Ebuzz News
Island Lime Magazine Set to Take Caribbean Energy to Global Heights.
Both hard copy and digital, IslandLime Magazine’s on a mission. In the ever-expanding world that we now occupy, efforts continue to share the most authentic Caribbean energy, with everyone outside the Diaspora. It’s not a new idea but the man behind it has all the gumption it takes to make it make sense.
Simon Baptiste says his team’s vision is to create a global platform that allows for the stories of Caribbean creators and creatives, to be shared with people around the world – people who are anxious to discover more about the heartbeat of the region. “Although we recognize the importance of what goes on within our region, there are also hundreds of tales – fiction and non fiction, being crafted by islanders in territories that stretch from North America ti Australia,” he said in a recent Ebuzztt chat. “It’s our job to reveal the players and the art.”
The magazine’s official launch took place on July 4th in Port- of- Spain, Trinidad and featured performances by Key DeVere and John G. In the aftermath of the launch, Simon issued a statement, thanking folks who came out in support. He explained that the rationale behind delivering the project now, lies in understanding that we – the Caribbean people, built nations. “A chain of over 700 islands, encompassing 1,063,000 square miles, has produced incomparable talent- people who have left and continue to leave an indelible mark on art, fashion, music, literature, entertainment, sports, science and technology,” he wrote. Baptiste praised his people, adding, “From Capitol Hill, to working spaces in Nairobi, to the offices of an advertising agency, Down Under, you’ll find someone who has island roots, and spreads the philosophy of what makes the Caribbean and its people so unbelievably spectacular.”
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.