, March 25, 2005 1:10 PM
Subject: Hi
Slingshot, how you doing?
I hope well. Tamiko gave me your e-mail address and I am so thankful.
Will you be coming to Guyana soon? I hope so. I heard your hair grow
soooo looooooooog…..!
Boy you crazy……….. ! I spoke with your driver and he told me you growing
it for PIRATES. Is true?
Can you visit our home when you come? We live in South Riumveldt at […]
Your driver know is where.
I want to visit you when you come. […]
Love
Feebee
From: "Pami Hospedales" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2005 10:10 AM
Subject: Love from T&T
Hi Slingshot!
My friends and I sending greetings to you from Trinidad!
An Indian guy from Guyana had your CD and played it at a house party. We
just love the music! You sing like a Trini, you know!! How come you
don’t visit us here in Central? Here is my number and address […] Call
anytime!
Can you send me your photo?
Love, hugs, and plenty kisses!
Pami
From: "Joyclyn" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Sunday, March 20, 2005 4:06 AM
Subject: Building Guyana - Post Flood Disaster
Greetings John
[…]
During the recent London “Concert for the Guyana” flood relief this song
was played “YOU ARE NOT ALONE”. Kindly tell me in which of your CD is it
to be found, as I am interested in its purchase.
We have many things to discuss, the adjusted dates appearances have been
noted, it is hoped that on your London tour, maybe possible for us to
speak depending on your program.
Regards
Joyclyn
From: "Grace.L" [...]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Sunday, March 20, 2005 1:09 PM
Subject: No subject given
username: "Grace.L" [... ] @tiscali.co.uk
city: London
country: England
comments: I have today had a profound visual and musical experience.
Your 'Musical Videos' provide just entertainment with its music. The
lyrics/words evoke many of my thoughts and emotions. The visual images
stirred my emotions and strengthened my resolve to very soon return to
see and experience my place of birth. Thank you for allowing me, through
your 'Musical Videos', to see beautiful Guyana and hear words of such
magnitude in your songs.
Grace.L
(London)
From: "Mark Bannister" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Saturday, March 19, 2005 1:04 AM
Subject: No subject given
username: mbannister@cfl.rr.com
url: http://www.gtlime.ezreunions.com
city: Orlando
state: Florida
country: USA
>
comments: Slingshot,
Thank you for all your efforts in helping the flood victims of our
beloved country. Your music has become the “anthem” for many Guyanese at
home and world wide which we thank you for.
Much success and greatness for you in the future…!
GT Lime 4 will be in Miami Florida, June 4th, at the Floridian Ballroom
in Pembroke Pines. How about a guest appearance for all the “Limers”
attending worldwide?
Tropical waves should be a link to our website too,
www.gtlime.ezreunions.com.
Peace and love,
Mark Bannister
From: "Joyclyn Bowman-Turner" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2005 8:40 AM
Subject: Guyana Advancement
Hello John,
Sincere greeting from London on this bright but wintry cold Friday
morning! […]
Thanks for your informative email, sad, at the prospect of missing the
concert for the children, but happy that it will be on at another time.
I have spoken to business man who has expressed interested in your music
video, have sent him to your website to listen to your music. I hope to
speak further with him prior to leaving for Guyana. […]
The UNIQUE SOUND AND LYRICS OF YOUR MUSIC captures the mind and centers
the person towards the importance of today's time and place. […]
Your work in advancing quality and quantity of life for children of
Guyana is and remains a powerful achievement.
Will try to contact you on my return to London in April 2005, until we
speak soon, remain a powerful person, greeting to the family and we
thank them. […]
John, your music has purity and simple powerful presentation with its
awaking sounds
and lyrics. This is just my reflection of its effect on me and the land
of Guyana.
Your enjoyment for the music and lyrics comes through and touches the
self
of person. Your music brings out its own beauty. Yes, it will be
enriching to
speak with you when next you touch down in London.
You, John (Slingshot) DrePaul are sincerely blessed with a powerful
gift, which you are sharing, through touching the lives of us all.
Regards
Joyclyn UK
From: "Harold Semple" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2005 1:49 PM
Subject: MASH FEVER song
Slingshot,
Greetings from Linden!
