Ebuzz News
Parang Released, Shurwayne Jets Off To Cayman. More On The Way.
Not every Soca artist can say they’re as versatile as Shurwayne Winchester. His vocal range has gotten him into spaces only few have had the opportunity to perform in. This week, he’s in the Cayman Islands, performing at an event dubbed, “Block Party” there. It features internationally acclaimed DJ, Walshy Fire. He’s the only Soca artist on the cast on the Friday night, and he’ll be there delivering that good energy to the people. For this, Shurwayne says he’s grateful.
Shurwayne released a brand new soca parang song last week. It’s called, “Mama This Parang is For You.” The song’s been an instant hit on radio frequencies in Trinidad and Tobago that are known for playing the seasonal music. As the name of the song suggests, the lyrics, penned by the Tobago born entertainer and fellow artiste, Preacher, emphasizes the gratitude felt for what mothers do for their children. In Shurwayne’s case, his relationship with his mom holds great significance. “My mother is my heart. I’m so blessed to have her in my life still. That’s something I’ll never take for granted,” he said.
With major work underway in the studio, Shurwayne’s excited for what’s coming. He says he’s collaborated with a new artiste from across the islands and he can’t wait to unleash the song that he describes as, ‘one for the ladies,’ in the days ahead. “The thing about music is, we have to create songs that last. We can’t simply give the people music that’s just for a season and after that season it’s not worthy of rotation at fetes and on radio,” he said, explaining that it can be a challenge at times but as an artiste who’s been in the game for over two decades, it’s something he’s learned to deal with. “It’s really hard work to come up with a hit song every single season. The best we can do is explore new trends, work with new artistes, keep our ear to the ground and thread the water. I don’t subscribe to being a one dimensional act. If you’re a singer, you can sing anything,” he said excitedly.
In the past, Shurwayne has given music lovers major collaborations with artistes like Busy Signal, Maxi Priest, Christopher Martin and most recently, ahead of Carnival 2023, David Rudder. He says he believes in music’s power to change conditions and mindsets and with that, he plans on continuing to give the world the very best of himself, from a place he knows is true and positive.
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.
Ebuzz News
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