While the EDM sound that’s been resonating out of T&T in recent time may be doing the genre good overseas, truth of the matter is, there remain many in the soca loving isle of Carnival and parts in the region, who yearn for that sweet, melodious accent of the genre that honours its predecessor, Calypso. The storytelling has been traded in these days, for the beat of a tough sounding drum and less percussions. Nevertheless, we here at EBUZZ support the growth of the genre regardless of what form it takes- as long as it remains “SOCA.
Shurwayne Winchester could create an upset
Now, while the world at large may have been focused on Kim Kardashian’s bare backside on the cover of the Paper Magazine yesterday, we were more excited about something we heard on YouTube- something fresh yet so old, something that’s guaranteed to bridge the gap between youths and the young at heart at fetes during Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival next year.
Shurwayne Winchester’s been delivering over the years, but to many DJs and rulers of the airwaves, his singles just weren’t enough to grant him a place among the heavy hitters of carnivals of recent years. Seems like the Tobago boy has been doing his homework though. He obviously realised that as a groovy soca man, he had to link up with De Red Boyz out of Barbados and he had to bring back that percussion and live sound that was re-introduced to the soca arena by Farmer Nappy in 2014. His new track, ‘Shake It’ is a hit! The song plays on the emotions of true Caribbean people, speaking of traditional food and seasonings would you believe?…and inviting women to shake it, no doubt!
Shurwayne’s got one in the bag… or two for that matter, since his first track, ‘We Pumpin’ has been pumping across the airwaves.
Now, remember this is a man of experience, having copped several Power, Groovy and Road March titles over the years. Keep an eye on him.. you never know, he may be the upset in a soca world where Machel Montano reigns as king and Bunji Garlin, the Dark Knight.
Like a breath of fresh air, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s very own rising stars has been added to the Easter cast of a major festival happening on the island. Coutain, a reserved Sangre Grande entertainer who’s been making waves, though humbly, is the one of the latest names plugged to entertain visitors to Tobago, and locals alike, at the Buccoo Seafood and Jazz event.
Coutain’s rise to prominence say him take Carnival 2025 by storm, performing at several major events and showcasing a unique essence that’s likable and palatable to all demographics. Songs like ‘Junction,’ ‘Artform’ ‘Jamtown’ with Tano, and ‘Carnival Darling’ with GBM Nutron, form part of the artiste’s enticing catalogue. An organic and true undercurrent that’s proven effective in marketing the artiste, now sees him stand alongside the likes of International superstars, Brian McKnight and Jon Secada in Tobago on April 19th.
The Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival aims to deliver a showcase of rich, cultural engagement this Easter and despite an election shadow, all efforts have remained strong in promoting the importance of showcasing Tobago’s tourism product, to the world.
Last week, the announcement of Buju Banton’s sudden replacement as a result of illness within his camp, led to some concern, however with Stephen Marley now headlining the Easter Sunday, ‘Fusion’ concert event alongside the likes of Gramps Morgan, Wayne Wonder, Singing Melody, Kes The Band and others, the show, according to organizers, is gearing up to be a highlight of the calendar year in Tobago.
Coutain, along with former Road March King, Mical Teja and St. Lucia’s Teddyson John, will be among the star studded line-up this Easter weekend in a festival that’s being touted as transformative and energizing on Trinidad’s sister isle.
A near carbon copy of the original and still, a powerful force in reggae music on his own, Stephen Marley graces the shores of Trinidad and Tobago this Easter. The artiste’s imminent arrival has been prompted by the unforeseen postponement of Buju Banton’s appearance in Tobago this year. For true fans of reggae music however, Stephen’s name is a breath of fresh air – a ‘Marley’ having been absent from the local entertainment and concert scene, since 2012.
Stephen Marley is an 8 time Grammy Award winning artiste.
Stephen, is by all measure, the living, breathing spirit of the late, great, Bob Marley. An eight-time Grammy Award winner, Bob’s second child with wife, Rita Marley has stood firm in the trenches for his father’s mission of empowering mankind through music, melody and lyrical prowess.
The Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival, with organisers, the Tobago Festival Commission, keenly cognizant of the need to inject positive music and energy into the twin island Republic, has chosen this powerhouse entertainer to stand in for Buju at this time, confident that his timeless music, will engage the masses. “Challenge comes with growth. This festival will ultimately blossom into a product that Trinidad and Tobago can essentially be very proud of. As we develop the brand and build from the foundation up, we’re tremendously happy for the outpouring of support we’ve been receiving,” said Kern Cowan – CEO of the Tobago Festivals Commission.
The inclusion of the elder Marley on the Easter Sunday ‘Fusion’ cast, amplifies the commitment of the organisers, to ensuring that no stone is left unturned in satisfying the people of Trinidad and Tobago and those who will visit for the holiday weekend. “We’re excitedly moving full speed ahead with systems on overdrive to accommodate our visitors. Tobago is a beautiful destination for anyone interested in absorbing life’s natural blessings. The island truly has it all – beauty, serenity, nature and now, with a product like this one, we’re ultimately showcasing the possibilities,” said Cowan.
Across the Caribbean, tourist destinations are a dime a dozen. The simplicity of Tobago’s eco-focused aesthetic however delivers something unique to those who’ve done the ‘magazine-destinations’ time and time again. “Music is fundamental to life and so we knew that in order to better highlight and market Tobago in its most authentic way, we could not overpower the energy of the island, but rather, compliment it. For that reason, we’ve created a festival that soothes, regenerates and uplifts,” said Cowan.
His father’s voice perfectly synced to his, Stephen Marley will penetrate Trinidad and Tobago at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Tobago, on Easter Sunday. He will be joined by the likes of Gramps Morgan, Wayne Wonder, Singing Melody and more. The stage is set for what is being touted as a transformative experience in Trinidad and Tobago.
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