International Soca Awards 2011 | A Failed Endeavor!

Trinidad and Tobago's Newsday : newsday.co.tt ::

'via Blog this'

I was asking people (who should know) what happened at the iSA Awards show? That question had noting to do with the Newsday article linked above via "Blog this" but had to do with the results! Nobody seemed to know! Finally someone posted on islandmix that Madzart won for "Best New Male Soca Artist"- congratulations to Madzart! But wait just one minute... Madzart has been doing Soca for more than ten years now. If you can recall Kevin Lyttle's hit "Turn Me On", well he was the first voice recorded on that song before the Kevin Lyttle/Spragga Benz version was done. I believe the situation is the same for Fya Empress who won for  "BEST NEW FEMALE ARTIST". The newspaper report did not 'paint a favorable portrait of the event' and commented that it was "A Comedy of Errors at iSA Awards".

The article linked above tells it all... a comedy of errors! It seems like they simply cannot get anything done correctly with that show - this has happened before! It has never received praises from anyone that I know to date. I remember when Damion Melville of Wack Radio had to guest host the show in New York a few years ago (on the fly) and was not even thanked for bailing them out of the position they found themselves in. Apparently this one was no different because their 'special guest host' never turned up... no one even knows who was that special guest host.

The only saving grace was host Tommy Joseph according to the article. He did his thing and kept the audience laughing (maybe laughing at the disgrace the show turned out to be). No wonder no one takes the show seriously.

Now in the article we learn that the government did some sponsoring to the tune of $1.2 Million dollars - for what? The Newsday article reported that "very little planning seemed to have gone into the project" and that numerous invited guests/artistes were not present! This show is seen as a Trinidad and Tobago production and is making Trinidad a big joke in the Caribbean Soca community. Please note that this show's home base is NYC, USA! I was listening to Large Radio (smallislandmassive.com) and they were literally laughing at the fact that the "Curry Crew" aka Trinidadians are now recognizing Madzart and Fya Empress. I hope this show never returns to Trnidad (I mean that!). Colin Jackman should be ashamed... again!

Awards given out on the night: 

Best New Female Soca Artiste – Fire Empress (present)

Best New Male Soca Artiste – Madzart (absent)

Best Soca Compilation Rhythm of the Year – Honey Rhythm by Kernal Roberts (late)

Best Soca Chutney Music Video of the Year – Ravi B (present)

Best Groovy Soca (Male) – Benjai “Trini” (absent)

Best Soca Music Video of the Year – Kerwyn Thorpe (present)

Best Uptempo Soca Award (female) – Michelle Xavier “Feting For Days” (present)

Best Soca Artiste Album/CD of the Year – Machel Montano The Return (present)

Slam Your Favourite Award – Nebula 868 (present)

Best Uptempo Soca (Male) – Machel Montano “Advantage”

Best Soca Radio DJ of the Year – Marlon Mr Soca Music

Best Soca Info Website – trinijunglejuice.com (absent)

Overall Soca Chutney Band of the Year – Karma

Soca Song of the Year – Kees “Wotless” (absent)

Honourees:

SAO Legend Award – Allrounder

SAO Trustees Award – Charlies Roots, Chandileer, Sound Revolution, Fire Flight, Kalyan (present) and Blue Ventures

SAO Technical Award – Frank Martineau (absent) and Roy Maharaj (present)

Missing Honorees:

SAO President’s Award; The Colin Jackman’s Award – Winston “Gypsy” Peters

SAO Life Time Achievement Award - Errol Ince

SAO Legend Award – Anthony ‘Mighty Gabby’ Carter

SAO Trustees Award – Chandileer, Sound Revolution, Fire Flight, Blue Ventures, Byron Lee & The Dragonaires

SAO Technical Award - Frank Martineau, Cliff Harris, Randy Glasgow.

Results: 'via Newsday'

Reactions:

" Feeling To Wuk (Gimme Wuk)" | Buffy

Hello, listen well to this song! Don't get misled by the infectious sounds being played. Listen to the lyrics - man this is sexy stuff layered over some sweet sounding music. In other words this is typical sexual innuendos that Soca has become famous for (for quite some time now). Finger have been pointing at Trinidad Soca artistes for some time now regarding the continued promotion of wining, jump and wave and sexually  implied messages in the music. There is a growing audience out there yearning for better lyrical content in the music and have been promoting 'small island music' as better than that which is coming out of TnT.

Some people are offended by this lyrical style and would prefer lyrics that are not sexual in nature. OK, having said that the music production is a good one... I have not been disappointed with the music coming out of Precision Productions to date. 

I will not defend the topic or lyrics to convey the story in the music but I will say that I do like the music... well isn't that good enough?

