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Archived: 3 Reasons Why Voice’s “Cheers to Life” Gave Us Life in 2016

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Approx. 3 min read

The dust has finally settled. Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival is now over. Life goes on and Voice’s ‘Cheers to Life’ definitely plays on while carnival lovers settle back into the humdrum of life’s usual reality. The song won him the International Soca Monarch 2016 crown and with it, he captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide. But why did we love this song so much?! How did this groovy song have the power to sway all in its path in the face of the more powerful? Here’s what we think:

  1. His Voice

    Aaron 'Voice' St. Louis captured the hearts of all within hit single, "Cheers To Life" in 2016.

    Aaron ‘Voice’ St. Louis captured the hearts of all within hit single, “Cheers To Life” in 2016.

Aaron St. Louis’ big debut for the Carnival 2016 season proved to everyone just how appropriate his sobriquet, ‘Voice’ is. His vocals on this track had the perfect mixture of sweet-honeyed smoothness and a necessary grit at the climax of the beat that jolted all listeners to start moving their bodies. His mellow yet zealous delivery bridged his groovy soca with elements of something a bit more powerful than the usual. Crowds of fetters and masqueraders effortlessly sang along to this Carnival favourite all season long. Maybe the balanced key of the song (neither too high nor too low) was to blame for it being such a popular sing-along. Whatever the reason, Voice’s voice had a big part to play in the success of this song.

  1. His Message

On the topic of balance, Cheers to Life was able to intertwine a purely positive message with the wine and jam essence of Carnival and Soca. He didn’t glorify alcohol, cheating, or promiscuity. He glorified life and the goodness of life in the land of Soca. We could whole-heartedly commit to loving this song and not be called a hypocrite. We weren’t singing our lungs out about wining on someone’s significant other when in reality we’d catch a fit if it happened to us. He was singing, and we were singing along to a song with a simple but effective message. A message that was long overdue in this dry and thirsty land. No pun intended.

  1. The Voice of the People

He has described the feeling following his Soca Monarch win as 'indescribable.'

He has described the feeling following his Soca Monarch win as ‘indescribable.’

The reality is that we’ve all been victims of a daunting global reality for quite some time. We are bombarded with crime, corruption, racism, economic downturns, wars, diseases and unexplainable phenomena. As Trinbagonians, we have just emerged from a tempestuous time with the passing of one government into the next that brought so many deep-seated issues to the forefront of our social media pages. The people were practically crying out for positivity. We needed some message of hope, reassurance, and happiness since we’re not Trinbagonians without that. We didn’t want to hear about only living once or being called on our cellphones by exes, or being sorry (even though the Carnival DJs insisted we know that Justin Bieber was Sorry). We wanted someone to tell us that they are in our shoes and remind us that life is still good. After all, it had to be… that’s our culture.

 

 

 

SOCA MONARCH WINNING PERFORMANCE 

 EBUZZTT CONTRIBUTOR: Reianna Bharat

 

Music News

Belmont, Trinidad Delivers On ‘Hill and Gully’ Riddim. Anisha Pleas for Peace.

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A riddim built on pure Jamaican nostalgia that’s dominating with several acclaimed artistes releasing hit singles, the ‘Hill And’ Gully’ folk riddim is undeniably a major influencer this year. Like butter, several releases smoothly resonate, with artistes like Masicka, Mr. Vegas, Kees Dieffenthaller, Valiant, Elephant Man and Sheneil Muir delivering catchy singles for the masses.

Outside of multiple releases produced by Jamaican DJ/ Singer/ Songwriter/ Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor, Trinidad and Tobago artiste, Anisha, has risen to the occasion, urging social transformation using her creativity as the vessel. “Plea for Peace is meant to uplift communities and spark conversation because I believe music can preserve tradition, while creating space for meaningful dialogue,” said the Belmont,Trinidad native.

Known in creative spaces as The Goddess of Love, Anisha was raised in Belle-Eau Road in Belmont. She understands the need for thought provoking messages through music. “I compose my own songs and I’ve been involved in music for several years,” she said, explaining that she uses music as a tool to express herself, tell stories and tap into her emotions while addressing issues that affect communities.

For Anisha, the Hill and Gully Riddim offers music lovers a timeless cultural connection. “I felt it was a riddim that could help carry this message of peace to both the young and the old in a way that’s relatable and impactful,” said the singer. Acknowledging the criticism by veteran Jamaican broadcaster, Fae Ellington over some of the lyrics sung by artistes on the traditional folk riddim, Anisha says she respects Ms. Ellington’s perspective. “I respect her perspective because cultural and musical traditions are important and should always be valued.” She however admits that music continues to evolve as a reflection of society. “Each artiste chooses to use music to express himself/herself based on personal experience, however my approach with ‘Plea for Peace,’ was to honor the riddim’s cultural significance by using it to address an issue that is affecting my country, Trinidad and Tobago.”

Anisha says she admires the dedication to peace, shown by fellow T&T artiste, Orlando Octave. “We share a similar passion for spreading positive messages through music. I often refer to him as ‘The Prince of Peace,” she said, noting that she would be honored to work with Orlando, if the opportunity presents itself. “My mission as an artiste is to use my music as a bridge that brings people together, rather than divides humanity. ‘Plea for Peace is more than just a song. It’s a reminder that despite the challenges we face, peace, love and unity are still very possible if we choose to lift each other up.”

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Ebuzz News

Praise Music Hits Hill and Gully Riddim, Out of Trinidad and Tobago.

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Urban Christian artiste JrDynamite is making a bold declaration of faith with the release of his latest single, “Big and Bold”, a powerful anthem encouraging believers to stand confidently for Christ in an increasingly challenging world.

Recorded on the legendary Hill & Gully Riddim, produced by renowned Jamaican producer Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, the track fuses infectious Caribbean rhythms with a fearless message of conviction, purpose, and unwavering faith.

“Big and Bold” challenges listeners to reject fear, compromise, and silence, while embracing their God-given identity and calling. Through energetic delivery, commanding lyrics, and a memorable hook, JrDynamite reminds believers that faith was never meant to be hidden.

The release arrives at a time when many Christians are navigating cultural pressures and societal expectations. “Big and Bold” serves as both a rallying cry and a source of encouragement, reminding listeners that bold faith can inspire transformation in others.

Known for blending authentic Caribbean sounds with impactful gospel messages, JrDynamite continues to carve out a unique space within the gospel and dancehall landscape. His growing catalogue has consistently showcased his lyrical versatility, energetic performances, and commitment to spreading the Gospel through music.

With the backing of the iconic Hill & Gully Riddim and a message that resonates far beyond the dancefloor, “Big and Bold” is poised to become another standout addition to JrDynamite’s growing catalogue of faith-driven anthems.

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