Caribbean Buzz
Shurwayne Says Talent Beats Hype. Artiste Focuses on Legacy.
The age-old adage, ‘talent over hype’ is a point of reference for one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most hard working and dedicated entertainers. From winning major carnival titles to representing Trinidad and Tobago at the World Cup and delivering masterful self-penned songs like ‘Carnival Please Stay’, ‘Band Coming’ and ‘Open De Gate,’ Shurwayne Winchester remains true to self and says no matter what’s happening around him, he is committed to being himself, and doing what he knows is the right thing for him.
In the midst of a short Carnival 2026 season, the artiste who has been a part of the Arima community for many years, says he is excited to once again, deliver one of the Borough’s best carnival fetes- ‘Addiction,’ on February 8th. While the rest of the entertainment fraternity is busy rocking fetes night after night, much like Shurwayne, he’s also been hard at work, building a solid and reputed brand. He believes in his character – and the importance of being an honest human being who places integrity above financial gain. As a direct result, Shurwayne’s event, ‘Addiction’ has adjusted the price of tickets this year to suit the economic times, and further to that, patrons have been offered a second ticket option this year which includes small coolers for their convenience.
Over 20 years in the game, Shurwayne has withstood scrutiny and despite it all, he says he will never compromise himself. In today’s entertainment and marketing landscape where fast talk, likes and social status equates to popularity, and talent I s thrown to the curb in exchange for 20 second TikTok engagement, Shurwayne says now more than ever he stands firm for talent over hype.
“I had to take a look at myself as Shurwayne Winchester – the individual, the man, and then Shurwayne Winchester- the artiste, the brand, and understand what is being asked of me,” he said. “I had to ask myself, ‘what is it I’m willing to give up in exchange for where I want to be, what must I give up to remain relevant in this market space and it all comes down to this – do you want to be a trend? Do you want to believe in your own hype or the hype of other persons around you, or do you want to be an artiste who stands for something?” he rationalized.
Shurwayne has had to revisit this reality countless times throughout his career. A small, close-knit circle of people who he trusts by his side, the Tobago born culture lover says his validation as a great entertainer could never be gained from hype, but rather, longevity and true creativity. “You put in the work, you sweat for it, you are in the pulse of the music, your material has quality and standard – that’s truly how it stands the test of time,” he shared. His perspective on music and artistry, recognition and popularity, fame and bright lights is vastly different from most in the Soca space and he’s fine with that. In fact, Shurwayne says he understands the desire by most, to run after trends. “The hype – you have a large entourage, you’re walking in, people going crazy; or in contrast, you’re walking in by yourself, you’re focused on what you want to do; I’ve never been the former,” he admitted, explaining that he has never wanted to be that person. “I’ve just always wanted to give my fans great music – not for today, but for many years to come.”
Two singles released for Carnival 2026, Shurwayne is humbled by the outpouring of love and support received following the release of the remake of Baron’s ‘Rock It So.’ The video for the collaborative track, which features young, rising Caribbean star, Yung Bredda, has been widely enjoyed across markets. “I will always give my people the best of me, not the hype – the best, not the noise. I must never come across as though I’m better than anybody else. My work must stand out because in the end what counts is the music – the music that represents Trinidad and Tobago, the music that puts us on the map so that when a foreigner decides to take a trip, they want to visit that place that they heard that artiste singing about,” he said.
His Power Soca track, ‘Until the End of the Road,’ is a song he believes has tremendous potential to make fetters move, if given the chance to. Visuals for the high-intensity track immaculately bridge the present-day Trinidad and Tobago, the Carnival experience and humanity, with a futuristic A.I generated concept that’s masterful. “I’m not on the hype. I’m on creativity, longevity and cultural respect,” Shurwayne reiterated, even as he highlighted this piece of creative genius. “I love being who I am. I am not going to change that. My parents said, peace of mind is more valuable than the shiniest penny in your pocket and that peace of mind comes first of all from being God-fearing because only then you’ll understand value.”
After decades in the business, the rag bender, the iron man Shurwayne Winchester remains a force when he takes any stage. His vocal ability, coupled with his knack for engaging audiences and generating memorable experiences in the belly of thick crowds, makes him stand in a category of his own. “There is no reason for me to fear anyone or believe in anything else but hard work, sacrifice and dedication. I believe with that discipline, in the end every goal and desire you have for yourself, will be attained.”