Some information about the music here:

The music was produced by Dante Pantin, Mixed by Val Musik, Mixed and Mastered by Precision Productions, Written by Chrystal "Buffy" Cuffy.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Feeling To Wuk (Gimme Wuk) 2012 - Buffy

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"Older Than Meh" | Rayzor Feat. Yankee Boy

This song was written by Rayzor RQB and Yankey Boy; it was mixed and mastered by Kevin "Shadee" Sardine out of Kode 784 Productions. Something you might not know is that these guys are members of a group known as "Request Band". This group of singers and musicians make music that is very different but infectious from your traditional Caribbean Soca. 

There are 10 members in the group: Leonce (lead female vocalist), Rayzor (lead male vocalist), Bing (keyboardist), Blou (percussionist/musician), Shadee (Keyboardist/producer), Ritchie (guitarist), Camille (Lead vocalist), Ratrick (Keyboardist), Mark (bass player) and Jerry (Drummer/song writer). You will definitely like this change of musical pace!

Here is the band's Bio from the site Reverbnation:

"Request Band's unique blend of soulful vocals and calypso-inspired melodies,over a fusion of rock riffs and island beats, hints of soca and reggae, but can best be described as Caribbean pop. This style has elevated request band to stardom, in parts of the US - where they routinely sell out shows, and win over audience with their electric and highly energetic performances ! With intentions to release several music videos,songs and albums in the near future; an upcoming band locally based in Brooklyn, NYC and collaborations with major artists : Request Band is definitely on the verge of achieving their dreams and becoming an international sensation RQBfiLife"

Final thoughts... The music is interesting and the vibe is different but I am wondering about 'Kode 784'. Is it a reference to St. Vincent and The Grenadines (as in area code 784)? Hmmm...

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Rayzor Feat. Yankey Boy - OLDER THAN MEH [2012 Trinidad Carnival][Kode 784 Production]

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Bless You | Bunji Garlin

I got so caught up with the leaked Bunji Garlin song titled "Go Hard" that I completely forgot to post his latest release that is currently receiving constant rotation on the radio. This one stands alone; no other posts today.

This song has a message and it is one that you would like very much. Please go to the bottom of this post to play the song. It is a keeper!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Now lend me your ears... Enjoy!

Bunji Garlin - BLESS U LYRICS

Performed by Bunji Garlin
Lyrics by Ian 'Bunji' Alvarez
...
Intro
Lord is my light and my salvation,who shall I fear on earth is no evil man,no no, solid rock I stand (solid)
...
Verse
They made themselves your enemies,yeah,ha you know it like that ,
You've helped them  like a remedy, mmhmm mmmm, (hahaha),
They fight and then they curse you,(hey) slandering your name everywhere they go,
Trying to unearth you for your grounds but there is something I must let you know,
...
Chorus
No matter how they curse you Jah will bless you yeah Jah will bless you my brethren,
No matter how they curse you Jah will bless you yeah Jah will bless you my sisteren,
Doh fight over them,( aha ), doh hype over them (aha), doh fight over them,
God gonna put light over them now,
Doh fight over them (aha), doh hype over them (aha), doh fight over them
God gonna put light over them, Oh Oh
...
Verse
Look way over dey, you will see them In the distance, they will say what they want to say,
But brethren doh make no response,
All the big thing dey want to play them fool dey eh 'nutten' buh some infants,
God is always around the way, for example I'll show you an instance,
Shadrach,meshach and abednego,them walk to the fire they say 'let me go',
God protect them since in embryo, til they turn adult and im tell me so,
They could walk around you like Jericho but they can't cross yuh border like Mexico, them full up a gas like a texaco, let them know , SO,
...
Chorus
No matter how they curse you Jah will bless you yeah Jah will bless you my brethren,
No matter how they curse you Jah will bless you yeah Jah will bless you my sisteren,
Doh fight over them,( aha ), doh hype over them (aha), doh fight over them,
God gonna put light over them now,
Doh fight over them (aha), doh hype over them (aha), doh fight over them
God gonna put light over them, Oh Oh
...
Bridge
They see you thirsty for water now they want to give you sand ,
Is your soul that they want to slaughter just like the holy lamb,
But try and maintain your order, know which part you sta-a-and ,
All other ground is sinking sand,
...
Verse
Cold hearted demons, with face like child,
see them inna they legion,inna they heap and pile,
Is yuh blood they want to draw, like whole river Nile,
Anytime i see them I look at them with smile,
Cause some a dem they want get you down ,
Some a dem they want to push you 'round,some a dem want to hang you high, some want to bury you Underground,
All you have to do hold yuh faith, and listen up hard when the trumpet sound,sound sound,sound , AY AY
...
Chorus
No matter how they curse you Jah will bless you yeah Jah will bless you my brethren,
No matter how they curse you Jah will bless you yeah Jah will bless you my sisteren,
Doh fight over them,( aha ), doh hype over them (aha), doh fight over them,
God gonna put light over them now,
Doh fight over them (aha), doh hype over them (aha), doh fight over them
God gonna put light over them, Oh Oh
...
Outro
Blessings
...
The lyrics come to you via the website Toronto Lime on "facebook"; Here is the link: Toronto Lime/Bless U.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Bless U - Bunji Garlin

Reactions:

"Make Yuh Rock" | Machel Montano

This is the second song that I am posting on this 4D Riddim (a production of 1ST Klase Studios); first post for this Riddim was "Stress Away" by Kes. Now that I have listened to Machel's song on this Riddim I have to say that I am also not impressed with this song.

