This song is a classic in Antillean music and is cherished by many on the island, including myself. 'Atardi', which means 'in the evening' in Papiamentu, is often associated with feelings of nostalgia, love, and longing. Evening is a time for reflection, a moment to look back on the day.

Evening symbolizes solitude and melancholy—a time when people pause to reflect on what they have lost or no longer have.

My father and I were inseparable. His love for the island and for me was immense. This song brings those feelings back - watching the sunset together, living on the island, and experiencing moments of pure happiness. I often think back to those times.

Whenever I play this song, I relive those unforgettable moments with both a smile and a tear. There were times I struggled with life on the island, but my father’s gaze reminded me that this is simply how it is - nothing will change. So, cherish every moment, because before you know it, it’s gone. 'Atardi' brings me back to that place, with the sound of the waves in the background. In that moment, we are together again on my birth island.

My adoptive father passed away 30 years ago. He came to the island as a young Dutch soldier and ended up living there for 30 years. He felt at home on the island, where he met my aunt. Together, they decided to adopt me.