Ebuzz News
Iwer George Did No Wrong- Contract States Promoters To Provide Permits, Says Anson George.
Claims from co-promoters of a Mother’s Day event in Brooklyn New York, this past May that soca artiste Iwer George failed to appear, despite receiving a 50% downpayment, are today being disputed by George’s management. Anson George, Iwer’s manager today told ETCETERABUZZ that the allegations are simply, not true.
In our chat with George, it was revealed that Iwer’s appearance at the event was being done as more or less a favour to their friend, Edwin from VP records. The gig, dubbed a “dying show” by Anson George was being done for less than the normal figure usually presented to promoters, for the act. “We don’t even know who the promoters are, we were merely doing a favour for Edwin who asked us to do the show because the show was dying. We were trying to help out the situation,” said Anson.
Iwer ‘The Boss’ George
Explaining that it was the sole responsibility of the show’s promotional outfit to attain work permits for the artiste and his team, something that is indicated in their contract, Anson told us that the work permits were not ready on time and as such, they were unable to attend. He also disclosed that contractually, all down payments made to Iwer George are non-refundable. “We did change the flight dates for the tickets but this was only because Iwer had another event to perform at, here in Trinidad. We re-scheduled to a date that would still allow us enough time to get to New York in time for the show.”
Anson George told ETCETERABUZZ exclusively that they have since told the promoters they are willing to do another show for them on a future date, even agreeing to fly there at their own cost, however, judging by yesterday’s issuance of a press release on the issue by co-promoters, ‘Everybody’s Caribbean magazine’, we can safely assume that they will not be accepting this option.
Anson said he is disappointed that the situation has come to this and in light of threats of a lawsuit he says they have a contract that clearly states deposits are non refundable and work permits are to be organised by show promoters. He said often time artistes bear the pain of not being paid by promoters and it is never made a public scandal, explaining that this has in fact happened before. Asked of Iwer’s reaction to the situation, Anson told us Iwer is busy dealing with a situation that arose a couple weekends ago on his boat- the Coral Vision. “Right now, Iwer isn’t in the right frame of mind to deal with this particular issue. He’s busy with the boat,” said Anson.
Iwer George will perform across the Caribbean in the weeks ahead.
Now, here’s a look at the media release issued by Everybody’s Caribbean
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IS SOCA ARTIST IWER GEORGE A THIEF?
Greetings!
There is reason why we did not thank everyone earlier who attended our Mother’s Day Concert at Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, NY especially fans who came from as far as MA, CT, MD and Washington, DC.
We thank you wholeheartedly for coming to the concert. We apologize for the delay acknowledgement. Here is the explanation.
We were trying to find out the reason why Iwer George did not appear at the concert after we paid him almost 50% deposit fee, sent him the two roundtrip airline tickets from Trinidad & Tobago to NY and reserved two hotel rooms he requested in his contract and then forward you, the fan, his excuse.
Iwer George, Anson George, his manager and Larry Williams, his agent, gave us George’s travelling dates before the airline tickets were purchased. Iwer George and Anson George were booked to arrive in NY on May 9, 2013; then their agent Williams said they changed the airline tickets to May 10 and then to May 11.
Almost a month later, we have not heard from Iwer George who cashed the two checks and Anson George who created the contract on behalf of Neil Iwer George. A few days after the concert, we heard from their agent, Larry Williams, who signed the contract on Iwer Neil George and Anson George behalf stating that he was unable to contact Iwer George.
We gave them enough time to contact us. By not contacting us, we conclude that Iwer Neil George, manager Anson George and agent Larry Williams conspired to defraud us by entering into a contract, deliberately taking and cashing our checks, have us pay for two airline tickets knowing that the artist did not intend to appear.
Both checks were payable to Neil George and Neil George, better known as Iwer George, cashed them.
We had no other recourse but to take legal actions against Neil Iwer George, Anson George and Larry Williams; amongst the penalties we are requesting of the court is an injunction barring Neil Iwer George from performing in the U.S. and the USVI.
We hoped to settle the matter privately so that one artist’s thievery will not be a reflection of honest and decent calypso and soca artists. Unfortunately, Neil Iwer George, Anson George and Larry Williams have ignored us.
It’s about time one takes legal actions against corrupt calypso and soca performers and their agents who rob promoters and the public.
We do not plan to issue any more public statements.
We apologize for not presenting Iwer George as advertised and hope fans will attend next year’s concert when we will make every attempt NOT to hire dishonest, unprofessional, scrupulous and unethical performers such as Iwer George.
Sincerely,
The co-promoters
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Ebuzz News
New Soca Monarch- Like Show Coming. Organisers to Look At Calendar of Events in Preparation for The Way Forward.
A competition or similar type cultural showcase in carnival, is set to be unveiled in the weeks ahead. Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism, revealed the appointment of Star Global Productions Limited, to organize and deliver the large-scale carnival 2025 event. The new event will take the place of the International Soca Monarch – a competition which started in T&T in 1993 but dwindled by 2020.
