Caribbean and American politicians met last month but the region's young people are finding ways to share their messages too

For one group of Bahamian musicians, their songs can help express their concerns about crime and corruption in their country.

One part of this movement of seriously-themed music is Bahamian hip hop artist Galen 'Reddah' Godet.

"My whole mission is to make the Bahamas recognised for talent," Reddah told BBC Caribbean.

"Right now, the music has been the strong point for most of the people on the streets," he adds.

"Most of the people that are not working in the hotels, they can't get those casino jobs, instead of selling drugs, they're putting out the music - from reggae to calypso to rap," says Reddah.

Reddah says that he sings on everything from unemployment to drug taking to corruption in high places.

"That's the real Bahamas," he adds.

Christian reggae

Christian reggae groups also look at the problems for young people in the Bahamas and on rising crime.

Lisa 'Bonafyde' Davis does not only put out music about issues which affect young people, she also owns a successful music studio on the island of Grand Bahama.

"Sometimes it's very difficult with women having to do what they have to do to support their families," Bonafyde told BBC Caribbean.

"We have a lot of single mothers. Sometimes, you'll find them working two jobs and the kids have to be home alone."

You would find that they're the ones that are vulnerable...to be taken advantage of," she adds.

Bonfyde also organises a group called the Unity Movement which brings together young people to sing about their

Hear Leslie Goffe's interview with Lisa 'Bonafyde' Davis, the Unity Movement, and Reddah

Haiti connection

	Lionel Jean wants to use reggae to raise his concerns about his native Haiti

Also seeking to make the musical difference is Haitian Louinel Jean.

He went to Jamaica ten years ago. He still lives there, is now married and has one child.

"My music from Haiti is not very much played in Jamaica," Jean told BBC Caribbean.

Hear Neil Nunes' interview with Louinel Jean

"I have hard, hard work to do. I'm trying my best not to sound too Haitian and too Jamaican."

Jean adds: "I'm trying to be a musician who uses the medium to share my concern about what is happening in Haiti."

"I think reggae is a very revolutionary sound. When you can put your concerns into reggae, I think it can reach a wider spectrum of listeners," he adds.

Do you have a tale to tell about how music turned around your life? E-mail us at caribbean@bbc.co.uk