What does it take to be a soca artiste? Well, that’s a matter for discussion. For now however we’ll state the facts as we see it. Radio and television personality, Mr. Smooth of urban radio station, Boomchampions 94.1FM recently added himself to the cadre of popular radio heavyweights in Trinidad who are on the speedy Soca train. Whether he’ll stick it out for years to come, like Shal Marshal, Jaiga and 5 Star Akil have, is something to watch for, but for now, the newest soca head-turner’s making the best of the opportunity, telling ETCETERABUZZ.COM this week that he’s going hard into the carnival 2014 season.
The track’s called ‘Ah Like Dat’ and was written and produced by Don Iko of Martian Music. Smooth says the vocals were laid at SASS studio in East Trinidad, in just about 90 minutes- this despite initially having doubts about getting into the soca game. He was egged on by his friends at SASS studio, Nadia Batson and of course, Don Iko who told him he could do it, which, by the end of it all, he certainly proved he could. In the past two days, the single has been receiving quite a bit of love as online fans of the radio personality attest to their satisfaction with every aspect of the new track.
The move is one that could send some fiery soca artistes into beast mode as they will undoubtedly face the competition of yet another radio personality jumping head first into their arena, but based on the feedback from the public, relative to the single, the music is definitely speaking for itself.
Well known event promoter, Glenroy Watson, has passed away. He died of natural causes on April 1st, in Port -of- Spain, Trinidad.
Watson’s legacy in the event landscape in Trinidad and Tobago stands as one rooted in the philosophy of delivering value to patrons, something that was the benchmark of every ‘I Am Legend’ concert in T&T and certainly countless other events hosted across the region and internationally.
Hands on and meticulous in his approach, Watson prided himself as a no nonsense promoter.
Most recently, in the aftermath of Carnival 2026, he hosted the Majah Hype comedy show, ‘Majah Issues’, at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts, in Trinidad and was preparing for a major concert event in Trinidad, at the time of his passing.
At this time, the bereaved extends gratitude to well- wishers and asks for privacy and understanding as preparations for Watson’s home-going ceremony get underway.
All further details will be relayed at a later time.
“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.
Destra with King David Michael Rudder.
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.
Destra’s daughter, Xaiya on the piano.
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.
error: This content is protected. if you wish to use this content in anyway please contact us.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.