PM HARRIS EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF KENRICK ANDERSON GEORGES, AUTHOR OF OH LAND OF BEAUTY!, ST. KITTS-NEVIS’ NATIONAL ANTHEM
August 26th, 2019
Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris extends his heartfelt condolences, and those of the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis, to the family and loved ones of Mr. Kenrick Anderson Georges.
Mr. Georges, who wrote the music and lyrics for the stirringly patriotic Oh Land of Beauty! – the national anthem of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis – has died at the age of 64. He was born in New Town, St. Kitts on May 1st, 1955.
“Kenrick Georges effortlessly encapsulated a boundless love and patriotic devotion for our newly established nation in 1983 with the composition of a deeply moving and magnificent ode to the country’s beauty and tranquility, which is widely and rightly considered to be one of the world’s best national anthems,” the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis said while reflecting on Mr. Georges’ lasting legacy.
“Over 35 years later, our national anthem remains an iconic masterpiece that will forever leave an indelible impression on all citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis and on all of our lives,” Prime Minister Harris added.
“When our national anthem is played in the days ahead, particularly during our 36th Independence Anniversary celebrations next month, I encourage all of us to sing every word sweetly and lustily, remembering the tender thoughts and the conscientious care that went into its creation and the touching meaning behind it,” Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris further stated.
“Indeed, Kenrick Georges lived a life of meaning, and we are most indebted to his sterling contribution, which will always be a central thread in our country’s rich tapestry,” Prime Minister Harris also said.
The Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis extends deepest sympathy to Kenrick Georges’ wife, Bernice; his children, Deidre, Gigi, Keneel, Kenijah, Kenisha, Kenricia and Kenrick, and his grandchildren.