One music producer in Trinidad and Tobago is calling on all artistes to create more meaningful music. He’s however advocating for positive content and says the time has come to counteract the negative as much as possible.
Khadeem Edwards is the man formerly known as Twin Island Studio, but he switched gears around 2023, after what he describes as a rebirth. He now runs Xklusiv Music Productions and earlier this year, saw the success of his Relief Riddim- a project that featured the likes of Skinny Fabulous, Rae, Dev and Mr. Lee. In the aftermath of that, he’s pushing more positive energy with a new project called, The Only 1 Riddim, and this time he has worked with several talented artistes, among them, Christo and Island Boy Preedy.
Producer, Khadeem Edwards
For Edwards, the mission of creating music is one that’s as important as it is necessary. He firmly believes that music’s influence can be uplifting or damaging, and because of that belief, he is advocating for change. “As a producer, I know that my work influences people. Because of that, I’ve made the conscious decision to work on this particular project with the intention to influence people positively,” said Edwards. The Only 1 Riddim is a fusion of Afrobeats, R&B and Soul music. By its acoustic nature, the production demands lyrics that are soulful, sweet and life-giving. “We were given emotions, and music plays with these emotions. If you have an aggressive style of music and you consume that frequently, that aggression will begin to develop in you as a person. For this riddim, I’ve incorporated Afrobeats so we can still dance, but the harmonies deliver on the typical R&B and Soul sounds.”
The release of the songs on The Only 1 Riddim coincided with the celebration of Mother’s Day. Edwards explained that each song is meant to stir something inside the soul of the listener and engage them in a way that promotes love. “I think it’s important for listeners to be offered a choice when it comes to music. There’s a great opportunity for our artistes to bring forward more music that counteracts the negative, and I think the onus is on the people who hold the power to promote positive music, to do just that,” said Edwards. His expression comes in the aftermath of several incidents of violence in Trinidad and Tobago in recent weeks, which have been linked to gang warfare. Many across society have argued that music which perpetuates criminality plays a powerful role in the end result that often spikes the murder toll.
LFS Music returns to the music scene with ‘Sweet Love.’
Artiste support weighs heavily on the overall thrust to deliver music that’s needed for a better outcome in today’s society. Edwards says between the marketing and promotional efforts and the consumer’s reaction to the music, a lot can happen. “Delivering music takes a big toll on all artistes as well as the producer. Marketing costs and all other associated costs are heavy. What’s sad is that after all those expenses, the consumer hardly ever makes a purchase. They rip pirated versions or stream for free. A song is 99 cents on iTunes. When you pay for the music, you feed the artiste and the producer. We need more people to buy the music and support our artistes,” he urged.
A single acceptance of a new life by Khadeem Edwards a few years ago altered his life’s direction. “I accepted Jesus Christ. I wasn’t perfect and I’m still not perfect, but I’m working towards perfection, being a better person, and I believe any artiste, any person, can do the same,” he said. He hopes The Only 1 Riddim will decrease the sense of urgency presently consuming many across the world. “My hope for this project is for all of us to really slow down. The world is moving really fast and we need to slow down and appreciate the people who truly matter. The songs on this riddim express that. I believe that if we listen to this style of music, we’ll slow down, reminisce, capture a vibe of love and appreciation for the people we love, and return to tenderness and vulnerability.”
Brooklyn based artiste, Maki is also apart of the new project.
Plans are afoot to generate more music that promotes the positives of life. Edwards and his team at Xklusiv Music Productions are answering a call that runs deeper than the eye can see. “The bonus track on this riddim will be a gospel single and in that song, The Only 1 will ultimately be God. I’m pleased to be doing this and I hope that its value will be appreciated.”
The artistes on The Only 1 Riddim are Christo with “Woman,” Maki who delivers “D Only One,” Preedy who sings “Fight No More,” Mr. Lee with “Take Care,” Temisha from the US Virgin Islands, who sings “Paradise,” and LFS Music returns with “Sweet Love.”
The vibrant sounds of classic dancehall and contemporary reggaeton collide on “De Shot Call (Remix),” a dynamic new collaboration from Trinidad and Tobago recording artist General Grant and versatile entertainer Mr. Renzo.
.Designed to ignite dancefloors while honoring the rich musical heritage of the Caribbean, the track blends the raw, energetic spirit of early 1990s dancehall with the infectious grooves and global appeal of modern reggaeton. The result is a high-energy anthem that bridges generations, cultures, and musical styles.