My only conclusion is that it has to be the 'Riddim'. What else can it be? Kes the Band and Machel Montano two of the best we have in this business of Soca... it has to be the Riddim...Right?!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen!

Machel Montano -- MAKE YUH ROCK [2012]

Reactions:

"Stress Away" | Kes The Band

This is the latest release from Kes The Band. This song was released today and is a 4D Riddim, Prod. By 1ST Klase Productions. This song may not grab your attention and it may take some serious listening to fall in love with it... I guess if you are a follower none of this matters. However, this song is not an attention grabber and may not impact the Carnival or party circuit. You be the judge!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Kes The Band -- Stress Away [2012]

Reactions:

"All Over" | Fay Ann Lyons feat. The Baron

OK, Let's go Ayeeeeeyoooo. There is a time and place for everything and for those who were lamenting the fact that they have not heard anything from Fay Ann well listen up because it is "All Over".

So if you want to party "All Over" then Fay Ann has 'The Baron' with his smooth sweet sounding voice backing her up "All Over" the place for this coming Carnival. The time and place? Well all you need to know is that it is Trinidad Carnival 2012.

I like this jam it is relaxed and sweet with two of our better singers coming together to put down some really sweet music. It is a rhythm song with sweet lyrics where Fay Ann does not push her voice but remains very laid back to compliment Barons sweet singing style.

Thumbs up... I like this one very much. There is no wine on she 'bam bam' or flag waving in this one just sweet party music to have fun. This is a fun song with good lyrics!  This one was 'produced by Penn & Ace from Studio 758, St. Lucia, Slu Records, Studio 758/ Slu Records Inc/ AP'.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Fay Ann Lyons FT Baron - ALL OVER [Carnival 2012]

Reactions:

"Action" | Super Jigga TC

The Jigga Man is at it again. He is very consistent with his music and this one has a nice groovy feel to it. This song is guaranteed to make you become a 'bubble head' if you are sitting. However, this is not one to sit and listen to... this is music for dancing.

This year the early releases are more of the groovy music nature and I like that a lot. The big boys with their 'Power Soca' songs will not have the shelf life that songs like this one will have; keep in mind that the future of Soca music rest in the genre called Groovy Soca. 

This is a party song, a groovy track that should get good rotation with the DJ's if not on the radio but guranteed for the party scene. I said party scene and not necessarily the major Carnival fetes... this is just a feeling I have for this song.

The track was written by GBM and Terrin Callender; it was produced, mixed and mastered by Jason "Nutron" Carter & Kenwyn "GB" Holder for GBM Productions. This is sweet music!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Action - Super Jigga TC

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Machel Montano at Maida Vale Studios | Live Session!

If you are a fan of Machel Montano then you will love these versions of two very popular songs loved by people across the region for various reasons. The first session video show Machel doing his very popular "One More Time:" This version is very laid back  and enjoyable. Listen up now...

Machel Montano performs Bob Marley's 'Waiting In Vain' @ BBC's Maida Vale studios for Trevor Nelson's Live Lounge. We have known, since Machel was a child, that he was destined for wonderful things in the music business.

For this video, he shows his versatility by singing the classic Bob Marley song 'Waiting in Vain'. The piano man is wicked on this track and (just for the record) that is Kernal Roberts (son of the late Lord Kitchener)on the trap set carrying the rhythm.

The following music files have been added to the post just in case you don't want to watch the videos but simply prefer to listen to the music.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Now lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Machel Montano - One More Time (live BBC)

Machel Montano - Waiting In Vain (live BBC)

Reactions:

"My Kinda Woman" | Blackie

This is a very laid back Soca beat but with a Calypso style lyrical delivery. This is more in the calypso vein the more I listen to it (emphasis on vocal delivery) but the Soca beat is the engine behind the lyrical content. Soca... yes, Calypso...yes; good song... definitely yes!

Some fun facts about the song:

This is the kind of song that could easily get you, the male, is serious trouble with the love/or your crush of your life... This kind of confession has good intentions but may end up leaving you 'whipped' with a serious case of tabanca (love sickness/case of the blues). Trouble starts when she knows that you are hooked; that because 'she is well put away and that you will never horn her' - good luck Blackie... yuh coo coo cook!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Now lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Blackie - My Kinda Woman - 2012 Soca

Reactions:

"Kirani & Rondell Tribute" | Boogie B ( Grenada soca 2012 )

This song is a musical tribute to Grenadian runners Kirani James and Rondel Bartholomew of Grenada. Grenadian singer Boogie B dedicated the song to these athletes after the Spice boys contested the 400 M race and Kirani won the Gold medal at the World Championships 2011. 