Caribbean Buzz
Times Square, New York, The Place to Be for Caribbean Culture on August 30th.
On August 30th, a major Caribbean event is popping off in the heart of New York. Tropicalfete Inc. is at it again, delivering its 5th annual Caribbean Pop-Up Carnival in Times Square, New York. That’s big deal!
The free, family-friendly event will transform the place that’s often dubbed, the Crossroads of the World, into a vibrant showcase of Caribbean music, dance, and artistic expression. On August 30th, it kicks off at 1pm along Broadway, between W46th and W47th streets. TropicalFete says those coming out are encouraged to wear carnival costumes, wave their national flags, and “celebrate the rich diversity of Caribbean culture.”
The event will be hosted by Vibes Man Redman and Katherine Charles, and will feature an exciting lineup of acclaimed performers, headlined by legendary Billboard chart-topping soca artiste, Rupee.
Rupee made history in late 2004 as the first Barbadian-born artiste, and one of just two soca acts, to reach the Billboard Hot 100 with his global hit, “Tempted to Touch,”which was later Certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. Rupee’s catalogue of soca anthems also includes “Jump,” which has won Road March titles (the song judged to be most popular) at Caribbean carnivals in Boston, Brooklyn, Miami, Toronto, and at Barbados’ Cropover.
The artiste will be honored at the Tropicalfete Pop-Up Carnival by city and state officials for his contributions to Caribbean culture through music and his courageous advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness. During the event, Rupee will receive a Mayoral Certificate of Recognition from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s office. He will also be awarded a Proclamation on behalf of the New York City Council. Additionally, New York State Senators Zellnor Myrie and Roxanne Persaud will present him with a State Proclamation, while Assembly Member Brian Cunningham will recognize him with a New York State Assembly Proclamation.
Tropicalfete’s Pop-Up Carnival’s non-stop entertainment schedule will also include a performance by Mapy, “The Violin Queen.” Born on Réunion Island, raised in Paris and now based in Brooklyn, Mapy delivers electrifying performances that blend classical violin with Caribbean rhythms and hip-hop beats. Her impressive resume includes performances at the Grammy Awards, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and the St. Kitts Music Festival.
Carnival masquerade traditions from all over the Caribbean representing traditional, folkloric, ole (satirical), and pretty mas will also be highlighted.
Tropicalfete Steel Pan Ensemble comes to light up Times Square with an unforgettable set of high-energy. The ensemble will be joining forces with Soca superstar Rupee performing together with one of his songs Give Thanks which is a special treat for the audience. Tropicalfete Stilting Unit and Mas will also be bringing the color, movement, culture, and excitement of Carnival to the heart of New York City.
Attendees can also look forward to a high-energy soca fitness workout with Mandy and a performance by the dynamic rythem Section – Riddim Explosion. DJ Patrick and DJ Eric will provide the recorded musical selections.
The Caribbean Pop-Up Carnival has become one of Tropicalfete’s signature cultural events, attracting thousands of residents, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts each year. Through music, dance, and interactive performances, the event celebrates Caribbean heritage while promoting education and community engagement.
“Tropicalfete’s Caribbean Pop-Up Carnival continues to unite communities by bringing the energy, creativity, and traditions of the Caribbean directly into the heart of New York City,” said Alton Aimable, Executive Director of Tropicalfete. “As we celebrate our fifth year, we invite everyone to experience the sights, sounds, and spirit of Carnival while embracing the diversity that makes our city so unique.
Caribbean Buzz
Aisha Manrique is The Voice of the Caribbean Music Awards.
The stage is being prepared for what is ultimately the most anticipated staging of the Caribbean Music Awards on September 19th, 2026. For the very first time since its inception three years ago, the event moves from New York, to Trinidad and Tobago where superstars from across the Caribbean region and internationally, will gather. It’s a meaningful moment for many people, but one person in particular, feels immensely excited and proud to be at the centre of it all.
