Lost & Found Artists, Episode #2: An interview with Gordon Henderson, father of Cadence-lypso

For the second episode of our Lost & Found Artists series, we visited Paris to meet the legend, Gordon Henderson, for an exclusive interview with Revibed. Gordon is a renowned musician, songwriter, and producer from Dominica, widely recognized as a trailblazer of Cadence-lypso and the leader of the iconic band Exile One. Born in 1949, Henderson’s love for music was sparked early, deeply influenced by the rich sounds of his Caribbean roots. Over time, he not only transformed Dominica’s music scene but left a lasting mark on the entire Caribbean and African music landscape.

In the 1970s, Henderson formed Exile One, a groundbreaking band that became the face of Cadence-lypso. This new genre combined Dominican rhythms with elements of calypso, reggae, and other Afro-Caribbean styles, creating a fresh sound that captured hearts across the French-speaking Caribbean and beyond. Exile One’s electrifying beats and cross-cultural vibe made them international stars, putting Caribbean music on the global map.

Hits like "Rosalie" and "Jamais voir ça" turned into anthems, loved from the French Antilles to parts of Africa and Europe. Henderson’s bold vision helped the band blend traditional and modern sounds, paving the way for future genres like Zouk. Exile One’s success marked a new era for Caribbean music, making it a global sensation.

Outside of performing, Henderson made waves as a producer and entrepreneur. He founded Saultone Ltd, a record label that became a key player in spreading Caribbean music, especially Cadence-lypso. Saultone gave Henderson the freedom to experiment, push creative boundaries, and help new artists shine. His label elevated production standards, giving Caribbean music a polished, global appeal.

As a producer, Henderson worked with various artists, refining and expanding the reach of Cadence-lypso. His innovative techniques and deep understanding of Caribbean music traditions brought the genre to new heights, earning him widespread recognition. Henderson played a vital role in connecting traditional Caribbean sounds with modern global music trends, making him a key figure in the evolution of Caribbean music.

Throughout his career, Gordon Henderson remained passionate about promoting Caribbean culture. He proudly represented Dominica’s music on the world stage, ensuring the island’s unique sound and identity were celebrated. His dedication to preserving Caribbean musical traditions made him a cultural ambassador and a respected icon in the music world.

Today, Henderson’s influence still resonates throughout the Caribbean. His pioneering work with Exile One and his efforts through Saultone have inspired new generations of artists. His contributions firmly placed Dominica on the world’s music map, making it a vital part of the Caribbean’s musical heritage. With his creativity, passion, and drive, Gordon Henderson has secured his place as one of the most important and influential figures in Caribbean music. His legacy as a musician, producer, and cultural visionary continues to inspire and shape the sound of the region today.