Being a celebrity on his island, Skelet Mr Reddeye Beffaass has changed the face of parties on the island by coming up with events that excite and drive party goers on and off island. Understand: we will attempt to get in the mind of the creator of Bacchanal Sunday, J’ouvert Jump-Up Splash truck, SXM Dancehall Queen, SXM Best Weekend and countless unique party events promoter. Oh, and he plays a major role as the leader of the group R.E.C (Red Eye Crew).
Notice key word: Attempt! Even though the all-around entertainer does not want to reveal his real name, Skelet did dish some information that might get our readers to learn more about who Skelet is.
Who is Skelet and what is your real name?
My real name is Skelet (smiles). Skelet is a young entrepreneur, artist and promoter. It’s super hard to describe myself.
Education?
I graduated with honours from Lycee here (St. Martin) and attended a school in Guadeloupe where I obtained a Computer Engineer degree.
What made you start Red Eye Crew?
It was back in 1998, when we knew nothing about the music industry and how it worked, but the passion was definitely there. In fact our first recording was with two radios: one used to play the instrumental and the other used for recording of our vocals on a cassette. We spent our evenings hanging out in our neighbourhood free styling. Whenever they saw us come, they would say, “Check the RED EYE CREW coming.” From then to this current date, the reason for our group has always been sharing our passion for music with those who want to listen.
How did you start organizing events and why?
Everything I do, I do with St. Maarten/St. Martin on my mind. It’s about making our island the number one destination. My first big event was SXM Dancehall Queen, this event brought visitors from Guadeloupe and Martinique. We were even recognized internationally as one of the coolest events when we created an electronic cage that came from the roof on to the stage for the final battle.
How did you come up with the concept of Bacchanal Sunday?
Bacchanal Sunday is a chain of events the Kalaboom Team have created after the first edition of J’ouvert Morning Splash back in 2013. We wanted to create something exciting for our followers/splashers to prep them for J’ouvert Morning Splash.
What makes your events different from other events?
I have no boundaries; I mean who would have ever thought about having a moving pool for J’ouvert Morning or a Missile? My aim is always to do things differently, creating an experience for the party-goers; something to make them remember the night. Something that will guarantee fun.
How does Red Eye crew write songs?
Actually 90 per cent of the time, we do not write our songs; we memorize them. It’s a vibe when we come together or a situation that occurred. Once the song is completed, only then will everything be written.
What is a relaxing day with Skelet?
In no particular order: 1. Home brainstorming on what to do next. 2. Relaxing with my son and wife or at the movies.
What event are you planning next?
Ten Commandments in June; SXM Best Weekend in July; Black on Black in November and I’m working on a new concept called Blue Magic.
Tell us how you came up with the concept for Best Weekend?
Before SXM Best Weekend, it was Summer Splash, part of our chain of events and feeding off our J’ouvert Morning Splash. After the second edition Summer Splash grew, which made me take it a notch higher by creating SXM Best Weekend (the next best thing after carnival). My aim was to create a Spring Break (Summer Break) in SXM, attracting people from all over to join us for the three-day festival.
What is your fav movie and book?
I don’t have time to read or watch TV
What type of music do you like more soca or dancehall? Must pick one
This is a tricky question, but whenever I’m meditating on what my next move should be, I turn on some dancehall which sets the mood.
If you had to have dinner with three persons dead or alive who would they be and what would you give them for dessert?
LOL. Sarah Wescot- Williams, Silveria Jacobs and Tamara Leonard. Dessert would be a chocolate lava cake with a Kalaboom Energy Drink.