Boogi B whose real name is Dave Marvin Peters is a Barber by profession but is now one of the popular Soca stars coming out of the Spice Isle of Grenada. The track was produced by Lyndon of Yourngstars Studio. As a footnote please note that Grenada's Carnival is held during the months of July/August.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Boogie B - Kirani & Rondell Tribute ( Grenada soca 2012 )

Reactions:

"Happy" | Pupa L'eendi

This song was was done for the Carriacou/Grenada Carnival 2012 as well as Spicemas 2012 and now we have to add Trinidad Carnival 2012 to the list. This is the music of a Soca singer named Pupa L'eendi and the name of this offering is "Happy".

He is known as the Don Man of Cariacou and sings a positive song titled "Happy". He celebrates life and give thanks that he able to 'feel it" in music and dance. One thing to note here is that we don't get enough of the 'socalled small island music' in Trinidad and Tobago. I do think that the volume of music coming out of Trinidad could be one of the reasons why we don't get much of the music but then again these festivals are not celebrated at the same time with Trinidad's carnival. Trinidad's radio stations need to pay attention to what is going on in the islands but then again the problem is the same at home - one or two stations play Soca and Calypso year round.

Until we get it right, Trinizagada will make an effort to bring the music from these regions as they become available. This is Pupa L'eendi's Happy!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Pupa Leendi - Happy Carricou soca 2012)

Reactions:

"Go Hard" | Leaked Bunji Garlin Teaser!

This is a teaser track by Bunji Garlin from Kasey Phillips at Precision Productions out of Trinidad... It sounds like it is ready for release and will mash up the party scene in TnT... come on now release the hounds!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Go Hard [Precison Productions] Preview - Bunji Garlin

Reactions:

"Love The Way You Move Your Waist" | Kerry John

It was back in October (11/31/11 to be exact) that I posted the Hardbody Megamix with Mistah Spine's Wine Gyal. However, I missed out on one really sweet song that, I am sure, you have already heard and loved.

Well it is better late than never. I really should have featured the tracks on this 'Riddim' individually but that was not the case; I like this one by Kerry John a lot and I am quite sure it will become one of your favorite songs for 2012.

The song is titled "Love the way you move your waist" and I know you do love how she does it.  This one is a production of Shawn Noel for "Mastamind" Productions.

The music on this track is sure to have you moving; it was produced and composed by Shawn "Mastermind" Noel. I just can't say it enough but the music for Carnival 2012 is really full of surprises and the hits just keep on coming.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Kerry John - Love The Way You Move Your Waist (Hardbody Riddim 2012 )

Reactions:

"Doh Stop De Wuk" | Kerry John with Ricko

This one was posted on islandmix tonight as a teaser by asking the question: Can you name the riddim this song is on... well can you?

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Doh Stop De Wuk W.Ricko - Kerry John

Reactions:

"Steady Jammin" | Bomani

This song was released for Vincy Carnival 2011. It is a very well sung groovy soca track with clear and controlled vocals accompanied by a sweet soca beat. If you are a lover of Soca music then you will definitely gravitate to this song.

Isn't it a pity that you did not hear this one in Trinidad... if you did then tell me which radio station played it! The singer, Oronde Charles, uses the sobriquet 'Bomani' to promote his singing career. The name of the song says, "Steady Jammin" but this is a love groove and and one that you would love to hear in the party circuit.

This guy has a very smooth sounding voice and will rule the groovy Soca world in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Bomani's talent should gradually make its way around the Caribbean and hopefully get regular airplay in Trinidad. I really like this guy's style.

The music was produced by Parry Jack at Parry Jack Recording Studio in St. Vincent.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Bomani - Steady Jammin (2011 )

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"Bonanza Riddim" | Ahtik Studios (Various Artistes)

These songs presented here are on the Bonanza Riddim. There are thirteen songs listed; you may not know the names of these singers but you definitely will not be disappointed with the music.

When I initially hear the name of the 'Riddim' I wondered if this would have been a Corny translation of a Soca beat infused with some kind of country rhythm - hell no, this is serious Caribbean music with a twist that won't disappoint you.

