Youth’s on her side and positive energy propels her spirit. Twenty-three year old Phia Smith is a dedicated artiste and performer who hones her craft, delivering RnB, Pop and Soul self-penned songs to the world. She’s gearing up to share her gift with a Trinidad and Tobago audience on May 29th at Queen’s Hall in Port-of-Spain. She hopes her move will inspire other young artistes to step out and pursue their dreams.
Phia’s been in the shadows of bigger artistes like Orlando Octave, who’ve worked with her at PengCo Music. Producer, Randal Alexander has effectively molded the young entertainer’s sound, over the years. “My sound is very unique and I like to think of it as a special sound, considering that I’m not doing the traditional Caribbean genres– soca, calypso, reggae or dancehall,” she says.
Phia is unique and proud of it.
She loves all the Caribbean music genres, but Phia says that from as early as she can remember, she’s been drawn to the international soft sounds of RnB, Soul and Pop. “I felt it was time to create a platform for myself, to showcase my voice and style to those who’ll listen. I’m hoping that the music authorities here in the Caribbean will now see the need to create spaces and opportunities for artistes like me,” she announced, referring to artistes who are untraditional.
Phia’s concert, “Purple Reign,” will double up as an album release concert – the entertainer explaining that her new album and all of the songs on it, will be shared with her Queen’s Hall audience on show night.
HER EXPRESSION
“Royalty is at the core of my expression here, and I’m really hoping that those coming out to the event will grasp my overall effort to have them find their love for music again, fall in love with lyrics that come from the heart- relatable lyrics that almost everyone has experienced, or will likely experience in their lifetime.”
The young entertainer’s album is called “Emotions Aside.” Next week Wednesday – May 29th, she will perform alongside a live band, something she anticipates. “My aim is to show people here at home and internationally, just how much talent there is here in Trinidad and Tobago. We’re so versatile, so creative, and I feel like everyone should hear and see what we have to offer the world.”
Orlando Octave will perform at Purple Reign.
Other artistes billed to grace the stage include Umi Marcano and Orlando Octave– both of whom have collaborated with the young singer, in the past. “I’m very excited to meet and share my love for music with everyone who’ll be at Queen’s Hall. This is something I’ve waited a long time to do and I truly hope it encourages others who have been blessed with the gift of music, to create their own spaces, and opportunities,” said Phia.
For more information on Phia, music lovers are encouraged to visit www.phiazworld.com.
Urban Christian artiste JrDynamite is making a bold declaration of faith with the release of his latest single, “Big and Bold”, a powerful anthem encouraging believers to stand confidently for Christ in an increasingly challenging world.
Recorded on the legendary Hill & Gully Riddim, produced by renowned Jamaican producer Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, the track fuses infectious Caribbean rhythms with a fearless message of conviction, purpose, and unwavering faith.
“Big and Bold” challenges listeners to reject fear, compromise, and silence, while embracing their God-given identity and calling. Through energetic delivery, commanding lyrics, and a memorable hook, JrDynamite reminds believers that faith was never meant to be hidden.
“This song is about being unashamed of who you are in Christ,” says JrDynamite. “In a world where people are constantly pressured to fit in, I wanted to create a song that encourages believers to stand out, stand firm, and represent Jesus with confidence.”
The release arrives at a time when many Christians are navigating cultural pressures and societal expectations. “Big and Bold” serves as both a rallying cry and a source of encouragement, reminding listeners that bold faith can inspire transformation in others.
Known for blending authentic Caribbean sounds with impactful gospel messages, JrDynamite continues to carve out a unique space within the gospel and dancehall landscape. His growing catalogue has consistently showcased his lyrical versatility, energetic performances, and commitment to spreading the Gospel through music.
With the backing of the iconic Hill & Gully Riddim and a message that resonates far beyond the dancefloor, “Big and Bold” is poised to become another standout addition to JrDynamite’s growing catalogue of faith-driven anthems.
With less than a month to go before Kanvas Koncert: Unplugged returns to Sound Forge, Trinidad and Tobago rising sensation, Coutain is giving audiences their first taste of what’s to come with the release of his latest single, Suga Dumplin.
Created alongside producer and longtime collaborator Michael “Tano” Montano, the track explores vulnerability, love and surrender, while offering a glimpse into the evolving sound behind Coutain’s most intimate live experience to date.
Denzil Coutain, professionally known as Coutain.
Coming out of the 2026 Carnival season, Coutain found himself wrestling with writer’s block. After stepping away to reset and recharge, he eventually reconnected with Montano. It was during those early sessions that the foundations of Suga Dumplin began to take shape — a record that explores vulnerability, love and what it takes to make a “badman” fall in love.
Over the years, the two artists have developed a collaborative process rooted in trust, honesty and respect. “We have a natural chemistry,” said Coutain. “When we are creating, we know when a song just isn’t there yet. We leave ego at the door, accept constructive criticism and keep refining until it feels right. We know that if we don’t like it, the people won’t like it either.”
Taking Calypso Forward
Producer Michael “Tano” Montano sees Suga Dumplin as part of a broader effort to carry the spirit of Calypso into a new era, drawing on the music they grew up listening to while making it resonate with younger audiences. “I feel like I’ve been hearing those songs my whole life,” said Montano. “We know what those songs can do and what they’ve done. The task now is making them relatable to younger people in a tasteful way.”
Coutain agrees. “The sound that is being produced now is only an evolution of what has already been heard,” he explained. “This sound is modern yet holds the soul of the old. This sound is new. This sound is what will make people not only fall in love, but dance again.”
That same artistic philosophy will shape Kanvas Koncert: Unplugged, which returns to Sound Forge on Sunday June 28 from 4:00 p.m. Now in its fourth staging following three consecutive sold-out editions, Kanvas has built a reputation for bringing people closer to the music through live performance, storytelling and connection. This year’s show will also feature a lineup of local and regional artists, with additional acts set to be revealed in the lead-up to the event.
Stripped -Back.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the Unplugged theme, Coutain said he has become increasingly drawn to stripped-back performances and reconnecting with the music in a deeper way.“I feel like we don’t always take the time to appreciate the finer details that really make up life. Sometimes less is more and sometimes subtlety speaks volumes,” he said. “This show is about growth, not just within me and my team, but hopefully within the Kommunity as well. After leaving Sound Forge, you should feel like you’ve just attended a family function, connected through music, energy and love.”
Tickets for Kanvas are available via Island E-Tickets.com and at select outlets nationwide, including King Strip Restaurant and New Image Barber Shop (East); 5AM Coffee Shop and The Lost Tribe (West); DFlare Fashions and Lazy Lizard Lounge (Central); Lash’d by Lys and Immersive Tech (South); and Oogy Wawa (Tobago).
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.