Belizean Musicians Prepare Tribute for Kendoyll Simpson

Belize’s music community is mourning the loss of one of its brightest young talents, but it’s also celebrating a legacy that continues to resonate far beyond the recording studio. As family, friends and fans remember Kendoyll Simpson, better known as KSBEATS, the National Institute of Culture and History is working alongside his loved ones to ensure his life and contributions to Belizean music are honored in a meaningful way. The acclaimed producer and artist passed away on Sunday after a courageous two-year battle with cancer, leaving behind a powerful imprint on the local music industry. Today, some of those who knew him best reflected on the passion, creativity and influence that made KSBEATS a beloved figure and a cultural icon to a generation of Belizean artists. Shane Williams has the story.

 

Shane Williams, Reporting

For more than twenty years, Kendoyll Simpson worked behind the scenes, producing countless songs that soundtracked Belizean life. Whether in the recording studio, on stage, or mentoring young artists, “KSBEATS” earned a reputation for demanding excellence while always encouraging those around him. His death has left a void that is deeply felt by those who knew him best. Among them is his best friend, Horace Bryce.

 

Horace Bryce, Best Friend

“We have start our musical journey in church where we were on the praise team. We were musicians, you know, Kendall playing the drums, I’m singing or playing the bass. You know, I helped out Kendall with the drums, you know, when he was little, and, you know, his foot couldn’t even touch the pedal. He had a smile to die for. I mean, everything that he did, he was smiling. He plays the drums, he was smiling. Whatever instrument he’s on, he was smiling. One day and him hanging out, we were talking, I mean, he’s smiling. So I will miss his smile. I will miss him always teasing me, you know, and stuff like that.”

 

Renowned vocalist Jackie Castillo spent nearly two decades performing alongside Simpson and worked together as members of the Center Stage Band.

 

Jackie Castillo, Band Member, Center Stage Band

“Whenever you would be off-key, Kenny would be like, “You no hit the note. You need to hit the note.” I always see that in my mind since I’ve been thinking about him. He would tell you quietly and sweet that you are not hitting the note properly, and he will insist that you hit the note. So he brought a lot of my best qualities and my best vocals in my recordings, because he ensured that it was top quality. Um, and I will always remember and appreciate him for that.”

 

That commitment to quality is perhaps best reflected in the music he created. Simpson produced across genres and borders, working with some of Belize’s biggest names, including Melonie Gillett. Together, they recorded more than thirty songs.

 

Melonie Gillett, Artist

“ I want people to remember him as a musical genius, that’s for sure, and a pioneer in the Belizean music industry. Innovative and so smart, talented, and always, always willing to help. I was going through some of our messages and trying to piece everything together because all of this just makes no sense to me, you know, that he’s gone.”

 

Though his drums have fallen silent, the music Kendoyll Simpson leaves behind ensures his legacy will continue to echo through Belize’s recording studios, concert stages and playlists for years to come. Shane Williams for News Five.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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