Elevation requires separation. For Richard Valentine, the entertainer known as Chynee, or to some, Macoy – his earlier years in music have led him on a journey of development as an artiste. Years after winning the Synergy Soca Star competition, the East, Trinidad native is back in the mix, releasing new Soca music and connecting the dots as he builds a career that he knows he’ll be proud of.
“In 2009, I was young. When I won the Synergy Soca Star competition, it was a whirlwind for me. I performed at major fetes like Licensing Fete, Insomnia, UWI Fete and even Alternative Concepts- my most memorable because I actually shared the stage with Chinese Laundry and Machel Montano, but it was all happening really fast,” he admitted, explaining that he feels that despite being crowned the competition’s winner, he was not mature enough then, to grow and learn the essentials of the music business. Fast Forward to 2025 and Chynee is now on the road to a potentially memorable carnival season in T&T. “Over the past few years, I’ve been working on my development, recording a lot of music and working behind the scenes with many producers. I’m in the process of completing an EP,” he said, adding, “I challenged myself to just record music with the understanding that when the time is right, each of the projects would be shared with the world, as professionally packaged as possible.”
Chynee is also known as Macoy.
Years ago, while still a youth in Trinidad and Tobago, Chynee had very little understanding of marketing strategies. He simply enjoyed performing and was pretty good at delivering vibrant, memorable performances. He would however grow to understand that the music industry is sustained by other essential variables, among them, marketing and branding. “I realized that a lot of times artistes would go into the studio with what they believed were great songs, but they would fail to get the attention they hoped for because their marketing and branding just weren’t enough,” he said.
Over the years, Chynee has worked with producers like Badjohn Republic, Zig Boi Entertainment, Backyard Studios, Klase Productions and even Richard ‘Charsu’ Ahong – one of the country’s most prolific music producers. These days however, he’s hard at work with Sangre Grande’s Chainlinxxx Productions. Their latest project, ‘Ben’ has already been released and Chynee says it’s been an amazing journey working alongside Chainlinxxx. “As an artiste, I’ve come to realize the importance of team work. You really do go further when you’ve got a progressive team of people. I have to thank Chainlinxxx, also Unique Productions – a very talented youngster by the name of Allen Sylvester who’s doing the video and editing for ‘Ben.’ I am also happy to be working with Edward Salandy of E-Video and Photography. They did my photoshoot, which I’m really satisfied with.” With support coming from other entertainers in the industry like Fadda Moses and rapper, Vetta, Chynee says he is grateful for his team.
Amid a State of Emergency in Trinidad and Tobago, the entertainer has been pensive. “I’m a strong believer in prayer and praying for others. It’s worth more when you pray for other people than when you just pray for yourself, but I also believe that action works in tandem with prayer. We must be vigilant,” he said, adding that he believes something drastic had to be done for a better Trinidad and Tobago. “I hope it works in favor of all of us,” he shared.
The Macoya born entertainer whose sobriquet, Macoy entertains the idea of being ‘the real thing’ and plays on the root of his place of birth, is excited for the season ahead. A second single done collaboratively with a new female artiste by the name of Majestic, is also in the pipeline. “She’s a very talented young lady with an amazing voice,” he highlighted, eager to be a part of her entry onto the Soca scene.
As Chynee navigates the season, he says he will do as he always has – observe and learn from the artistes who’ve mastered their craft and those who’ve built great brands and mastered the art of marketing themselves. “I’m naturally a theatrical performer. I will always go the extra mile to leave a lasting impression on the crowd. When I think of Iwer George and what he brings to any stage, I get excited. The crowd loves him and that’s what I would like to experience in my career,” he said.
For now, however, Chynee – The Real Macoy is focused on building his name, igniting the hearts of Soca lovers with good music and delivering a dynamic performance style that will leave a lasting memory.
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.”
The song was born out of Anisha’s concern for the people of T&T. “It’s really a mixture of concern, frustration and hope. This song addresses the growing impact that crime and violence continues to have on families, communities and the youth,” she declared, adding that it serves as a heartfelt appeal for the population to reflect on what society has become, while establishing a blueprint for a better future. “If this song encourages even one young person to choose a different path, or reminds communities that love, respect and unity still matter, then I’d consider it a success,” she said.
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.”
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.
“This song is about being unashamed of who you are in Christ,” says JrDynamite. “In a world where people are constantly pressured to fit in, I wanted to create a song that encourages believers to stand out, stand firm, and represent Jesus with confidence.”
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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