Ebuzz News
Archived: Bunji Gets Deep, Talks Success After A Stop At The 'Pharm
It’s no secret that soca artiste Bunji Garlin’s come from the streets, and has made it to the rich hills of Moka and beyond. Throughout his career, he’s highlighted a lot through verse and chorus and even though he’s making great inroads to international fame, possibly becoming a phenom in the world of Soca, Bunji remains grounded, taking time every now and again to check himself and review his steps.
Bunji Garlin says a lack of support is often a blessing in disguise.
As September winds down and the Carnival 2015 season rears its head, seems like Bunji’s thinking of his success, the support he’s gotten and the lack of it in some instances.
The artiste took to Instagram this morning to remind West Indians of the character they’re capable of building with a lack of support in some instances from the outside world. Bunji and others in the Soca fraternity have worked arduously over the years to get the genre recognized by music masters in parts abroad- in parts considered the mainstream music market. This morning, Bunji expressed a sentiment that called on West Indians to embrace even a lack of support, explaining that its often a blessing in disguise…
“You don’t do something because you expect support, you do it because you feel purposed to do it. As West Indians we all know it is no secret that support barely comes in all we do, from the outside world and our very own domain. That doesn’t mean we hold people to ransom for it. It is what it is. It is a blessing in disguise because when you feel alone or feel like very few stand with you, you develop character, you discover things about yourself you didn’t know existed. Accept it. Embrace it. Allow the nothingness to happen and there you will discover a ‘you’ that you have never seen.”~ BUNJI GARLIN
Super Blue
PHOTO CREDIT: T&T Guardian
Meanwhile, the soca Viking was spotted by EBUZZ indulging in a little after dark shopping at SuperPharm in Maraval last evening. Wondering what was in his basket? Well, we spotted a loaf of whole wheat bread, some Bayer Advil among other things and all the while, Bunji cooly stood in line, scrolling through his smartphone and waiting for his turn to be rung up at the cash register.
Also making an appearance at the popular stop on Sunday night was none other than the Viking’s father-in-law, King Austin ‘SuperBlue’ Lyons. Now, that’s what we call a double dose of celeb sightings!
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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.