For nearly two centuries, music has been one of the ways Indo-Guyanese families have preserved their identity.
When the first Indian indentured laborers arrived in British Guiana on May 5, 1838, they brought very little with them. Beyond a few personal belongings, they carried traditions that could not be taken away: their language, faith, clothing, food, and music. Those traditions became anchors of identity, helping generations remain connected to their heritage while building new lives far from India.
For Yogesh Jagdeo, known professionally as Yogesh Music, that legacy continues through song.
Born and raised in the Upper Corentyne region of Berbice, Guyana, Yogesh grew up in a family where music was more than entertainment, it was part of everyday life. His grandfather was a gifted singer. His father inherited that talent and became one of the finest singers Yogesh has ever known. A respected cricketer, outstanding student, and admired member of the Upper Corentyne community, his father set an example that continues to influence him today.
Now, Yogesh represents the third generation in his family to carry that musical tradition forward.
Learning from the Source
Determined to refine his gift, Yogesh became a student of Indian classical music under the guidance of a teacher from Bihar, India. His training introduced him to the discipline and technique required to perform bhajans and other forms of traditional Indian music while deepening his appreciation for the cultural history behind every composition.
Although he now calls New York City home, his music remains rooted in Guyana.
Each performance reflects not only years of study but also a commitment to preserving the traditions his ancestors fought to maintain. Music has become one of the ways he carries Berbice with him, allowing audiences throughout the diaspora to remain connected to a culture that has crossed oceans and generations.
Carrying the Tradition Forward
Today, Yogesh is passing that same tradition on to his own children.
Just as his father nurtured his musical abilities, he is teaching his children Indian classical music and introducing them to the songs and traditions that shaped his own upbringing. He believes culture survives only when it is intentionally shared, and music has become one of the most meaningful ways to help younger generations understand where they come from.
Throughout our conversation, he returned often to the influence of his father. He describes him as one of the smartest people he has ever known, one of the greatest singers he has heard, and someone whose example continues to inspire him as both a musician and a father. Following in those footsteps has given Yogesh a deep sense of responsibility, not only to become a better performer but also to become the kind of parent who leaves a meaningful legacy.
A Song That Changed Everything
Among the many performances throughout his career, one memory stands above the rest.
Yogesh was invited to perform at the opening ceremony of a summer music camp attended by nearly 200 students. As he sang a beloved Bollywood classic, something unexpected happened. The children began singing with him.
Watching hundreds of young voices embrace the music left a lasting impression. In that moment, he saw firsthand how powerful music could be in preserving culture and building confidence among young people.
The experience moved him so deeply that it inspired him to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging music education and creating opportunities for children to discover their own talents.
Nurturing the Next Generation
Yogesh believes every child deserves encouragement.
When young people show genuine musical ability, he hopes parents and communities will invest in helping them develop that gift. At the same time, he believes guidance also means recognizing when a child’s strengths lie elsewhere and supporting those talents with the same enthusiasm.
He credits much of his own journey to the people who believed in him along the way. Teachers, family members, audiences, and supporters all played a role in helping him continue performing. Their encouragement gave him the confidence to keep growing as both an artist and a person.
Carrying Guyana Wherever He Goes
Although New York City is now home, Guyana remains close to Yogesh’s heart.
He continues to perform throughout the New York metropolitan area while welcoming every opportunity to return to Guyana to share his music with audiences back home. Whether performing bhajans, Indian classical music, or Bollywood favorites, every performance is another opportunity to celebrate the country and culture that shaped him.
- Through music, Yogesh carries Berbice wherever he goes.
- Through music, he honors his father and grandfather.
- And through music, he hopes the next generation will continue singing the songs that have connected Indo-Guyanese families for nearly two centuries.
After the Makers.
Book Yogesh Music
Yogesh Music is available for pujas, bhajan programs, weddings, birthday parties, fundraisers, corporate events, concerts, Bollywood nights, and other special occasions.
Email: yogeshmusic85@gmail.com
Phone: (929) 660-0475
You can also follow Yogesh Music on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook to learn more about his performances and upcoming events.