Ebuzz News
Archived: Covid Taught Him the Value of Time. Now, Gvon is Delivering Chutney Soca Vibes Right on Time.
There’s no such thing as a box when it comes to creativity. That’s the reality seen by one of Trinidad and Tobago’s entertainers who’s delivered and continues to share music that does not keep him boxed into any one genre. Gvon released a brand-new Chutney Soca single on Friday. He believes the entertainment landscape is ripe for the return of some semblance of normalcy and with that, this Southside entertainer is pulling up his socks.
The past two years have been uncertain for many Caribbean artistes and entertainment stakeholders. Gvon, a relatively longstanding member of the fraternity with 12- years-worth of work put in, says he’s eager to be a part of any revival the industry sees going forward. Already, he has unleashed two brand new Soca Parang singles for the Christmas season, along with a Soca track in anticipation of Carnival 2022. Earlier this week, news emerged that carnival stakeholders were meeting to discuss the possibility of hosting Carnival in T&T next year.
Gvon, like many in the industry, is keeping his ears peeled.
Even without confirmation though, the artist- the son of one of the founding members of the T&TEC Gayatones, is committed to bringing the music. “‘Bring D’ Rum’ is not a rum song. It’s a love song,” said the San Fernando based artist. As funny as his words may sound, he’s very serious, explaining that this tune is all about love… albeit, for rum. It certainly isn’t the first Chutney soca anthem laced with lyrics that highlight a drink that’s enjoyed by many in the Caribbean and certainly worldwide.
Gvon has been off the Chutney Soca radar for quite some time, having placed most of his energy over the years into developing himself as a Soca artist, and while he admits to having started off as a Chutney Soca entertainer, he also makes it very clear that the pull to Soca was as natural as breathing. “I just love music. I don’t have a specific genre of choice, but there’s something about Soca music that just fills my soul,” he said. Now Gvon returns, and is promising that he’ll be first in line to sign up should there be a 2022 Chutney Soca Monarch competition in T&T.
Amid the rigors of present-day circumstances, Gvon, whose real name is Sajivan Gayadeen, says the pandemic has taught him a great deal about
time. “I’ve learnt that time is the most valuable thing. We have lost two years and that’s something we should never forget. It’s taught me the importance of humility; And by now everyone should understand the importance of being appreciative of everything in their lives, no matter how little it may seem to be.”
With plans for the release of a couple additional songs in the coming months, Gvon who owns Trini Mascots Party Rentals says plans are underway to assist artistes and others in entertainment. A new company- Gvon Entertainment, is set to come on stream soon, and he says it will focus on helping artistes and others in the industry develop themselves with the right tools and the expertise of the right people. For now, however, Gvon is excited to bring some Chutney Soca love to one and all with the release of, ‘Bring D’ Rum,’ a track that many would agree, has come right on time. And what’s better, the song comes complete with its own music video.
For more on Gvon, follow him on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and Twitter @gvon.music.
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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.