Ebuzz News
Archived: DJ’s Being Paid for Play? Comedian and Radio Personality POWERFULLY States Her Claim.
Rachel Price is never to be toyed with. She’s a tough one when it comes to the business of entertainment in the Caribbean and while her words can be as stinging as her comedic expressions when she hits the stage, the proclaimed Queen of Caribbean comedy is often fearless when she has the proof to back her words. This morning, on the airwaves of urban frequency, RED 96.7FM, Price excitedly pounced on the topic of the Road March contenders and the race to the finish, suggesting that a competing frequency has been pushing its own agenda in playing Machel Montano’s music more than the music of the other competing artistes, and even going as far as to suggest that DJs at many radio stations were enjoying payment for airplay.
Patrice Roberts’ “Sweet For Days” has been a refrain for weeks. PHOTO CREDIT: Jermaine Cruickshank
Calling for the people on the ground to be given the opportunity to decide on the Road March, Price said while she had no problem with the music receiving widespread rotation, she was bothered by the unfairness of the present situation. She noted that on the weekend when Montano’s song was released, the radio in her vehicle had been on the competing frequency, where for an extended period of time between driving to complete various errands, she had heard the song unceasingly wheeled and played.
Many are now taking to social media with their views following the weekend explosion of Machel Montano and Superblue’s “Soca Kingdom.” Many are in agreement with Price’s sentiments while others argue that Machel has the recipe for the Road March. It was also suggested this morning that the population had been brainwashed, a term that has been used to describe the Machel madness, for years.
Iwer George’s “Savannah” has suddenly been pushed back it would seem, with Montano’s weekend release. PHOTO CREDIT: Jermaine Cruickshank
Iwer George, Patrice Roberts, Ricardo Drue and some say, Shurwayne Winchester all have tunes that are deserving of equal airplay for a chance at the coveted Road March – the song that is most played for masqueraders to cross the various judging points, on Carnival Monday and Tuesday. No airplay or little airplay would obviously equate to less than thunderous reception from the masses at fetes. When that is experienced, DJs then cast the songs that receive little reaction to the back of the pack. FAIR OR NOT? You tell us.
Montano meanwhile, is preparing for his Machel Monday concert event he has aptly coined, “Soca Kingdom”. That takes place on February 5th with tickets being sold for $300, $600 and $1200 for General, VIP and Platinum All Inclusive, respectively. He performs at Army Fete on February 2nd at the Queen’s Park Savannah where as we understand it, every Road March contender will have the chance to show the crowd the strength of their contender prior to the Road March race.
Ricardo Drue’s Intensity is certainly a Road March contender but airplay has been minimal.
Ebuzz News
‘I Am Legend’ Concert Promoter, Glenroy Watson Has Passed Away.
Caribbean Buzz
Destra Delivers Powerfully at Reflections.
“If this sharing that I’m doing touches anyone, I’m truly grateful. None of us are perfect. Some days you’ll feel good, some days you won’t, but it’s all part of the journey. Sometimes what you’re looking for is right on the horizon, and the moment you give up, you miss it. If my testimony makes anyone feel something, then my work here is done.” – DESTRA GARCIA
Trinidad and Tobago received a musical showcase of spiritual awakening yet again this past Saturday, at Destra’s ‘Reflections: Sound. Spirit. Surrender.” The event took place at Queen’s Hall, St. Ann’s and proved to be a truly inspiring and uplifting musical experience.
From the onset, the show set a standard that fans of good music with powerful lyrics, would rave about for weeks. David Rudder – a cultural icon of Calypso music out of Trinidad and Tobago, welcomed the audience as he hit the stage first delivering the very fitting, ‘High Mas.’ It was a powerful blessing no doubt – something that would lead into a seamless spiritual production. He was subsequently joined on stage by Destra, something that created a full-circle moment that drew immediate emotion from the audience.
Known for her unmistakeable vocal ability, Destra took her audience on a carefully curated musical journey, opening her set with Free Again before transitioning into slowed-down, soul-stirring renditions of some of her most beloved songs, including Love Somebody and Fly and with each performance, she revealed a different layer of her artistry, offering vulnerability, reflection, and strength.
One of the night’s most touching highlights came as Garcia shared the stage with her daughter, Xaiya, for a heartfelt duet of The Prayer. Beginning at the piano, Xaiya gently set the tone before joining her mother in song, creating an intimate moment that resonated deeply with the audience.
The production, which was creatively directed by Zara Bartels and Isoke Edwards, also showcased the incredible talent of father and son pan duo Martin and De’jean Cain as well as the Maria Regina Grade School and St. Joseph’s Convent Port- of- Spain choirs, whose vibrant and polished performances brought a refreshing, youthful energy to the stage. Gospel artiste, Nisa joined Garcia for a powerful duet of Bridge Over Troubled Water. She also performed her original composition Make Me Over, adding another layer of spiritual depth to the evening.
As the show built toward its finale, Garcia delivered a commanding rendition of Ella Andall’s Bring Down the Power, followed by classic hymns including A Little More Oil in My Lamp. This climactic segment was elevated by the presence of traditional belle dancers and African drummers, creating a rich, cultural fusion that brought the audience to its feet. Beyond the performances, the overall production, brought to life through Bridgette Wilson’s choreography and Atiba Borde’s costuming, stood out for its seamless execution, immersive ambience, and thoughtful storytelling, reinforcing Reflections as more than just a concert, but a transformative experience.
Reflections certainly delivered a powerful blend of music, filled with deep messages and meaning. In what is a very spiritual season, Destra, through the delivery of ‘Reflections,’ has carved out a space for inspiration and connection within Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape – something that many would agree, is a necessity more than an option.