All praises to you, my brother!
Just want you know how much me and my Linden posse appreciate that you
mention Linden and Wismar in your new song, MASH FEVER.
Hey bro, we like that very much!
Is nice that you sing about places all over the different regions. This
shows you are a TRUE GUYANESE.
We know you from Berbice, and we admire what you doing for all Guyanese.
We coming down strong for “PIRATES” May 26. So, Slingshot, count on us.
Love you, bro!!!!
From: "Leila Persaud" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2005 11:40 AM
Subject: Greetings to You
Dear Slingshot,
I hope you good. I just want you know how we love you.
I live West Berbice and saw your BERBICE GYAL video on TV.
My family proud how you show up Berbice. Is it true you from Berbice?
I usually tell them and my friends I will see you one day. The next time
you drive up Berbice can you stop by at our home? The address is […] I
will always love you and your music.
With love and best wishes
Leila
From: "Jenny Simmons" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2005 1:40 AM
Subject: I Love You
Slingshot … how are you? I hope you come in May for Independence. Is you
we want here to brighten up we day. They publish they having a short
parade. So make sure you come. We will wave some big, big flags when
Slingshot float pass we.
I love your song ‘Dr. Slingshot’. They play it a lot on the air.
Take care now. I love you, too.
Jenn
From: "Bojan Drndic" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2005 8:50 PM
Subject: Your Website
username: drndic@sbb.co.yu
city: Belgrade
country: Serbia-Montenegro
comments: Hi Slingshot, I just visited your fabulous website. It is
extremely interesting and there are so many new things to see and hear
and read about. I hope we'll stay in touch through the Shadows Music
Community, and who knows, some day we might even meet . . . Well, you
never know, it's such a small world.
All the best to you!
Bojan
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
(Tampa Newspaper)
CONCERT FOR GUYANA—Tampa, May 1, 2005
On May 1, 2005, the Concert for Guyana—Tampa will be held at the
University of South Florida—Tampa Special Events Center.
The concert is part of the CONCERTS FOR GUYANA series--an international
program to raise funds to support Guyana flood relief. This project is
the brainchild of London-based flautist Keith Waithe and Tampa-based
music producer Ray Seales. Their idea of bringing together Guyanese and
other artists to show their solidarity with the people of Guyana has
already resulted in three concerts—London (February 20, 2005),
Georgetown (February 20, 2005), and Barbados (March 12, 2005). The
Concert for Guyana—Tampa will be fourth concert in the series.
The Concert for Guyana—Tampa is attracting many world-class
entertainers. Among them are: The Tradewinds, John “Slingshot” Drepaul;
The Phase II Band from Toronto, Canada; Chesley Rolle, Creig Commacho,
Winston Duggin, The Paul Brothers, Jimmy Ray, Mickey Dee, Ray Seales,
and Hip Hop sensations, Daddy Fire and Big Dawg Sinista.
From: "iamindra2" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Sunday, March 13, 2005 9:48 PM
Subject: [Skeldon]
[…] Bai, you're a song-writer. Of course you're good wid dem wurds dem!!
That's your special gift...you're blessed.
Folks, as I've said before, I've had the pleasure of listening to some
of Slingshot's CDs. You gotta have them. And my one wish might come true
- Slingshot might just get into Hindi songs again!!
Indra
From: "Allan Lloyd" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net>
Sent: Friday, March 13, 2005 1:38 PM
Subject: Purchasing Your CDs
Mr. Slingshot,
Good-day to you, Sir!
I saw your video on TV and would like to know where I can purchase it or
your CD. I phoned the TV station (CH 9) and the host mentioned your
website. In your reply, can you provide it for me?
You have a wonderful way of portraying our country, Guyana. I just want
you to know that.
Thank you for your time and for being a Guyanese.
We here in Guyana are very proud of you, Sir!
Best wishes,
Lloydie
From: "Vish at Taj" […]
To: Slingshot
Sent: Friday, March 11, 2005 9:13 AM
Subject: Re: Hello
John
It's been sooooo long since I left Guyana (and never went back) so all I
have are the memories of my life there.
