For years, people have been asking for Derek Pereira aka Dawg E. Slaughter, to jump back into the soca arena. The DJ, Songwriter, Producer and Entrepreneur who gave us a unique sound on urban radio with X-Caliber Disco, delivered infectious and popular Soca hits such as “Tik Tok”, “Carnival I Love You” and “Spread The Love” in the 2000’s. He had even toured the world before going AWOL some six years ago. Today however, the former mainstream DJ has released a video for a riddim he produced, a riddim that features the likes of Blaxx, Orlando Octave, Bunji Garlin and boat ride king, mic man Salty who later remixed his track with Fay-Ann Lyons.
Slaughter has re-entered the soca foray.
The “RR Riddim” was born following Slaughter’s pursuit of a degree in Music Technology at the University of Trinidad and Tobago. He graduated in November 2015, having been presented his certificate by the President of Trinidad and Tobago, His Excellency, Anthony Carmona. He defined the moment, “indescribable,” something he probably never envisioned would happen. He had set off to pursue the degree based on his personal desire to contribute meaningfully to the culture of Trinidad and Tobago, and that he did!
Dawg E Slaughter emerged from his hiatus for Carnival 2016, having stepped into the studio, a proud UTT graduate and subsequently delivering, in conjunction with his team, the master production he called the “RR Riddim”. In an interview on local radio station 96.1WEFM in January, the entertainer said the riddim was birthed out of a class assignment taken on. “I really wanted this generation of party-goers to experience what my generation had experienced,” he had stated.
The riddim has fast become one of the most requested across the airwaves this carnival and the artistes on the riddim together with Slaughter, have been mounting numerous fete stages, often called to the fore by Bunji Garlin and the Asylum Vikings.
Slaughter, the man behind XCaliber International, holds the trophy won in the International Soca DJ Competition.
Now, if that hadn’t been enough, on January 29th, Slaughter’s XCaliber International Sound made history on local shores when they walked away champs of the first ever International Soca DJ competition held at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. The competition had brought together, talented DJs from destinations such as Barbados, Puerto Rico, the United States and of course Trinidad and Tobago. T&T’s Jr. Mafia Sound featuring Nigel Snipes & DJ Skull and DJ Kirk Brown from Barbados came in 2nd and 3rd, respectively.
Now being referred to as “Tron”, Slaughter maintains an active social media presence signaling that he just might be sticking around for a while. Next on the agenda, post carnival, according to the man himself, will be the release of the ‘Paradise Riddim’, ‘Heart Break Riddim’ and the ‘Suit Of Black Riddim.’
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.”
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.
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