The Riddim was the creation of DJ Future out of the Ahtik Studios in Brooklyn, NYC. These guys have put out all this music on this Riddim and the beauty about it all is that it is not boring or repetitious sounding - this one get the thumbs up from Trinizagada!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976).Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

SOCA 2012 BONANZA RIDDIM HOTTI WHINER - D'NATURAL

RONNIE HOMER - WHINING ALL ALONG

ORLANDO OCTAVE - WUK THAT THING

NOEY - WHOA GYAL

LYRIKAL - AFTER PARTY

KERRY JOHN - JIGGLE UP

JAH MEL - HAVE ME HOOK

G STARR - BRING IT

FADDA MOSES - VANITY

DEL J - BURNING HOTT

D J FUTURE - DE WUK BONANZA RIDDIM 2012 SOCA

C'DONIA - FULL IT UP

BLING FT MAKAMILLION - CLEANING TIME

Reactions:

"Handle It" | Blaxx & Ricochae

This is the theme for Carnival 2012 - Wine Gyal! The name of the song is "Handle It" as in can you handle the wine that those sexy ladies are notorious for during the Carnival. Blaxx and Ricochae are encouraging the ladies to 'put down wuk'... Why?  Well these guys are confident that they could handle it! I had this one in a folder and forgot to post it but it is better late than not at all!

Now this song is not on any 'Riddim' and I like that a lot! This song stands alone with its own Rhythm (Riddim) - a unique song as in one of a kind. That is the first thing that I like about the song. Secondly the singing is clear and understandable. The content of the song is nothing new or special and some may cringe at the fact they are encouraging the young ladies to 'wine gyal'. This one was produced by Q-Ban for O.S. Entertainment Ltd. The song was written by Ricardo "Ricochae" James and Angelo "Q-Ban" Pantin. All in all, I like this song and give it thumbs up!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Handle It - Blaxx & Ricochae.wmv

Reactions:

Wining Gyalore | Ricardo Drue

Music Composed And Produced By Shawn "Ma$tamind" Noel For Mastamind Productions. Written By Ricardo Drue & Lyrikal. Shawn Noel knows how to make music for the artiste he is producing. Ricardo's voice matches this rhythm perfectly. 

This song has a lot of 'color' and rhythm for the party crowd. This one will do well in the fete circuit. Soca has definitely buried itself in the wining scene with bumper to send you crazy. This is typical dance music... take it for what it is and you will definitely give it a thumbs up! "So when the gyal dem wining... and the wuking, wuking... we come to wine, wine it, wine it".

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976).Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Ricardo Drue - Wining Gyalore

Reactions:

"CAH STOP MOVING" | Terri Lyons Of SASS

The SASS girls are making history (as an all ladies soca music band) and are beginning to release their musical mischievousness  for Carnival 2012.

This group of ladies are on track to release music under the SASS brand name but with a different lead singer for each song released. This one is done by one of my favorite female singers Terri Lyons. I really liked her song "Smile" that she did with Ataklan - I was sold!

We look forward to more releases from this group of talented ladies. The music for Carnival 2012 is coming fast and furious and hopefully the music of the ladies would not get lost in the deluge of new music being released. Terri and the girls just 'Can't Stop Moving' and want you to bring the vibes because they have the moves and music to keep you moving to their new style... Call it SASS Style!

Production Notes:
The singer is Terri Lyons (Fay Ann's sister). This track was produced by Kernal Roberts (son of the Great Lord Kitchener) at Rama Studios.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Now lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

CAH STOP MOVING 2012 - Terri Lyons Of SASS 

Reactions:

"Hit Mih" | Mr.Blaxx

Blaxx is back... they just took the wrapper off this one on islandmix. We have a new hitman in town but this one is showering you with sweet music. "Hit Mih" is the name of the new song release and it is a good one!
Yes this is Blaxx of Roy Cape All Stars and he is doing his thing on this Madmen Production. Oh yes this one was produced, mixed and mastered by Madmen Producers.

This one has a real bacchanal 'break down the place' feel to it and could cause serious whiplash... Whip Whap... Just like that! This is carnival music! This is real spirit music with serious Jumbie in it... just listen up!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976).Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Mr. Blaxx Hit Mih!

Reactions:

"Mr. Fete" | Machel Montano

This is the latest release from Machel Montano. It was released tonight. The song was produced and mixed by Precision Poductions. It was written by "Full Blown Entertainmen, Machel Montano & Kasey Phillips. The track was mastered by Sterling Sounds in New York. Carnival is fete and Mr. Soca has decided that it is time that someone should pay homage to you... Mr. Fete!

This one was advertised earlier on islandmix just before midnight and it was amazing to see how the threads lit up with expectation and of course the haters waiting to call it trash. However, Mr. Soca did not disappoint and the good thing about this one is that it is not on any announced Riddim. Kasey Phillips and Precision Productions are going to be a force in this new era of the modern Soca rhythm.

Mr. Fete Official Music Video!

When you first listen to this one it may not hit you as something out of the ordinary but after listening to it a few times it really sticks in you senses. If you like to fete and "go night and day" and intend to "come again" then this one will become one of your party favorites for sure. There is a chant in the song that will hook you to this one:
"Feting is we name, we doh play, we going night and day, no fete can tire we, we coming again everyday, we full ah energy is fete whey calling we like that is we name. Doh care if ah wine on you, ah want yuh start wining back!"

