Prime Minister Gaston Browne has voiced strong support for deeper cultural collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, including a call for Dominica’s Bouyon star Asa Banton to work with local Antiguan artists.

Speaking on his weekly Pointe FM programme on June 7, Browne praised the growing popularity of Bouyon music across the region and said Asa Banton, who recently performed at a Dominica Labour Party event in Antigua, is well-positioned to help elevate Antiguan talent to regional prominence.

“The Bouyon music seems to be the most popular music now,” Browne said. “And this is where I think Asa can probably collaborate with some of our artists, and to help them.”

He referenced a recent conversation with Antiguan soca artist Tian Winter, who reportedly took issue with comments Browne made comparing the success of regional artists.

“I had a discussion recently with Tian Winter. Apparently, he was hot under the collar because I said that he is more talented—in my mind, I may be wrong—himself and Claudette Peters, that they’re more talented and they have a larger category of songs than Asa,” Browne explained.

The Prime Minister said that despite his remarks being intended as a compliment, Winter was initially offended. Browne said he contacted Winter directly to clarify his comments, which ultimately led to a resolution.

“I didn’t say it with any animosity toward Tian or Claudette,” Browne said. “But Asa seems to have been more successful in promoting his music externally.”

He added that the exchange highlighted the importance of maturity and constructive criticism in the creative arts.

“As a country, we need to understand that when I call out people, it’s not because I want to shame anyone. I want to see better,” Browne said. “I want people to do better.”

The Prime Minister’s remarks come amid his broader push for greater integration and cultural synergy among Caribbean nations, especially between Antigua and Dominica. He noted the warmth and camaraderie displayed during the recent Dominica Labour Party anniversary celebration at The People’s Place, saying the event highlighted the shared identity and deep-rooted ties between both countries.

Browne’s support for regional music collaboration aligns with his administration’s wider cultural development goals and reinforces the role of music in promoting Caribbean unity.