‘The fact that we have been invited back definitely adds to my motivation as an artist,” KeAngelo Maybury said of performing at Kentucky Derby events. “It helped me to understand what I am up against and how hard I will have to work to reach my full potential.

“The opportunity to work with and produce a track with ‘The Incredibles’ — who are a serious group of engineers, producers and artists — was exciting.

“It was a whole different sound!”

He considered the 100 Black Men Gala, which was headlined by Chaka Khan, to be a highlight of the trip.

The roughly 2,000 people in attendance ranged from senior dignitaries to young people like Mr. Maybury.

“It was obvious that the organisation is community and mentoring based — it would be great to see more of this in Bermuda.

“It helps to give young black males a strong foundation and role models.

“I think that more of these types of opportunities, no matter how large or small, need to be opened to local artists. It’s is important in order for us to understand what it takes, the sacrifice and cost on all levels and how we can not only share our talent and follow our dream, but really be ambassadors for Bermuda.

“For IGM to believe in Twanee, Ninja Cutty and me to take the risk of supporting us and making it possible is not a light thing at all.

“And it also feels good to know that our Department of Tourism believed in us enough to through their support behind us.”