SOUTH FLORIDA – The 38th Annual Miami Carnival culminates in a huge Parade of the Bands & Mega Concert on Sunday, October 9, 2022. Celebrating all the diverse flavors of the Caribbean, Sunday’s parade features food, crafts and display colorful costumes of more than 20,000 masquerades and revelers. The mega-concert featuring the contagious vibes of over 30 Soca music ambassadors is a must-see and a favorite on the official Miami Carnival lineup.

South Florida Caribbean News met Bahamas Music Ambassador Julien Believe and learned what inspires him throughout his musical journey.

Q: Could you tell us about your musical influences as a young person?

A: As a youngster I had a few musical influences, that’s why my music is so intertwined, but the ones that influenced me and my music a lot were Usher, Ronnie Butler, Bob Marley and the old school R. – Kelly.

Q: When/how did you know that music would be the centerpiece of your life?

A: My mother always said that I had a compulsion for music from an early age because I was always humming and singing in my crib. Then, as I got older, I was listening to the radio and recording songs and I was extremely excited about doing it, and that’s when I knew… this was going to be my career, something which allows me to go beyond the borders of the Bahamas. So music is something that I honestly can’t see myself not being involved in.

Q: How would you describe your current musical style, and has it changed over the years?

A: My music has changed over the years. I started singing R&B… with my first single, “Believe”, then I infused cultural music into Junkanoo elements; thus, Junkanoo Pop was born. I like the evolution of my music because I’m not afraid to try new things. My music is a hybrid and a fusion of different genres. I can’t wait for everyone to hear!

Q: Did you have a particular artist who inspired you to take the path of a musical career?

A: Believe it or not, Monique, the queen of comedy, told me to believe in myself and gave me great advice on how to stand ten toes with my head held high…and that’s what that’s when I went from Julien to “Julien Believe”. ”

Q: What is your main inspiration?

A: My main inspiration is to be able to represent my country and make music that will spread and be appreciated beyond the Bahamas. But also… getting up everyday to do what I love is the biggest inspiration! If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.

Q: Could you share hHow can people reach you?

A: My official website is www.JulienBelieveOfficial.com

You can follow me on all JulienBelieve social media platforms (IG, FB, YouTube, Twitter, Apple Music, Spotify).

The Miami Carnival Mega Concert Happens Sunday, October 9, from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo- 10901 SW 24th Street, Miami, F 33165. For more information and to purchase Miami Carnival tickets, visit:https://miamicarnival.org/