Inspired by the golden era of dancehall that helped shape Caribbean music culture, “De Shot Call (Remix)” reimagines that signature sound through a contemporary lens. The production delivers nostalgic undertones while embracing the polished rhythms and vibrant energy that resonate with today’s audiences.
For General Grant, the project continues his commitment to preserving and evolving authentic Caribbean music. Widely respected for his contributions to the dancehall and reggae landscape, he brings his signature delivery and commanding presence to the remix, reinforcing the song’s connection to the genre’s roots.
Joining him is Mr. Renzo, a singer, songwriter, and entertainer whose career spans more than two decades. Recognized for his ability to blend Caribbean, Latin, pop, and urban influences, Mr Renzo adds a fresh and modern dimension to the track, helping to create a sound that transcends borders and appeals to a broad international audience.
Together, the two artists showcase how Caribbean music continues to evolve while remaining grounded in its traditions. “De Shot Call (Remix)” serves as a celebration of that journey, highlighting the seamless transition from dancehall’s formative years to Reggaeton’s current global prominence.
The single was executive produced by Lawrence Adams – Mr. Renzo, who also co-wrote the track alongside Curtis Grant – General Grant. Recording and editing duties were handled by Stephon Gabriel, while engineer Ovy Thouni delivered the song’s polished mix and master.
With its infectious rhythm, energetic performances, and cross-generational appeal, “De Shot Call (Remix)” is positioned to become a favourite among fans of Caribbean music and lovers of dancefloor-ready hits alike.
Whether you’re a longtime dancehall enthusiast or a fan of today’s reggaeton movement, this collaboration offers the perfect soundtrack to turn up the volume and celebrate the enduring influence of Caribbean music.
“De Shot Call (Remix)” is now available for audiences ready to experience the fusion of old-school dancehall energy and modern reggaeton flavor.
A riddim built on pure Jamaican nostalgia that’s dominating with several acclaimed artistes releasing hit singles, the ‘Hill And’ Gully’ folk riddim is undeniably a major influencer this year. Like butter, several releases smoothly resonate, with artistes like Masicka, Mr. Vegas, Kees Dieffenthaller, Valiant, Elephant Man and Sheneil Muir delivering catchy singles for the masses.
Outside of multiple releases produced by Jamaican DJ/ Singer/ Songwriter/ Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor, Trinidad and Tobago artiste, Anisha, has risen to the occasion, urging social transformation using her creativity as the vessel. “Plea for Peace is meant to uplift communities and spark conversation because I believe music can preserve tradition, while creating space for meaningful dialogue,” said the Belmont,Trinidad native.
Known in creative spaces as The Goddess of Love, Anisha was raised in Belle-Eau Road in Belmont. She understands the need for thought provoking messages through music. “I compose my own songs and I’ve been involved in music for several years,” she said, explaining that she uses music as a tool to express herself, tell stories and tap into her emotions while addressing issues that affect communities.
For Anisha, the Hill and Gully Riddim offers music lovers a timeless cultural connection. “I felt it was a riddim that could help carry this message of peace to both the young and the old in a way that’s relatable and impactful,” said the singer. Acknowledging the criticism by veteran Jamaican broadcaster, Fae Ellington over some of the lyrics sung by artistes on the traditional folk riddim, Anisha says she respects Ms. Ellington’s perspective. “I respect her perspective because cultural and musical traditions are important and should always be valued.” She however admits that music continues to evolve as a reflection of society. “Each artiste chooses to use music to express himself/herself based on personal experience, however my approach with ‘Plea for Peace,’ was to honor the riddim’s cultural significance by using it to address an issue that is affecting my country, Trinidad and Tobago.”
The song was born out of Anisha’s concern for the people of T&T. “It’s really a mixture of concern, frustration and hope. This song addresses the growing impact that crime and violence continues to have on families, communities and the youth,” she declared, adding that it serves as a heartfelt appeal for the population to reflect on what society has become, while establishing a blueprint for a better future. “If this song encourages even one young person to choose a different path, or reminds communities that love, respect and unity still matter, then I’d consider it a success,” she said.
Anisha says she admires the dedication to peace, shown by fellow T&T artiste, Orlando Octave. “We share a similar passion for spreading positive messages through music. I often refer to him as ‘The Prince of Peace,” she said, noting that she would be honored to work with Orlando, if the opportunity presents itself. “My mission as an artiste is to use my music as a bridge that brings people together, rather than divides humanity. ‘Plea for Peace is more than just a song. It’s a reminder that despite the challenges we face, peace, love and unity are still very possible if we choose to lift each other up.”
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