Ebuzz News
Archived: National Geographic Shares Trinidad Blue Devils With Millions
National Geographic Travel features T&T’s Carnival on its Instagram feed.
No Bikinis and beads mas for National Geographic Travel- the globally known portal that continues to highlight awesome destinations across the world. Nope. They wanted the underlying truth of T&T’s much touted “Greatest Show On Earth” and in an Instagram feature, the recognised travel voice chose to shine its light on the infamous Blue Devil carnival character- a carnival staple no doubt.
Over eight million people may now get a chance to see, and through Nat Geo’s explanation of what a Blue Devil is, gain clarity on the fictitious Carnival character that has been a part of traditional carnivals in the Caribbean, for decades. Already, the photo posted by the international media house, has amassed over 20 thousand likes, and over 190 comments on the subject had been posted up to the time of this feature by EBUZZTT.
In its explanation, National Geographic Travel writes,“Carnival is not just the bikini and feather displays that most Travel magazines showcase every year. Its origins are much more interesting and raw and often dark. In the #TraditionalMas of #PortofSpain, #Trinidad you will see Bats, Dragons, “Fancy Indians,” #MidnightRobbers, #MokoJumbies, #PierrotGrenade, and in this photo – BLUE DEVILS! The blue devils are the most energetic traditional characters in the Carnival of Trinidad and come out of the tradition of the #JabMolassie, French vernacular for “Molasses Devil.” The jab malassie would carry chains, and wear locks and keys around his waist, and carry a pitch fork. In this case the whole body is smeared with blue paint and the young men wear Wolf masks. The Blue devil “wines” (gyrates) to a beat that is played on tins or pans by his imps. Other devils or imps hold the chains or ropes around their waists, restraining their masked companions as they lunge savagely at the crowd screaming and showing their teeth, thrusting single fingers in the air to express their demand for money, sometimes receiving it with a net.”
Ronnie and Caro are the 2016 Champs of the Road!
True Carnival’s traditions, some say, have been replaced by a bikini and beads culture that has encouraged a lack of appreciation for the authentic Trinbago carnival culture. Two years prior to this year’s festival, pan ensemble, All Stars copped the top position on the masquerade route with their traditional Fancy Sailor presentations in both years. This year however, contributors to the art form, Ronnie and Caro have sealed the deal with their presentation, “Tears Of…” In an online post, Carol Mc Intosh said, “Congrats to our R&C Family. This win is not only ours but to our masqueraders, our committee, friends, sponsors, family- we sincerely thank you.”
Carnival Tribe’s The Lost Tribe came in second while Trini Revellers took the third place spot in the Large band category this year. K2K Alliance emerged victorious in the medium band category with their presentation, “Searching for Shangri-La”, a presentation that boldly fused fashion with mas.
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Caribbean Buzz
Lila Ike Bridges Generations, Gets Nod of Approval from Patra on ‘Romantic’ Remake.
Jamaican reggae singer, Lila Iké embraces confidence on her sultry, new single, “Romantic” which features dancehall artiste, Masicka. The track and its accompanying video arrive alongside the exciting announcement of her highly anticipated debut album, Treasure Self Love, which is set for release on August 22nd.
“Romantic,” hears Ike put a bold, empowering spin on Jamaican dancehall royalty Patra’s 1994 classic “Romantic Call.” The original track, featuring hip-hop icon Yo-Yo, peaked at #55 on the Billboard Hot 100. Now, three decades later, Lila pays homage while making it her own. Patra herself opens and closes the track, blessing it with her own signature style.
Photo: Destinee Condison
The unity between Patra and Lila bridges generations of feminine power.
The song was produced by British-Ghanaian hitmaker Juls—known for work with Wizkid, Lauryn Hill, Burna Boy, and Tyler the Creator—andJamaican producer Dunw3ll. The video was directed by Shane Creative and offers that 90’s nostalgia, with Lila and her leading ladies rocking shimmery, throwback dancehall queen fashion. Modern day dancehall star Masicka jumps in with rapid-fire, flirtatious bars that amplify the chemistry
With “Romantic,” Lila Iké isn’t just revisiting a classic—she’s reinventing it for a new era. “‘Romantic’ is my way of paying homage to dancehall and of course the queens who made space for us — women like Patra, who taught us how to be bold, sensual, and unapologetic. I wanted to tap into that energy, which is very me anyways,” said the artiste.
“Masicka’s verse added that fire and dancehall balance I needed. It’s not just a throwback — it’s a whole new mood! Big up Patra for coming on board as well, that was a full circle moment,” she added.
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