Archived: Soca Music Makes It To The White House

On Wednesday, June 22, Caribbean soca star, Machel Montano delivered Soca at the White House. His presence at the monumental US building came as officials celebrate the 8th anniversary of June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month.

Trinidad and Tobago soca artiste, Machel Montano

While there was little to no buzz surrounding Montano’s impending appearance at the White House on Wednesday, prior to the occasion, the multiple time Soca Monarch King did in fact participate in a Social Innovation and Impact Investment forum held at the Inter American Development Bank. There was also a White House Community Briefing held at the Old Executive office Building in commemoration of the month long celebration.

In his proclamation this year, US President, Barack Obama stated:

“The dynamism and diversity of Caribbean Americans have contributed to our Nation’s story in extraordinary ways. Millions of people in the United States are connected to our Caribbean neighbors through ties of commerce and family — a relationship reinforced by the values and history we hold in common.  During National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, we celebrate the contributions of our Caribbean-American brothers and sisters, and we reflect on how they have bolstered our country and enriched our traditions.” 

Machel Montano with former dancehall act, Jamaican gospel singer, Marion Hall.

Former Jamaican dancehall artiste, Marion Hall, AKA Lady Saw also delivered an impromptu performance at the White House celebration as did, Trinidadian jazz musician, Etienne Charles. The event also saw Haiti represented by songstress Emeline Michel. On his Instagram page, Machel Montano said:

“Finally made it to the @whitehouse today to represent Soca music! The impact of Caribbean Culture on America.”