OK, thumbs up to Machel and Precision productions for the work done on this track. A note to the haters... You will be partying and grooving to this track for sure!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Now lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Mr. Fete - Machel Montano (Precision Productions)

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"Bossing" | Maximus Dan Feat. MX Prime

"Who is de boss?" Maybe you should look to 'Madmen Poductions' for that answer. This post features the music of Maximus Dan  with MX Prime on a song titled, "Bossing". This one is done on the Break-In-Trance Riddim and is another Island Pop music release from Madmen. This is Madmen The Upgrade!

The song was produced, mix and mastered by Madman Johann for Madmen The Upgrade. Hell no, I don't have a clue about the "Upgrade" but the music is wicked! If you love Caribbean vibes with a techno trance rhythm then you would absolutely love this track.

It is really strange listening to this new music and thinking, "What the hell, is this the future of Carnival Music?" Well believe it or not this coming Carnival will have the most diverse beats for any one West Indian Festival. Once again Trinidad and Tobago will change the direction of Caribbean music. This is not to say that they are first with any specific music style but the trend will be anchored for this Carnival 2012. Singers like Maximus Dan and MX Prime with innovative music produces like Madman Johann are trend setters... Just watch, listen and see them change the what you listen to from now on.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976).Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Bossing Maximus Dan ft MX Prime Break-In-Trance Riddim

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"If snake come outta bush an’ say “snake dey!”… He dey" | Yuh is ah Trini

Triniglish|Trinididioms spoken and explained #108

Yuh is ah Trini | "If snake come outta bush an’ say “Snake dey!”

Talk is cheap and not everything that you hear is reliable for passing on to someone else. However, knowing Trinis as well as I do, any news is good news because we like to maco then go and gossip with our neighbors.

Neighbor, neighbor yuh eh hear what jus' happen dey? No but ah sure yuh will tell meh. From this point the story is embellished, polished and sent off with such sincerity that you, the listening audience, is left holding yuh hand over yuh mouth and saying, "no, yuh don't say!"

Have you ever found yourself in such a situation? Well there is a saying in Trinidad that goes like this, "If snake come outta the bush an' say, "Snake Dey!" Well then, 'he dey'.  So now that you have read it, the question now has to be asked, "do you know what it means"? Well simply put, "if someone more knowledgeable that you informs you of something, then there is a good chance it is correct"!

Now that we know that and if we can go back to the macoocious neighbor who just surprised you with some news 'hot off the press' then you should know better. Has this person done this before? Was he or she correct or was it simply mauvais langue? Just remember the part that says "someone more knowledgeable that you" and you can add to that a simple word, "trustworthy" and then you just might get away with passing on the information. 

Sometimes it is simply better to listen then keep your mouth shut until 'de mark buss' - that is one for another post. Trini good eh!

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I Am Soca | Patrice Roberts & Kerwin Du Bois | Trinidad 2012

Just when you felt like the new music could not get any better, we get this - Kerwin and Patrice with "I am Soca"... and that they are indeed!
This combination of HD talent and the distinctive Du Bois signature sound combined to produce a superb track. As a matter of fact Kerwin wrote the lyrics, produced the music and also added his talents to the vocals for this one.

Well if you say that Patrice is simply window dressing for this musical endeavor then I will simply stand behind you in support - some will disagree but in my humble opinion this is a Kerwin's song all the way. 

Kerwin Dubois is showcasing his talent and making music that is well received and appreciated by the public. For this one you get the entire package then some. On the Antilles Riddim he sang on music produced by Kasey Phillips, son of well known musician and producer Kenny Phillips. Here Kerwin displays his talents as a writer, producer and singer with Patrice in her supporting role. Now don't get me wrong, I really like the sound of Patrice's voice on this track. She is singing with a very controlled voice and not sounding like she is straining her voice. Both singers compliment each other on this track resulting  in a very polished rendition. 

Usually Patrice would sing alongside her HD family but with Kerwin blazing a musical trail it was a 'no brainer' to get on this successful musical Soca train. This one is very nicely done. It is a relaxed groovy track that will have you chipping and rocking to the beat. This is not a maddening crazy paced riddim but one to get you in the mood with your woman in front and you behind. It is a track that you can groove on your own or do is so much better with your woman right up under you. This is a good one, a smooth and very danceable groove. Well done Kerwin (and Patrice)!

Kerwin:
I am de rudeness on yuh face, I am de riddim in yuh waist (tell dem)
I am socaaa...

Patrice:
I am de jumbie in yuh heart, i'm de reason carnival start (tell dem)
I am socaaa...