The Production team consists of The Lollabee Group, businessman, Adrian Chandler and media personality and artiste, Jerome Priscilla. “We are excited to partner with the consortium led by Star Global Productions Limited in reimagining the Soca competition for Carnival 2025,” said Minister Randal Mitchell. “This competition will, not only showcase the best in Soca music but will also play a vital role in enhancing Trinidad and Tobago’s standing as a premier cultural and tourist destination,” he added. The Minister went on to articulate the ministry’s anticipation, saying, “We are eager to bring this vibrant aspect of our Carnival to the forefront, furthering the growth of our creative industries and promoting the rich cultural heritage of our nation.”
Via media release, the Ministry noted that on July 29, 2024, an Expression of Interest (EOl) was issued, inviting individuals and organisations to submit proposals for the development and management of a Soca competition. The EOl closed on August 23, 2024, with eight (8) submissions received. Following the receipt of those submissions, the Ministry issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to the interested parties on October 29, 2024, which closed on November 19th 2024. It said a rigorous evaluation process was conducted to select a partner for revitalising the competition and advancing the country’s Tourism, Culture, and Arts industries. “It is to be noted that out of the three (3) submissions received following the issuance of the RFP, Star Global Productions Limited’s proposal stood out as the most comprehensive and strategically aligned with the Ministry’s vision for the Carnival 2025 Soca competition,” stated the media release. It added, “Star Global Productions Limited brings expertise in managing large-scale events and producing culturally significant programming, making them an ideal partner to bring this vibrant competition to life.”
The media release explained that Star Global Productions Limited will now plan, organise and implement its proposal, taking into consideration the calendar of events confirmed for the Carnival 2025 period. “The consortium will enter into discussions with the Ministry to finalize arrangements for the competition,” the statement ended.
For the past four years, many have lamented the decline of the International Soca Monarch. Once owned by Caribbean Prestige Foundation founder, William Munroe, the event was subsequently passed around to other major players in Arts and Culture, Media and Business. The pandemic’s sudden strike in 2019 led to a digitally formatted effort by organizers and now, it is left to be seen whether patronage of the once mammoth Carnival competition, will return to its glory days.
At its inception, soca stars like Machel Montano, Iwer George, Mr. Killa, Fay Ann Lyons, Bunji Garlin, Iwer George, Shurwayne Winchester, SuperBlue, Shal Marshall, Voice, Farmer Nappy, Benjai, Blaxx and countless others, delivered spectacular artistry, complete with props and dancers, fireworks and thrilling showmanship, to insatiable audiences who showed their support from the Semi Final showcase at the Arima Velodrome in East Trinidad to the finals on Fantastic Friday at the National Stadium. The memories of those incredible years of high momentum carnival fever, remain etched in the hearts of many.
Caribbean Buzz
Skinny Banton Sets the Tone with ‘Liquor’ ; Reminds Real Revelers of Vibes in Store.
As Carnival 2025 in Trinidad and Tobago looms, one of the Caribbean’s most unique and intriguing male artistes, Skinny Banton, is gearing up to make his mark in a big way. With his latest release, Liquor, already causing waves, the Grenadian-born artist is proving he’s here to stay, bringing his personal style, and down- home Caribbean spirit to a global audience.
It’s been five years since his unforgettable hit, Wrong Again, took the world by storm and the track remains a fan favorite to this day. Its infectious energy and authentic vibe solidified Skinny as an artiste to watch, and since then, his music has resonated with listeners across the region and internationally. His ability to blend catchy rhythms with meaningful lyrics has made him a staple in Caribbean music, while his sound remains a perfect blend of traditional influences and contemporary flair.
The Jab culture of Grenada has always been a source of inspiration for the Carriacou native. But it’s not just one island or one genre that defines him. Skinny draws from the wider Caribbean experience, creating music that speaks to all the islands, enticing the international crowd along the way. As he explains, his music isn’t confined to one place or one story; It’s about sharing the universal joy of the Caribbean with the world.
“Music is for everyone,” says Skinny. “It’s not about where you’re from. It’s about connecting people from different walks of life through rhythm, melody, and energy. When people come to Carnival, they’re looking for an experience that will stay with them forever, and I want to be a part of that.”
Ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s 2025 Carnival, Liquor is quickly becoming one of those intrinsic songs. With its irresistible beat and carefree lyrics, the song is a celebration of the Caribbean spirit — the good times, the laughter, and yes, the drinks that fuel the party. “This is a song for the drinkers, the ones who bring the vibes to the Carnival with every sip they take,” Skinny laughs. “But remember — everything in moderation! You don’t want to be the one ruining the vibes for everyone else.”
Last year, Carriacou, the artiste’s home island, was devastated by Hurricane Beryl. Amid that unfortunate circumstance, he stood up with a sense of determination to draw awareness to the plight of those left to clean up and get their lives back to normal. His popularity as an entertainer, aided somewhat in that effort as he was able to assist with food and necessities for those affected. Through his artistry, Skinny continues to shine a spotlight on his roots, celebrating the vibrant culture and resilience of his community.
In Trinidad recently, he reconnected with fans of his music, sharing the new songs ahead of the 2025 Carnival season. “Music is the universal language,” he said. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what language you speak. What matters is that it makes you feel something — and that’s what I try to give. The people know good music. They need music to lift their spirits, make them move, and sing along,” he explained, adding, “That’s what I strive to provide — music that resonates, that connects, music that brings people together.”
To stay connected with Skinny Banton and get the latest on his upcoming music and Carnival appearances, follow him on Instagram and Facebook @skinnybanton.
