Ebuzz News
12-Year-Old Jalessa Gets ‘Shaft Vibes’ Approved, Calls on Youths To ‘Focus.’
Approx. 3 min read
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
One 12-year-old girl in Trinidad and Tobago officially began her journey to stardom last year, delivering her first studio release, and now, at this juncture, she is increasing momentum, teaming up with super-songwriter, Shaft, to see her dreams materialize.
Jalessa Lazarus has the vocal ability of a seasoned vocalist and because of her natural talent, her mother has dedicatedly directed her child along the path she knows she was born to pursue. Earlier this year, Jalessa released a track called, ‘Kiddies Carnival,’ – a song with the children of carnival in T&T, in mind. She understands her cultural assignment but her heart pines for much more. The St. Charles High School student has big dreams of realizing her full potential as an international recording artiste and entertainer. Her mother, Phylesha, is behind her every step of the way. “Jalessa is extremely talented, and she’s full of life, full of joy and energy. She is also incredibly passionate,” explained Phylicia. She’s gone through the full gamut to prepare her eldest daughter for the world that lies in wait for her. “At the age of six, she entered an online competition hosted by Nailah Blackman and won. She was able to perform on stage with Nailah,” she said, noting that Blackman is one of the artistes that Jaleesa looks up to.
The youngster’s talent was first introduced to the world through her mother’s social media platforms. “I would put her on my Facebook LIVE and she would sing. I always believed in my daughter,” said Phylesha. In September 2022, a video of Jalessa performing at a karaoke competition, singing Adele’s “Easy on Me,” became a viral TikTok video, with over 900,000 views to date. Competitions like the Lyndon Ross Talent Show and the Ministry of Education’s 2023 Junior Soca Monarch Competition, have yielded positive results for the pre-teen, Jalessa placing first and 2nd respectively. Phylesha stands firmly beside Jaleesa, ensuring that she has had vocal training under the tutelage of Tiffany Paul and via Curtis Jordan’s Training Academy.
Now, fully invested and ready to take on the world, Jalessa is set to release a new single, written by renowned T&T songwriter, Jason ‘Shaft’ Bishop. “I had been searching for a songwriter and was eventually sent his name and contact information. From the moment he heard Jaleesa’s voice, he was sold. He immediately sent a song to us,” said the excited mom.
The new single, “Focus,” is being released as a summer anthem for young boys and girls. “It’s an Afro Beat track that offers good motivation for our country’s youths,” Phylesha explained.
The Arima born artiste, who has two younger siblings, is proof that one can achieve one’s dreams with determination and the strong support of family. Excited for the triumphs of the future, mom Phylesha Lazarus is encouraging parents to listen to their children’s desires and stand with them to the end. “Let the children’s light shine. Believe in them, support them. The limit is beyond the sky. I mean… why not? If you have to spend all your money, why not?”
To keep up with Jalessa, follow her on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook @jalessa_lazarus.
Caribbean Buzz
Lil’ Bitts Vows Never to Miss de Mas Again as She Prepares for a Jam-packed 2025 Season
After two decades in the business, Lil’ Bitts—aka Shivonne Churche-Isaacs—has made a vow she plans to keep: never again will she sit out Carnival. The multi-talented artiste, known for her infectious energy and stage presence, has had a front-row seat to Trinidad and Tobago’s iconic festival season for years, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing. She still remembers the shock she felt when she made the decision to skip the parades on Carnival Monday and Tuesday one season, only to end up physically sick. “I got sick—like, literally,” she admits. “I’ll never ignore Carnival’s call again.”
This year, Bitts is more than ready to hit the streets with Yuma for an unforgettable Carnival 2025. The excitement is palpable as she gears up for what’s sure to be a thrilling season, both on and off the road.
Rising to the Occasion with “Brighter Days”
With five songs under her belt and a growing social media presence, Lil’ Bitts is enjoying a well-deserved moment in the spotlight. Her Instagram and other platforms have become hubs of interaction with fans, opening doors to new collaborations and promotional opportunities. “Social media is the ultimate artiste toolkit,” she says, urging fellow performers to embrace the digital world to connect with their audiences.
One of her most highly anticipated projects is the track “Brighter Days,” which she says has been in the works for three years. Produced by Gaffa Productions, the song has become a personal passion project. “This one is really special,” she shares. “The world needs positivity right now, and I feel like this song is necessary.” She credits the magic of modern technology for making it all come together, working with talented producers like Stemz, District 6 Studios, and Benje Music in hybrid mode from different locations in the region. She’s also collaborated with M1 on a single called “Wetter” for the 2025 season. “We’ve been talking about working together for years, and I’m so happy it’s finally happened,” she says. “M1’s a unique talent; there aren’t a lot of artistes like him.”
A Dream Come True: Chutney and Multi-Cultural Magic
As if things weren’t busy enough, Lil’ Bitts has recently ventured into the world of chutney music. She got a call from the Pungalunks Factory to contribute vocals for a track with Reshma Ramlal, the Warrior Princess herself. The track, “Poowah Nah Ready,” is a dream come true for Bitts, who has always had an affinity for East Indian culture. “When I was a kid, I loved dressing in Indian clothes and watching Bollywood movies. I knew I wanted to do a Chutney song one day, but it had to feel natural. And this—this feels right,” she said. Bitts reflects on how much she’s learned and appreciated about Trinidad and Tobago’s multicultural beauty through this experience. “The energy on set, the unity—it was amazing. We’re one people, and that’s something I never want to forget.” The collaboration has already earned a place in the spotlight, with Ramlal making it into the semi-finals of the Chutney Soca Monarch competition.
Caribbean Buzz
$1 Million Up for Grabs In New Ultimate Soca Champions Competition.
Trinidad and Tobago is set to stage a revamped International Soca Monarch competition in what is now dubbed The Ultimate Soca Champion competition. The event’s final will be staged on Thursday, February 20th, with the semi final round set for Sunday, February 9th. The announcement was made earlier today by organisers, at a media conference held at Queen’s Hall, Port of Spain.
The organisers said the competition will not be split into Groovy/Power categories, however they said there will be special prizes for Best Groovy Soca, Best Power Soca and People’s Champion, based on public votes.
The event will feature the Ultimate Soca Champion reality TV show which organizers say is aimed at giving viewers an intimate look into the competition. “We believe this will help our culture to reach international audiences when packaged properly,” the team said.
In-Person Auditions will take place on Saturday, January 25th, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Fernando Academy of the Performing Arts (SAPA). Regional/ International Artistes who are not in Trinidad and Tobago, are required to submit video auditions from January 20th at 8:00am to January 26th at 11:59pm.
“We aim to make this a production that captivates
audiences worldwide,” said Rome. “The Ultimate Soca Champion Competition will not only
elevate soca to international standards but also inspire the next generation of artistes.”
For registration, submission guidelines, and updates, visit ultimatesocachampion.com from Monday January 20th, or email ultimatesocachampion@gmail.com.
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