Ebuzz News
Fetters Set to Frolic Later as Ken Simmons Revitalizes Carnival Friday.
For the very first time in the Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival space, an event that is focused entirely on the absolute enjoyment of all patrons, over all else, is being touted as a must attend fete. The food-inclusive shin dig, dubbed ‘Frolic’ is the brainchild of one of the country’s most pronounced radio personalities and hosts, Ken Simmons. This Friday, Ken’s highly anticipated, ‘Frolic’ debut will shut down any question surrounding the existing energy of Carnival Friday, laying to rest any concerns had about the vibe this once powerful and fantastic day on the carnival calendar, delivered to the world arriving on the island’s doorsteps.
“What we’re doing here is solidifying our carnival again. It’s important to us, as stakeholders in this cultural space, to ensure that the world seen, recognizes and understands that we hold fast to our festival,” said Simmons. Following Carnival 2024, Ken met with prominent event promoter, Cliff Harris of TropixEntertainment – a tremendous force in the industry over many years. Together they resolved to make Carnival Friday an immeasurable success once again.
“After years of The International Soca Monarch being the main showcase on Carnival Friday, its departure from the calendar, in our view, left a void to be filled,” said Simmons. The ‘Frolic’ concept was born out of Ken’s desire to lift the spirits of his people – many of whom have supported him along his journey in entertainment, attending his annual boat rides in droves, and leaving many desirous of just one opportunity to experience a Ken Simmons event.
On Friday, the event, which is being hosted at Queen’s Hall, St. Ann’s, will feature major Soca stars like Bunji Garlin, Farmer Nappy, Lyrikal and Mical Teja. “This is more than just a fete to attend. Frolic is going to be an immersive sort of experience. We’re bridging any gaps that may have presented itself over the years, between entertainment and service, culture and people. We’re bringing back ‘feel good’ carnival vibes, reintroducing the joy of feting and mingling, sharing the culture as one human race, and reminding those who attend that it all starts and ends with love,” said Ken.
The food inclusive event will allow patrons to attend withcoolers or patronize the bar, and one thing’s for certain, this event, built from a place of passion and true excitement, is going to be one of the most high- energy events heading into the Carnival weekend. “One of the things I pride myself on is impact. I always want to know that no matter what, the impact of the offering, is long lasting and memorable,” shared Ken. He noted that Frolic’s menu on will include, Jamaican food, Creole dishes, exquisite Mediterranean delights a Live Pasta station, Italian dishes, Chinese, Indian food, Trinidad and Tobago cuisine and deserts of all sorts.
Ebuzz News
“This Project Come from a Real Place — From Loss, Learning, Faith.” – POPCAAN.
Dancehall artiste Popcorn has released an album rooted in gratitude and grounded in real-life experiences, he says. The artiste says, “Nothing Without God ” showcases his evolution.
Originally completed and scheduled for release prior to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, the artiste’s latest catalogue of work is created with a message of strength, faith, and restoration and now stands as a powerful reflection of resilience, one that may serve as a source of hope and inspiration for many in current times.
More than a collection of songs, ‘Nothing Without God’ hears Popcaan blend gratitude, reflection, and perseverance, offering both comfort and motivation to his fans around the world.
“This project comes from a real place — from loss, from learning, and from faith,” said Popcaan. “We’ve all been through so much, and I just want people to remember that no matter how rough it gets, God never leave us. He carry we through the storm every time.”
The 14-track album features collaborations that highlight unity, purpose, and inner peace. Lead singles “Immortal Life” and “Nothing Without God” set the tone celebrating divine protection and the power of gratitude, while songs like “Family First” (featuring Natebadz) and “Kick It Wid
A Timely Soundtrack for Healing and Hope
As the island of Jamaica rebuilds and communities unite to recover from the storm, Popcaan’s ‘Nothing Without God’ serves as a soundtrack for healing. It’s a testament to resilience and a reminder that with every test comes testimony, and through every storm comes new growth.
“It’s not just about me or music,” Popcaan explained. “It’s about the people, the country, and remembering that we’re still blessed. Jamaica strong, and God still deh yah.”
Ebuzz News
100 Days To T&T Carnival – Big Launch, Big Vibes to Hit Port of Spain, this Friday.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Greatest Show on Earth has, for years, been a tourist attraction. With 100 days to go before the two-day street parade in Port-of-Spain, the excitement is steadily building and with momentum, the National Carnival Commission is moving full speed ahead.
Carnival 2026 will be publicly launched at the Brian Lara Promenade on Friday, November 7th. The NCC, in a media release said the spectacle will begin at 9am and go through the day, transforming the city’s hub into an active thoroughfare featuring all things T&T carnival. Th event will feature traditional Carnival characters, informative workshops and exhibitions, a mini concert from reigning Panorama champions, Republic Bank Exodus Steel Orchestra, and much more. “In bringing Carnival to the city, we’re hoping to bring people to the city to come out and show their support for the culture, for the NCC, the Special Interest Groups, the vendors and small business community, and the Regional Carnivals because we’re all part of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival,” said NCC Chairman, Peter Kanhai.
TEACHING THE YOUTH ABOUT CARNIVAL
This year, the NCC will introduce something they’re calling, “The Children’s Zone,” where school children and their parents and guardians will be able to experience a distinct youth-oriented energy to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival. The zone will feature cultural exhibitions, displays, giveaways and more, even offering youths the opportunity to pen a ‘Love Letter to Carnival.’ “School children would be invited to write what it is they love about Trinidad and Tobago Carnival for a mural that will be displayed at the Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah for Carnival next year,” the press release explained.
At 4pm, a concert will engage the public with performances by Swappi, Terri Lyons, Orlando Octave, Ravi B, Drupatee, Shal Marshall, Erphaan Alves and other featured cultural acts.
Back in August, at the corporate launch of Carnival, Minister of Culture, the Arts and Community Development, Michelle Benjamin, shared her ministry’s vision for carnival.
