Andy Palacio (1960 - 2008) Passes to the Other World

Sing praises and gratitude for the life of Andy Palacio. We visited in August of 2007 during his tour in Seattle and he inspired me to step up my game and to tap into my potential. He reminded me of an older brother, looking out for his global sister(s). He was an incredible force on many fronts. He carried great wisdom, compassion, humor, and a perspicacity that I greatly admired. I will miss him and treasure his beauty in my heart forever. His eternal force lives through the Garifuna musical legacy he's left for others to enjoy and learn from. "Legacies" by Michele Treesong


Andy's most recent release with The Garifuna Collective, Watina, is a tribute to, and revitalization of, Garifuna language and culture through music. He has inspired many others to carry on the tradition. You can learn more at Stonetree, a magnificent record label dedicated to Belize's rich musical culture.
May the Palacio family and friends be surrounded by great love and support. Rest in peace, Andy.

On Friday, January 25th there will be a Mass in Belize and a national day of Andy's music. Below is the press release and links.

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In the Garifuna culture the death of a loved one is an opportunity to celebrate their memory and rejoice in having been blessed to have had them in your life. We feel so fortunate to have known this incredible individual and we mourn the loss of truly great man.

In an interview conducted last July, Andy was asked how he wanted to be remembered when he died. He replied, "As a proud Garifuna...someone who instills pride in Garifuna and raises their self-esteem. To me, that's the most important thing." This was already the case while he was alive, and we're certain it will only be more true in the future.

Sincerely,

Ivan Duran (Stonetree) and Jacob Edgar (Cumbancha)

PRESS RELEASE
Friends and supporters are invited to post messages in memory of Andy Palacio to his MySpace page as well as to the blog of his international record label Cumbancha .