See what I mean... "Ah done Tawk"!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Now lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Patrice Roberts & Kerwin Du Bois - I Am Soca

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"Control Meh" | Knycky Cordner

Here comes Knycky Cordner the entertainer singing a song writer by "Mr. Breadfruit" (I really like that song.. Breadfruit) Jason "Shaft" Bishop. The song was produced by G-Master and performed (of course) by the beautiful Knycky Cordner.

This song was delivered with class - a very nice job by Miss Cordner. Knycky sang in a very confident and relaxed fashion with a chipping beat not a true 'Wukking up' song but one for a 'nice chip down de road'. There are many songs to choose from every Carnival but not all cater to the really relaxed groovy side of the music. 

Today the goal is to get on the Power Soca train or as is the case recently we now have a wave of Island Pop music coming on stream. This lady says that she wants you to 'Control Meh'. What do you have to say to Knycky?

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Now lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Knycky Cordner - CONTROL MEH [2012 Trinidad Soca][Produced By G Master]

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"Wuk That Thing" | Orlando Octave

This song is done on the "Bonanza Riddim" and I am not sure that "Little Joe" would have been able to saddle up and ride with this one. Orlando Octave is doing Soca! He this is a slide to the right side side and it is a shift from the Dancehall music tacks you usually get from this artiste.

Now even though there are shades of Dancehall sounds to this one it is a Soca Bonanza just for the youth. Do you think that it is rude? Do you think that he was slick or just raw? I have always said that everyone will have their opinion.... I give this one a pass because it had me bouncing in my seat while typing this post.  This young and upcoming star should have some longevity if he continues to produce music that the youth love to move too just like this one. Hey you don't have to take my word for it but the word on the streets is that the young ladies love his rising star!

The name of the song is "Wuk That Ting" on the Bonanza Riddim and it was produced by DJ Future of AhtiK Studios. Give us some feedback. There are about 14 songs already on this Riddim so if you like the riddim there are many songs to enjoy or criticize. Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976).

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

ORLANDO OCTAVE - WUK THAT THING

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"Timing" | Inches

Here comes Bajan Soca artiste 'Mr. Jiggle it' on the Blue Ray Riddim - Inches has one that needs some 'Timing'. 

This one has a techno sound but still gives off the "Jiggle it" vibe. I don't know if that is good for this song's success. It does not sound 'fresh' because it uses too much of the old sound which still reminds me of Jiggle It.  This song is all right but it does not make me want to 'Jiggle it". What is your opinion?

The song was written and arranged by Leroy Sobers  and was produced by Michael "B-Roca" Holder. The executive producer was Michael A. Holder  and the song was mixed by Michael Holder & Fabian "Minim" Worrell @ Zurishanaje Studios.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Now lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Inches - TIMING [2011 Bluray Riddim, Produced By Michael B-Roca Holder]

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Canada's New Polymer Bank Notes | Funny Money?

Canada's new polymer bank notes |Secure, Durable, Innovative!

The future is close at hand and it appears that the Canadians are forging ahead with the introduction of new polymer bank notes. This new currency may soon become the standard bearer across borders as nations attempt to stem the tide of counterfeiting that has plagued so many bank notes across the World.

Today we have a choice of using paper money or plastic (credit cards) to pay for items purchased however, if the Canadians have their way (and it appears that this new note is a brilliant idea that may soon catch on) then the main source for payment would be 'plastic'!

The new notes are loaded with security features and (by today's standards) should be very difficult to counterfeit. One worthy feature is that you can mistakenly wash your money and not cringe that you may have destroyed the notes.

The concept of these notes is simply brilliant and the fact that the notes are already in production means that the future is now. Welcome to the new frontier!

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"You Make Me" | Farmer Nappy

This is the latest release from Farmer Nappy. It is a production of De Red Boyz and was written by Peter "Wild Fire" Noel. The song wias mixed by Andrew Denny and was Mastered by Will Quinnel (Composer).

This one has a new feel and at the same time a regular Calypso 'feel' to it. This song provides a glimpse of 'the new sound' of Farmer Nappy. These artistes are not making traditional Soca music that we are so used to hearing.

"You Make Me" may or may not be one of your favorites for the Carnival but then again if you want a dancing partner with a big bumper then this track may just set the mood and get you into your groove.

Farmer Nappy's vocals are crisp and clear and the music is sharp and clean. All in all I like this one by the Farmer and the dynamic team of De Red Boyz. You can see the video for the son at this link: You Make Me!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

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Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago | Music of Kelwyn Hutcheon

I saw the song "Oh, how I wish I were a chil again" featured on the blog Guanaguanare. The blog featured the song and lyrics with a special note from the writer that I though was 'cute'. Thank you for bringing me back to my senses Gull!

A note from the Gull (the author of the blog post):

"Thank you, Kelwyn Hutcheon, for what I consider to be one of the most beautiful Christmas songs IN THE WORLD. Although I do not share the wish to be a child again, saudade always gets me, especially when expressed so beautifully in a song." 