Aisha Manrique is the voice of the Caribbean Music Awards. Her tone, expression, sound and articulation, which has narrated the entire show for the past three years, aligns seamlessly with brand Caribbean along with the overall delivery of this powerful celebration of Caribbean creativity and beauty. “I am extremely excited that the Caribbean Music Awards is being held at home in Trinidad and Tobago this year,” said the South, Trinidad native.
Three years ago, Aisha landed the opportunity of a lifetime to become the Voice of God for the Caribbean Music Awards. The former Marketing Officer was essentially screened after a series of meetings and panel interviews, The Caribbean Music Awards would eventually agree to welcoming Trinidad born, Aisha Manrique into the organization. Added to that, the team, after doing their research on Manrique, offered her the opportunity to be the Head Writer for the production. Now in its fourth year, Aisha is the person who writes and narrates the entire production for show night, inclusive of nomination packages, host and presenter scripts and all else. “It’s a lot of work but I am tremendously grateful to be doing what I love,” she expressed.
The 2026 staging of the CMA’S in T&T is a welcomed experience for Aisha. “Having my team with me to be able to prepare in terms of making this moment at home, memorable, is something I’m looking forward to. Every year despite efforts to glam up and be a part of the show with makeup and everything else, I would announce behind the scenes in sneakers and jeans because of the rush as a result of the rigorous production schedule in addition to the intense traffic amid the excitement of Labour Day weekend.”
Manrique says this year she’s looking forward to wearing a gown and getting some photos taken while doing the work that she has dedicatedly done for the past three years, behind the scenes. “I can at least be a part of the glamorous side of things this year,” she laughed.
From San Fernando to the world, Aisha’s journey has been one filled with lessons and testimonies. An entrepreneur now, having answered her life’s calling a few years ago, Aisha says her mother’s insistence on key things, has shaped her path. “As a young child I would envision myself standing in front of thousands and thousands of people and using my voice. My first audience was made up of my uncles and grandmother. I remember my mother waking me up at 5am every morning to work on pronunciation, breathing and posture. Of course, as a child I wasn’t happy about that but now, I appreciate it so much.”
Her mother has since passed away, however Aisha Manrique is inspiring many these days, having been taught the principles of life, focus and dedication, by the woman who was her tower of strength throughout her life.
A Communications and Confidence Strategist, Public Speaking Coach, Copywriter, International Voiceover Talent and Live Announcer, Vocal Health Instructor, Master Storyteller, Aisha Manrique is moving onward with a distinct level of pride in how she serves. Her company, Voicey Versa Productions Ltd. is a Caribbean-based production and training company transforming how individuals and organizations use their voice, communication and stories to make an impact. She trains and coaches professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, public figures, and performers to express and create compelling messages that resonate, convert, and inspire, equipping them with the skills to speak with confidence, clarity and authority. Her mother would be proud.
“My plan for my business is to better position the company as a safe space for persons to use their voices. If there’s someone who just wants to preach a sermon with a message, or if a person wants to post a video on social media and they need more confidence to engage broader audiences, Voicey Versa will be that safe space to learn,” she said, adding, “There are many people walking around with struggles internally and they are being silenced because of self-sabotage, imposter syndrome and negative thinking. I know what that feels like,” she noted.
Crediting several experiences throughout her life for her present success, Aisha says there is immense power in pushing past fear. At 15-years-old she attended the Rotary Leadership Awards Conference, where Secondary schools from across the Caribbean were represented by students. It was during that experience that her fear would be counteracted, having stood up when others did not, having been called upon to respond by one of the event’s sponsors, Percy Parker Williams. “He gave me a challenge to come up with a concept for an ad- a men’s cologne. He said he would give me 15 minutes. I said I just needed 1 minute and the whole auditorium erupted,” she recalls. “I created an ad and delivered in a seductive, female voice right there on the spot. The crowd cheered me on and Mr. Parker said I had something special. He awarded me a scholarship to pursue broadcasting and I’ve never looked back,” said Aisha.
There are many testimonies of her journey’s alignment to her gift and natural calling, but for Aisha Manrique, her life’s work is enshrined in God’s grace, having continued to use her gift to the service of others in her life. On September 19th, as Caribbean artistes and other creatives enjoy the fruit of their hard work and creativity in Port-of-Spain, her voice will tell the world at large, just how special they are.
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