Ebuzz News
Real Life Scenario Unfolds. Soca Artist Proposes ‘Party in De Station.’
The steadfast, though sometimes underestimated, are often the ones who leave the most memorable impression. In Trinidad and Tobago, like many parts of the world, there are youths from all walks of life who are pursuing dreams, and even amid a pandemic that has changed the face of the world as we know it, one young artist from East Dry River, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, says his dreams will be realized.
Kibwee is here to change the game, shuffle the cards and assert himself in the music industry, as one of the most talented vocalists and stage performers, Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean, has ever seen. Undaunted by what some may deem, a less than favorable welcome and inclusion in the Soca industry over the past 15 years, Kibwee says now is as good a time as any, to take charge of his destiny.
Armed with a brand new Soca track called, “Station,” the young artist who is no stranger to competitions like the International Soca Monarch and the now defunct, Synergy Soca Star, is on a winning trajectory and he knows it. In fact, his new single comes complete with a story line that many will perhaps find relatable, considering Trinidad and Tobago’s current Covid-19 restrictions.
“Earlier this year, I went to a lime at a housing scheme in Couva. Just about five of us were hanging out and a DJ was in the centre of the field. Other people were there but socially distanced,” said the artist. What he and his friends hadn’t expected however, was the impromptu arrival of the Trinidad and Tobago police who essentially broke up the gathering, citing the pandemic.
Kibwee immediately got the idea to pen the track, saying to himself, “well maybe we should take the party to the station.” He got in studio with WMG Lab Records and together, they concocted a catchy, lyrically entertaining and melodious Soca release that’s as timely as it is enjoyable. “This song was written to help express how we, the fetters, feel about the lockdown,” the artist explained. In the same breath however, he urged folks to be patient and do what is required to get the country back on track, post pandemic.
Versatility in his veins, Kibwee also delivers dancehall and keenly attributes much of his dancehall flavour to the inspiration of Jamaican artist, Vybz Kartel. He however has his eyes set on making waves as far as the mind can perceive and as such, the East Port-of-Spain native intently observes RnB artist, Chris Brown, noting that he is not only exceptional when it comes to his vocals, but he’s a true crowd pleaser on stage. Commenting on the current direction of Soca music, Kibwee says he’s optimistic about the genre and its potential to appeal to a wider audience. “I look at what Voice has been able to do with the lyrics- taking it away from the wine and jam that we are so accustomed to, and it makes me feel good. I know the music will now cross over into a broader market,” he said.
“Station” is now available on all popular streaming platforms and with plans to unleash more music in the weeks and months ahead, this promising youth says his greatest hope at this time, is that the DJs now show him the love, “I’ve sent the song to all of the radio stations so I’m hoping that now, they’ll play the song- give it a chance to be heard by the people, after all, it was created for the people.”
Press Release: ETCETERA THE COMPANY
Caribbean Buzz
Lil’ Bitts Vows Never to Miss de Mas Again as She Prepares for a Jam-packed 2025 Season
After two decades in the business, Lil’ Bitts—aka Shivonne Churche-Isaacs—has made a vow she plans to keep: never again will she sit out Carnival. The multi-talented artiste, known for her infectious energy and stage presence, has had a front-row seat to Trinidad and Tobago’s iconic festival season for years, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing. She still remembers the shock she felt when she made the decision to skip the parades on Carnival Monday and Tuesday one season, only to end up physically sick. “I got sick—like, literally,” she admits. “I’ll never ignore Carnival’s call again.”
This year, Bitts is more than ready to hit the streets with Yuma for an unforgettable Carnival 2025. The excitement is palpable as she gears up for what’s sure to be a thrilling season, both on and off the road.
Rising to the Occasion with “Brighter Days”
With five songs under her belt and a growing social media presence, Lil’ Bitts is enjoying a well-deserved moment in the spotlight. Her Instagram and other platforms have become hubs of interaction with fans, opening doors to new collaborations and promotional opportunities. “Social media is the ultimate artiste toolkit,” she says, urging fellow performers to embrace the digital world to connect with their audiences.
One of her most highly anticipated projects is the track “Brighter Days,” which she says has been in the works for three years. Produced by Gaffa Productions, the song has become a personal passion project. “This one is really special,” she shares. “The world needs positivity right now, and I feel like this song is necessary.” She credits the magic of modern technology for making it all come together, working with talented producers like Stemz, District 6 Studios, and Benje Music in hybrid mode from different locations in the region. She’s also collaborated with M1 on a single called “Wetter” for the 2025 season. “We’ve been talking about working together for years, and I’m so happy it’s finally happened,” she says. “M1’s a unique talent; there aren’t a lot of artistes like him.”
A Dream Come True: Chutney and Multi-Cultural Magic
As if things weren’t busy enough, Lil’ Bitts has recently ventured into the world of chutney music. She got a call from the Pungalunks Factory to contribute vocals for a track with Reshma Ramlal, the Warrior Princess herself. The track, “Poowah Nah Ready,” is a dream come true for Bitts, who has always had an affinity for East Indian culture. “When I was a kid, I loved dressing in Indian clothes and watching Bollywood movies. I knew I wanted to do a Chutney song one day, but it had to feel natural. And this—this feels right,” she said. Bitts reflects on how much she’s learned and appreciated about Trinidad and Tobago’s multicultural beauty through this experience. “The energy on set, the unity—it was amazing. We’re one people, and that’s something I never want to forget.” The collaboration has already earned a place in the spotlight, with Ramlal making it into the semi-finals of the Chutney Soca Monarch competition.
Caribbean Buzz
$1 Million Up for Grabs In New Ultimate Soca Champions Competition.
Trinidad and Tobago is set to stage a revamped International Soca Monarch competition in what is now dubbed The Ultimate Soca Champion competition. The event’s final will be staged on Thursday, February 20th, with the semi final round set for Sunday, February 9th. The announcement was made earlier today by organisers, at a media conference held at Queen’s Hall, Port of Spain.
The organisers said the competition will not be split into Groovy/Power categories, however they said there will be special prizes for Best Groovy Soca, Best Power Soca and People’s Champion, based on public votes.
The event will feature the Ultimate Soca Champion reality TV show which organizers say is aimed at giving viewers an intimate look into the competition. “We believe this will help our culture to reach international audiences when packaged properly,” the team said.
In-Person Auditions will take place on Saturday, January 25th, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Fernando Academy of the Performing Arts (SAPA). Regional/ International Artistes who are not in Trinidad and Tobago, are required to submit video auditions from January 20th at 8:00am to January 26th at 11:59pm.
“We aim to make this a production that captivates
audiences worldwide,” said Rome. “The Ultimate Soca Champion Competition will not only
elevate soca to international standards but also inspire the next generation of artistes.”
For registration, submission guidelines, and updates, visit ultimatesocachampion.com from Monday January 20th, or email ultimatesocachampion@gmail.com.
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