I realized that I was so caught up with the new Soca releases that I have not paid attention to this special time of year in Trinbago. Christmas, in Trinidad and Tobago, is a very special time of year especially for children. I remember the excitement and having to boil the ham outside in the back yard but I just hated the cleaning and painting and polishing of the furniture during that period. The songs during that period were special but are hardly heard on the radios today. Instead we get Parang and Parang Soca (that is fine) but there was and still is something nostalgic about the music of that period growing up in Trinidad (early years sixties into the seventies). Well I chose to feature the song presented by the Gull on his blog but also added "Kiss me for Christmas". They are both beautiful songs - enjoy them and reminisce!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976).

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Kelwyn Hutcheon - Oh how I wish I were a child again

Kelwyn Hutcheon - Kiss Me For Christmas

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"Ribbons" | Marilyn Williams | Trinidad & Tobago Christmas

This is a classic Trinidad and Tobago Christmas song - Ribbons. If you are the type who like to weave your love and become sentimental during this period, then you should tie your ribbons of love with this classic song playing in the background. I have become a little complacent and got caught up with all the new Soca songs being released for the upcoming Carnival Festival 2012.

Most of you finding this post came here to listen to this wonderful song. However, since I have decided to update the post and add the music player I also want to invite you to read a post titled Ribbons on this blog. It was done from information provided by a Trinidadian friend living in Canada. I decided to do the story  (10/24/2009) and post it but did not think about linking it to this post. By the way the song, Ribbons, is also attached to story that is also titled Ribbons!

Link to the story here: Ribbons - My Childhood Memories

Ribbons is a classic Trinidad Christmas song and for those of us living overseas this song can and will take you back to a time in Trinbago when everything felt 'just right'. Go ahead and shed a tear - there is no shame is so doing!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Ribbons - Marilyn Williams

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"Born For This Riddim" | Precision Productions

The team at Precision Productions have delivered some new music on the "Born For This Riddim". This one features two well known artistes to date: Lyrical singing, 'Born For This'; Zan singing, 'Eyes On You'. This 'Riddim' is very different from the 'Antilles Riddim' and while some may not initially gravitate to the music, rest assured that you will eventually groove to the songs. I give this new Riddim the thumbs up - Kudos to the team at Precision Productions. 

For this post we feature the Riddim Mix first followed by the full length songs, Lyrical then Zan. The mix give you a taste of both songs and shows how the songs seamlessly passes the baton from one to the other. This makes the job of the DJ easy while making him/her look good (smile Precision Productions).

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only, ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976).

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Born For This Riddim Mix. ( Soca ) 2012

Lyrikal - BORN FOR THIS [2012 Trinidad Soca][Born For This Riddim, Precision Productions]

Zan - EYES ON YOU [2012 Trinidad Soca][Born For This Riddim, Precision Productions]

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Crop Over Redux | Swappi

Gosh, I have never seen so much harsh criticism for a musical production that "Wet Meh Down" (cover version by Swappi) got on islandmix. I originally posted the song here on Trinizagada then sought feedback on islandmix - the response was not good - no one gave a thumbs up to the production - Yikes!

All right so most of those responding to the music thread on islandmix hated Swappi's take on Johnny King's 'Wet Meh Down'. As a result, I have decided  to feature Swappi's music once again. Here we go with two Swappi tracks because I am not giving up on this guy's music (hey, you never know). I am posting two tracks that he did for Crop Over Festival in BIM (Barbados for those who don't know). One song is on the 'Whistle Riddim' while the other is on the 'Charlie Sheen Riddim'. What do you all have to say about these two tracks?

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976).

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Swappi- MARLICQUA [2011 Barbados Crop Over][Whistle Riddim, Produced By Studio B]

SWAPPI- NUFF WINE [2012 TRINIDAD][CHARLIE SHEEN RIDDIM]

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"Indian Girl" | Ricky T

Maybe you haven't heard about the talented St. Lucian but here he is Ricky "Teasel" Joseph aka Ricky T. He is the current Party Soca Monarch as well as Groovy Soca Monarch for 2011. Did you notice I wrote Party Soca Monarch and not Power Soca Monarch? Well in Barbados they have the Sweet Soca Monarch and the the Party Monarch competitions while in Trinidad there are the Power and Groovy Soca Monarch competitions. 

In St. Lucia they chose to keep the Groovy name but named the other competition Party Soca Monarch. If you listen well you will notice a dirrerence in the music of the islands eventhough they fall under the banner of Soca.

Today we feature Ricky T's "Indian Girl" simply because I like this song of the lot. The music has a nice base line and it is a quality recording... most importantly it had me smiling (you will too when you hear the song). The song is a production of "No Xcitement Productions".

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Ricky T- INDIAN GIRL [2011 Saint Lucian Soca][No Xcitment Productions]

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