Ebuzz News
Archived: Bunji Goes Against The Musical Grain- Denounces Anti-Homosexual Claims
Bunji Garlin is the featured artiste on a recently released remixed single that also features Chris Brown, would you believe? According to Major Lazer’s Jillioniare, who was featured speaking on the topic of Soca music, on www.mtviggy.com earlier this week, collaborations between soca artistes and international artistes, isn’t such a far fetched prospect. We guess this proves it!
EDM Producer, Reid Stefan is behind the remix of Main Chick
“Main Chick”, the single we’re focusing on, was originally sung by MC and producer Kid Ink but the remix was done by popular EDM producer, Reid Stefan. Chris Brown’s voice is heard on the track alongside T&T’s Garlin and already the song’s been getting some traction locally. It’s not soca- not in the least but Bunji proves he’s capable of delivering on any beat, once given the opportunity.
The local entertainer’s name was recently called in an online article relative to alleged anti-gay lyrics. The story, which was posted on July 28th, called for an apology from Bunji for the lyrics sung in his 2005 hit single, ‘Blaze De Fire’. The call was made by Toronto based, Trinidadian ceramic artiste, Adam Williams. Williams even went as far as filing a complaint, outlining his concerns with the Caribana committee in Toronto. That however, didn’t reach very far as we’ve learnt that the committee received a letter from Bunji’s team, which was reviewed and accepted.
Bunji Garlin continues to conquer musical territories….
Speaking with EBUZZ last week, wife and band mate, Fay-Ann Lyons- Alvarez said the situation seemed a bit suspicious and pointed out that several members of the homosexual community in Trinidad and Tobago, have over the years, sought asylum in Canada and have insinuated that homesexuality is treated as a criminal offense in T&T. She said her team felt an apology was unnecessary as the song, delivered some 9 years ago, was not intended to cast aspersion against the Gay and Lesbian community.
Bunji Garlin meanwhile continues to engage the world. This Sunday, the Viking performs at a special event being held in London. In an Instagram post on Wednesday, he said Viking 15 was being hosted by a special group of people he considers family.
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.