The Lonely Bulls was my inspiration for learning to play the guitar. I
remember sneaking in to a gig you guys were playing in New Amsterdam
just to listen to U guys play. My Dad had his office in NA and I often
traveled to visit him. What was the name of that nightspot where U guys
played in New Amsterdam - Paradise ?? or ??? - Good Times.
Rudy is alive and kicking in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Carl Rambali may
have a phone number for him. Stan walked away from Corporate America
(and a good career in engineering) to pursue his lifelong dream of music
and he now resides in Barcelona, Spain where he is an active
percussionist and reportedly doing very well. […]
It would be nice to talk to you. Call me at […] I'd love to talk to U.
Please send me your phone number. As for my choice of musical
instruments - I'm best on the guitar and vocals.
Look forward to talking with U.
Regards
Vish
p.s. - I know that there is at least one photo of the Lonely Bulls
floating around my family. I'll try to get a copy for U.
From: "sirodjenie" […]
To: slingshot@tropicalwaves.net
Sent: Friday, March 11, 2005 8:02 AM
Subject: We Know This Gentleman
Hello John,
It was indeed a pleasure hearing from you and as for the late reply, an
apology is not really necessary. Anyway, thanks for your warm reply.
[…]
Since you are in the song business (I mean for fun) it would be very
nice if you can do some Hindi songs; not remixed and very old and golden
ones too.
I really appreciate your efforts in trying to make yourself and many
others in this world happy. Keep it up, it is good to know that someone
out there is making the world a happy place, which we as can be proud of
to say "YES! WE KNOW THIS GENTLEMAN".
Well, before I sound like a preacher let me bid you bye for now and do
have a fine weekend.
Until then,
Always
Surojanie
From: "Göran Tångring" […]
To: <slingshot@tropicalwaves.net
Sent: Friday, March 11, 2005 4:07 AM
Subject: Slingshot & 60’s Instrumental Music
username: gtangring@yahoo.se
url: http://goran.tangring.com
city: Karlstad
country: Sweden
comments: Hi John!
Judging from this very good website and from the number of hits on
Google, you seem to be quite a celebrity in your field of music. Nice
that you also have an interest in the 60's instrumental music. Any
questions regarding my type of music I will try to help out with if
requested.
Goran
From: "Vish at Taj" […]
To: slingshot@tropicalwaves.net
Sent: Wednesday, March 09, 2005 9:00 AM
Subject: Hello
John
You probably won't remember me but I do recall some joyous moments
watching you guys practice at the "infamous" bachelor quarters at No. 63
Beach during the days of the (not so) Lonely Bulls.
I am the youngest brother of Stan Naraine - your former bandmate and
bongo (percussion) player, and I am thrilled to see that U have followed
the path of your musical dream and apparently doing well at it. Keep on
rockin'…!
My name is Vish Deonarain and I, like you, am a musician, albeit a hobby
now. I played music (keys, guitar and bass) for many years in Nebraska
and Arizona (my home of 30++ years) and I quite understand what it does
for the soul. Last year Carl (Rambali) and I put a group together for
the picnic in Toronto and managed to squeak thru after ONE rehearsal
session with my cousin (Eric Azeez) and Ken Bahadur from New Amsterdam.
Most importantly - I had a blast.
I now live in Naples, Florida (about 100 miles South of Tampa) and I'm
interested in more info regarding the benefit scheduled for May. Do send
me some more info on that, will U?
I haven't quite decided if I will be in Toronto this year but if I do
then I certainly want to be a part of the kitchen band.
Regards
Vish
February 18, 2005
Dear Colleague:
This note seeks your permission to present a few selections of your
recordings on THE CONCERTS FOR GUYANA web site. The purpose of the web
site is to promote the upcoming concerts and encourage further
contributions to post-flood rehabilitation efforts.
The plan is to keep the site alive for the duration of the concert
series (to May 26, 2005). After that date, we will retire the streaming
audio link.
For further information on the site, please visit:
http://concertsforguyana.ohiou.edu/
We are currently featuring the music of John "Slingshot" Drepaul.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Peace
Vibert C. Cambridge, Ph.D., Chair
Department of African American Studies
Ohio University
Telephone: 740-593-9178
Fax: 740-593-0671
web: http://www.ohiou.edu/aas/
email: cambridg@ohio.edu |